Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies -

When you think of cookies, the combination of Nutella, hazelnuts, and sea salt might not be the first that comes to mind, but it's one that's worth considering. You'll find that the creamy richness of Nutella pairs beautifully with the crunch of hazelnuts, while a touch of sea salt elevates the flavor profile to something truly special. If you're curious about how to make these cookies and what tips can enhance your baking experience, you might be surprised by the simple steps and secret ingredients that can transform your kitchen.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies combine rich Nutella with crunchy hazelnuts and a sprinkle of sea salt for enhanced flavor.
Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix creamed butter, sugars, egg, and Nutella, then fold in pre-mixed dry ingredients for a velvety cookie texture.
Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes, adjusting time for desired chewiness or crispiness, and let them cool before enjoying.
Hazelnuts offer health benefits such as healthy fats and antioxidants, making these cookies a more nutritious indulgence when enjoyed in moderation.

History

When you bite into a Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookie, you're not just enjoying a delicious treat; you're also experiencing a blend of culinary history. Did you know that Nutella has Italian roots? It was first created in the 1940s by Pietro Ferrero, a pastry maker who wanted to stretch chocolate supplies after World War II.

He mixed hazelnuts with chocolate, and voilà—Nutella was born! This creamy spread quickly became a sensation, and now you see it everywhere, from breakfast tables to fancy desserts.

Now, let's talk about those sea salt cookies. Salt has been used in baking for centuries, enhancing flavors and creating balance. The combination of sweet Nutella and a sprinkle of sea salt has become a beloved trend, making your cookie experience even more exciting.

It's like a little party for your taste buds!

Recipe

Indulge your taste buds with these delightful Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies, a perfect treat for any occasion. Combining the rich, creamy flavor of Nutella with the crunch of hazelnuts and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a unique balance of sweetness and savory notes.

These cookies can be enhanced with a drizzle of infused oil, like Crisp Pear Ginger Oil Infusion, which adds a subtle complexity to the flavors. Whether you're baking for a special event or just for a cozy night in, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for more.

Baking these cookies isn't only simple but also a fun way to spend time in the kitchen. With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can create a batch of warm, gooey cookies that fill the air with an irresistible aroma.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), as this is vital for achieving the perfect cookie texture. Think of it as warming up your kitchen for a delicious cookie party!

While the oven heats up, you can gather your ingredients and get ready for some fun. This step might seem simple, but trust me, it's important. A well-preheated oven guarantees that your cookies bake evenly, giving you that delightful crispy edge with a soft center.

As you wait, maybe dance a little or hum your favorite baking tune—after all, baking should be enjoyable! Once your oven reaches the right temperature, you'll be ready to mix your ingredients, and the magic will truly begin.

Don't forget to prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper while your oven works its magic. This little trick helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Plus, who wants to deal with a sticky mess when you can be enjoying warm cookies instead? So, get that oven humming, and let's get ready to create some amazing Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies that'll have everyone asking for seconds!

Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients Together

To guarantee your cookies have the right texture and flavor, mix the dry ingredients together in a separate bowl. This step is super important, so don't skip it! Grab your flour, baking soda, and sea salt, and whisk them together until everything's nicely blended.

You want to break up any lumps and make sure those flavors are evenly distributed, trust me, it makes a difference. As you whisk, take a moment to appreciate the smell of the flour and salt—it's like a little reminder that something delicious is on the way!

If you're feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped hazelnuts at this stage. They'll add a lovely crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy Nutella later.

Once you've got your dry ingredients happily mixed, set them aside for a bit. This is your secret weapon for creating those perfectly chewy cookies we all crave.

Plus, it gives you a chance to admire your bowl of dry goodness before you bring everything together. So, take a deep breath and get ready for the next step—it's almost cookie time! Happy baking!

Step 3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it's time to combine your wet and dry ingredients for the Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies. Grab that mixing bowl with your creamed butter and sugars, and let's make some magic!

You've already added the egg and vanilla extract, right? Great! Now, slowly stir in the Nutella. It's going to get all velvety and chocolatey—yum!

