These cookies are not just a feast for the taste buds; they are a visual delight, with their vibrant red hue making them a showstopper on any dessert table. Each time I bake them, the aroma fills my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. If you’re looking to impress your family or simply indulge in a sweet moment, these Red Velvet Nutella Cookies are the answer!
What is Red Velvet Nutella Cookies?
Red Velvet Nutella Cookies are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: the classic red velvet cake and the irresistible hazelnut spread, Nutella. This innovative recipe draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the Southern United States, where red velvet desserts have long been a symbol of celebration and indulgence. The vibrant red color, often achieved through food coloring, not only makes these cookies visually striking but also adds a playful twist to the traditional cookie experience.
The origins of red velvet cake can be traced back to the early 20th century, with its roots deeply embedded in American baking culture. It was initially popularized by its unique flavor profile, which combines a subtle cocoa taste with a hint of tanginess from buttermilk. By incorporating Nutella into the center of these cookies, I’ve created a modern take that enhances the original flavor while adding a creamy, chocolatey surprise that melts in your mouth.
As I bake these cookies, I’m reminded of the joy of sharing sweet treats with family and friends. The combination of textures—the soft, chewy exterior and the gooey Nutella center—creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please any palate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, Red Velvet Nutella Cookies are a delicious way to bring a touch of joy and warmth to your kitchen.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa and creamy Nutella creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these cookies fit perfectly into your busy schedule, making them a go-to treat for any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these cookies, making them a hit at family gatherings or after-school snacks.
- Visually Stunning: The vibrant red color makes these cookies a showstopper, perfect for celebrations or holiday treats.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings, allowing you to make each batch uniquely yours!
Who It’s For
These Red Velvet Nutella Cookies are perfect for busy families looking to whip up a quick dessert that everyone will love. They appeal to health-conscious cooks who appreciate the balance of indulgence and comfort. Food lovers who enjoy exploring globally inspired recipes will find this delightful twist on a classic irresistible!
When to Cook It
These cookies are ideal for a variety of occasions! Bake them for weeknight dinners when you want to treat your family to something special. They’re also perfect for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. And let’s not forget about cozy nights in, where a warm cookie and a glass of milk can make any evening feel like a celebration!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cookies. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor. Dark cocoa powder can enhance the taste even further.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides moisture and richness. You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together. A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) can be used as a vegan substitute.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor. Feel free to use almond extract for a different twist.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the cookies their signature color. You can use natural beet juice for a healthier alternative.
- 1/2 cup Nutella: The star of the show! This creamy hazelnut spread adds a delicious surprise in the center.
- Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Cream butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until fully incorporated.
- Combine mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Prepare the cookies: Once chilled, scoop out a tablespoon of dough, flatten it slightly, and place a teaspoon of Nutella in the center.
- Wrap and roll: Carefully wrap the dough around the Nutella and roll it into a ball, ensuring the Nutella is completely enclosed.
- Bake: Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
If you’re looking for sugar substitutes, consider using stevia, monk fruit, erythritol, or allulose. These options provide sweetness without the same impact on blood sugar levels. However, it’s best to avoid honey or maple syrup, as they can still raise blood sugar significantly.
- Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes is essential for combining ingredients. If you don’t have mixing bowls, any large, deep dish will work.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients and creaming butter and sugar. A fork can be a handy substitute in a pinch!
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success. If you don’t have these, use a standard coffee mug or a tablespoon from your kitchen.
- Baking Sheet: A flat surface for baking your cookies. If you don’t have one, a large oven-safe dish can serve the same purpose.
- Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. If you’re out, greasing the baking sheet with butter or oil will do the trick.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon: For portioning out the dough. A regular tablespoon can work just as well for scooping.
- Cooling Rack: Ideal for letting your cookies cool evenly. If you don’t have one, a plate or cutting board can suffice.
When it comes to baking the perfect Red Velvet Nutella Cookies, a few chef-approved tips can elevate your cookie game to new heights. Here are some insights from culinary experts that I’ve found particularly helpful:
- Use Quality Ingredients: Renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel emphasizes the importance of using high-quality cocoa powder and fresh ingredients. This ensures that your cookies not only taste better but also have a richer color and texture.
- Chill Your Dough: Chef Alton Brown suggests chilling cookie dough before baking. This step not only helps prevent spreading but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Experiment with Fillings: Celebrity chef Ina Garten encourages creativity in the kitchen. While Nutella is a fantastic choice, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking or swapping in different fillings like peanut butter or caramel for a unique twist.
- Don’t Overbake: According to baking expert Rose Levy Beranbaum, the key to soft, chewy cookies is to take them out of the oven when they still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet, resulting in a perfect texture.
- Let Them Rest: Chef Thomas Keller recommends allowing cookies to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps them set properly and enhances the overall flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
By incorporating these tips from well-known chefs, you’ll not only impress your family and friends but also create Red Velvet Nutella Cookies that are truly unforgettable!
To keep your Red Velvet Nutella Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Here are some practical tips for storing and reheating these delightful treats:
Storing Your Cookies
- Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy your cookies within a week, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them soft and chewy.
- Refrigerator: For longer freshness, you can store the cookies in the fridge. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. They can last up to two weeks this way.
- Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the cookies! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to three months.
Reheating Your Cookies
- Microwave: For a quick fix, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm it up and make the Nutella center gooey again!
- Oven: For a more even reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
By following these storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Red Velvet Nutella Cookies at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or after a little time in the fridge or freezer!
- Skipping the Chilling Step: One of the most common mistakes is not chilling the dough. This crucial step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they maintain their shape and chewy texture.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated for the best results.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are key. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re adding the right amounts of each ingredient for perfect cookies.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Taking them out when they still look slightly underbaked will result in a soft, chewy texture. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Using Old Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients, especially baking soda and cocoa powder. Expired ingredients can affect the rise and flavor of your cookies.
Q: Can I make Red Velvet Nutella Cookies without food coloring?
Yes, you can! While the food coloring gives these cookies their signature red hue, you can omit it for a more traditional chocolate cookie. The flavor will still be delicious!
Q: Are Red Velvet Nutella Cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these cookies are vegetarian-friendly as they do not contain any meat or fish products. However, they do contain eggs and dairy, so they are not vegan.
Q: Can I freeze Red Velvet Nutella Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Q: Do Red Velvet Nutella Cookies need to be refrigerated?
It depends. If you plan to eat them within a week, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigerate them.
Q: Can I substitute Nutella with another filling?
Yes, you can! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like peanut butter, caramel, or even cream cheese for a unique twist on these Red Velvet Nutella Cookies.
As I reflect on my journey of baking these Red Velvet Nutella Cookies, I’m filled with warmth and joy. Each cookie is not just a treat; it’s a memory waiting to be made, a moment to share with loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful combination of flavors and textures for yourself. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. I’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you add to the recipe—feel free to comment below and share your baking adventures!
Print
Red Velvet Nutella Cookies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously soft and chewy red velvet cookies filled with creamy Nutella.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1/2 cup Nutella
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, scoop out dough and flatten it slightly, placing a teaspoon of Nutella in the center.
- Wrap the dough around the Nutella and roll into a ball.
- Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
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Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
- Make sure to chill the dough to prevent spreading.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Red Velvet Nutella Cookies
