Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars combine the beloved flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the creamy, indulgent goodness of Nutella. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering, a festive celebration, or simply a special snack for yourself. The combination of warm, gooey Nutella and soft, chewy cookies creates a comforting dessert that is hard to resist. Get ready to dive into the deliciousness and bring a smile to your face as you enjoy these delightful bars.
Why We Love This Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
There are countless reasons to adore Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars. First and foremost is the irresistible flavor combination. The rich chocolate chip cookies, with their buttery goodness, pair beautifully with the sweet, nutty taste of Nutella. Each bite offers a perfect blend of textures, with the crispy edges giving way to a soft and chewy center. Additionally, these bars are incredibly easy to make. Unlike traditional cookies, you don’t need to scoop individual portions; simply spread, layer, and bake. They also lend themselves well to sharing, making them perfect for gatherings. Finally, these bars can be made ahead of time and eaten throughout the week, offering a quick and satisfying treat that always satisfies a sweet tooth.
Ingredients for Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup Nutella
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs to the mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until there are no dry spots. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Take about two-thirds of the cookie dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even layer.
- Spoon the Nutella over the cookie dough, spreading it gently but evenly.
- Add the remaining cookie dough over the Nutella layer, using your fingers to stretch it out and cover as much as possible.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy the warm, indulgent treats!
How to Serve Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
When it comes to serving Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars, the options are endless. You can enjoy them warm right out of the oven, where the Nutella flows like a rich sauce and the chocolate chips melt into gooey perfection. Pair these bars with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast of temperatures. For a little extra flair, drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top before serving. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. These cookie bars shine as a sweet ending to a dinner party or can be served in lunchboxes as a fun treat for kids. Additionally, they pair wonderfully with a hot beverage, making them an excellent choice for a cozy afternoon snack while you curl up with a good book.
Expert Tips for Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
To achieve the best results with your Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars, consider a few expert tips. First, use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, as this helps the dough combine smoothly and evenly. When mixing the ingredients, avoid overmixing, which can make the cookies tough. A gentle fold is enough to incorporate the dry ingredients. To enhance the flavors, you can add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking. This little touch balances the sweetness beautifully. Also, when spreading Nutella, do it gently and avoid applying too much pressure, as you want to maintain the layers of cookie dough. Don’t forget the importance of letting the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. This allows them to set properly, making the bars easier to cut and serve. Lastly, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or mix-ins like nuts for a little crunch.
How to Store Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Storing your Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars correctly can help maintain their texture and flavor. Once the bars have cooled, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. You can separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store the container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks. Make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for that freshly baked taste. If you have leftovers, they can also be frozen. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Variations of Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Experimenting with variations can add a fun twist to Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars. One delightful option is to incorporate crushed nuts, such as hazelnuts or walnuts, into the dough for added texture and flavor. You can also swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. For a fruity touch, try adding a layer of sliced strawberries or bananas over the Nutella before covering it with cookie dough. This addition brings a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using flavored Nutella like hazelnut or almond for a unique taste experience. Another fun variation is to sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or espresso powder into the dough to enhance the chocolate flavor. Lastly, you could drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars after baking for an extra indulgent finish.
FAQ about Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
What makes Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars so special?
The combination of rich chocolate chip cookies with creamy Nutella creates a delicious contrast of textures and flavors that is hard to resist.
Can I substitute other spreads for Nutella in the cookie bars?
Absolutely! You can try using other chocolate spreads or nut butters if you want a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
Check for golden brown edges and insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Are these cookie bars suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie bars wrapped in plastic and stored in an airtight container for up to three months.
What can I serve with Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, coffee, or a glass of milk.
How long do Nutella stuffed chocolate chip cookie bars last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Cookie Base Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use room temperature butter for best results.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs Use room temperature eggs.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Nutella Layer
- 1 cup Nutella
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a small bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs to the mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until there are no dry spots. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Assembly and Baking
- Take about two-thirds of the cookie dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even layer.
- Spoon the Nutella over the cookie dough, spreading it gently but evenly.
- Add the remaining cookie dough over the Nutella layer, using your fingers to stretch it out and cover as much as possible.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. Enjoy the warm, indulgent treats!
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