Once that's well mixed, it's time to bring in the dry ingredients. Take your bowl of flour, baking soda, and sea salt, and gradually mix it into the wet stuff. Just fold it in until it's combined; you don't want to overdo it.

If you're feeling adventurous and want a little extra crunch, toss in those chopped hazelnuts now.

Picture this: you're in your kitchen, surrounded by the sweet aroma of Nutella, and you can almost taste the cookies before they even hit the oven!

It's a delightful moment, isn't it? So, embrace that excitement, because you're one step closer to cookie heaven. Trust me, the combination of flavors will be worth every stir!

Step 4. Scoop Dough Onto Baking Sheet

With a trusty cookie scoop or a tablespoon in hand, it's time to portion out your dough onto the prepared baking sheet. This is where the magic starts!

Take a scoop of that irresistible Nutella dough, and let it fall gently onto the sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Remember, cookies need their space to spread out and get that perfect golden edge. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even flatten the dough slightly with your palm.

As you work, you'll start to feel that excitement build—just envision how delicious these cookies are going to be!

Don't forget to sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each scoop before they hit the oven. That little bit of salt is like a secret handshake between flavors—trust me, it'll take these cookies to the next level!

If you find some dough sticking to your scoop, a quick dip in warm water can help.

Keep scooping until the baking sheet is filled, and your kitchen is filled with that sweet Nutella aroma. You're just a few steps away from cookie heaven!

Step 5. Bake for 10-12 Minutes

After you've scooped the dough onto the baking sheet and sprinkled that pinch of sea salt on top, it's time to pop them in the oven. This is where the magic happens! Set your timer for 10 to 12 minutes, depending on how chewy or crispy you like your cookies.

As they bake, you'll start to smell that heavenly Nutella aroma wafting through your kitchen, and trust me, it's hard to resist sneaking a taste!

When the timer goes off, take a peek. The edges should be golden brown, while the centers remain soft and gooey. If they look a bit too soft, don't worry; they'll firm up as they cool.

Let them chill on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is essential; it allows them to set just right, so they won't crumble apart when you dig in. Plus, waiting just adds to the anticipation, right?

Now, grab a glass of milk or a cup of coffee, and enjoy these delightful cookies. You've earned it! Each bite is pure bliss, with that perfect blend of sweetness and a touch of salty goodness. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making This Recipe

To elevate your Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies, keep a few pro tips in mind. First, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature—this helps create that dreamy, creamy texture when you mix it. You'll want to whip it up with the sugars until it's light and fluffy, almost like a cloud!

For an extra layer of flavor, you might consider incorporating a drizzle of nutty hazelnut coffee oil infusion into the dough, which can add a delightful richness to your cookies. Also, don't skip the sea salt on top; it's the little sprinkle that takes these cookies from good to absolutely amazing.

If you're feeling adventurous, try tossing in some chocolate chips or different nuts—pecans or walnuts could be great substitutes for hazelnuts. For an extra indulgent treat, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

And remember, don't overbake! Keep an eye on those edges; they should be golden brown while the centers stay soft and chewy. Once they're done, let them cool for a short while on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack.

Health Benefits

Nutella Hazelnut & Sea Salt Cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer some surprising health benefits. First off, hazelnuts are packed with nutrients like healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. These little powerhouses can help improve your heart health and lower bad cholesterol levels. Plus, they're a great source of antioxidants, which can keep your body feeling youthful and energized.

Additionally, incorporating flavors like those found in Sweet Maple Pecan Pie Spice Tincture can elevate your cookie experience while providing added health benefits from spices and nuts.

And let's not forget about Nutella! While it's a sweet treat, it also contains hazelnuts, which means you're getting some of those benefits too. When you enjoy these cookies, you're indulging in a delightful blend of flavors while reaping the rewards of wholesome ingredients.

Now, I know what you're thinking—cookies are a guilty pleasure, right? Well, moderation is key! Having one or two of these cookies can satisfy your cravings without entirely derailing your healthy eating habits.