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There’s something magical about the holiday season, and nothing captures that magic quite like a batch of freshly baked Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies. These delightful holiday cookies combine the rich, creamy goodness of Nutella with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, all wrapped up in a buttery, powdered sugar-coated exterior. If you’ve been searching for the perfect snowball cookies recipe, look no further. This guide will walk you through every step of making these irresistible treats. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find this guide filled with easy cookie recipes, baking tips, and variations that will make your holiday baking a breeze.

Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion, especially during the festive season. Imagine biting into a soft, crumbly cookie, only to discover a gooey Nutella center that melts in your mouth. The combination of the rich hazelnut flavor and the sweet, creamy Nutella is simply heavenly. These cookies are perfect for Christmas gatherings, holiday cookie exchanges, or simply as a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies that will impress your family and friends.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies. We’ll start with a detailed ingredient list, followed by step-by-step recipe instructions. You’ll also find tips for perfect snowball cookies, variations and substitutions to suit your preferences, and storing and serving suggestions. To top it off, we’ve included a FAQs section to address any common questions you might have. So, let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Ingredients Needed for Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Before you begin baking, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you’ll need for these delightful Nutella cookies. Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients for making Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies:

• 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of finely chopped hazelnuts
• 1 cup of Nutella
• Extra powdered sugar for rolling the cookies

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the perfect snowball cookies. The butter provides a rich, buttery flavor, while the powdered sugar adds sweetness and a delicate texture. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, and all-purpose flour forms the base of the dough. Salt helps to balance the sweetness, and hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Of course, the star of the show is Nutella, which creates a gooey, chocolatey center that will leave you craving more.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies:

Preparing the Dough

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.

Step 2: Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms. The dough should be soft and slightly crumbly.

Step 4: Fold in the finely chopped hazelnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shaping the Cookies

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 6: Take a tablespoon of dough and flatten it into a small disc in your hand. Place a teaspoon of Nutella in the center of the disc.

Step 7: Carefully wrap the dough around the Nutella, rolling it into a ball to completely encase the filling. Place the ball on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Repeat this process with the remaining dough and Nutella, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.

Baking the Cookies

Step 9: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should still be pale in color.

Step 10: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Once the cookies are completely cooled, roll them in powdered sugar to coat them generously. This gives the cookies their signature snowball appearance.

Tips for Perfect Snowball Cookies

Baking the perfect Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies requires a few tips and tricks to ensure success. Here are some helpful baking tips to achieve the best results:

• Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter will cream better with the powdered sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy dough.
• Chill the dough if it becomes too soft to handle. This will make it easier to shape the cookies and prevent them from spreading too much during baking.
• Use a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough evenly. This ensures that all your cookies are the same size and bake uniformly.
• Be gentle when rolling the cookies in powdered sugar. If the cookies are too warm, the sugar may melt and create a sticky coating. Let the cookies cool completely before rolling.
• For an extra burst of flavor, toast the hazelnuts before chopping them. This enhances their natural nuttiness and adds a delicious depth of flavor to the cookies.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations and substitutions to consider:

• For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
• If you’re allergic to hazelnuts, you can use other nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Each type of nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the cookies.
• For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter substitute. Look for one that has a similar fat content to regular butter to ensure the best results.
• If you’re not a fan of Nutella, you can fill the cookies with other spreads such as peanut butter, almond butter, or even caramel. The possibilities are endless!
• For a festive twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. This will give the cookies a warm, holiday flavor that’s perfect for Christmas cookies.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later enjoyment. Here are some tips for storing and serving your cookies:

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.
• If you want to enjoy the cookies for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months.
• To serve, let the cookies come to room temperature before enjoying. You can also give them a fresh dusting of powdered sugar if needed.
• These cookies make a wonderful gift for friends and family. Package them in a festive tin or box, and add a ribbon or bow for a special touch.
• Pair the cookies with a hot beverage such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a delightful treat. The combination of the rich, nutty cookies and a warm drink is simply irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Nutella-Stuffed Hazelnut Snowball Cookies ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and shape the cookies, then freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookies on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I use a different filling instead of Nutella?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Nutella or want to try something different, you can use other fillings such as peanut butter, almond butter, or caramel. Just make sure the filling is not too runny, as it may leak out during baking.

What can I do if the dough is too crumbly?

If the dough is too crumbly and difficult to work with, try adding a teaspoon of milk or water at a time until it comes together. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, make sure to chill the dough before shaping the cookies. You can also refrigerate the shaped cookies for 15-20 minutes before baking. This will help the dough firm up and hold its shape during baking.

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