What are Nutella lava cookies and what makes them special?

Nutella lava cookies are chocolate cookies filled with a gooey, melted Nutella center that flows out like lava when broken. They combine the texture of a fudgy chocolate cookie with a warm, creamy Nutella filling, giving a rich, chocolaty taste experience. The cookies have crackled tops, crisp edges, and chewy centers, making them a popular treat for Nutella lovers looking for a warm, indulgent dessert.

How do I freeze Nutella lava cookies before baking?

To freeze Nutella lava cookies, first scoop balls of Nutella and freeze them solid on a parchment-lined tray. Then, portion the chocolate cookie dough, flatten it, and wrap each frozen Nutella ball inside, forming dough balls. Place these stuffed cookie balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a sealed container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 325°F for 10-12 minutes without thawing.

Can I substitute ingredients like eggs, cocoa powder, or Nutella in the recipe?

Yes, flax seeds mixed with water can replace eggs as a vegan option. You can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa for a different chocolate flavor. Substituting cocoa powder with flour will create a lighter-colored cookie with a dark Nutella center. Ganache can also be used to replace Nutella for a different creamy chocolate filling. Adding chopped nuts to the dough is optional for added texture.

When is the best time to serve Nutella lava cookies for the ideal gooey filling?

Nutella lava cookies are best served warm, about 10-15 minutes after baking, once they have cooled slightly but the center remains soft and melty. At this stage, breaking them open releases the signature flowing Nutella. Cookies taste good at room temperature, but the filling firms up and loses its lava effect. To regain gooeyness, warm cooled cookies in a preheated 350°F oven for a few minutes.

How should Nutella lava cookies be stored to keep them fresh?

Store Nutella lava cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their texture and flavor. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to one week. When refrigerated, warming the cookies before serving will help restore the soft Nutella center. Avoid storing them uncovered to prevent drying out or losing their chewy qualities.

Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies with Gooey Centers Recipe

Description

🍪 Indulge in Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies for a gooey, decadent treat that melts in your mouth.
🌰 Experience the perfect balance of crunchy edges and soft centers, making every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light or dark brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 to 3 teaspoons cornstarch
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
15 to 24 tablespoons Nutella or hazelnut spread, frozen solid
Optional: flaky sea salt
Optional: 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop Nutella into tablespoon-sized portions onto the baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 hour.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line another baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and lighter in color, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then beat in vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using chocolate chips, fold them in now.
7. Scoop about 1/4 cup portions of cookie dough, flattening each into a disk roughly 4 inches wide.
8. Place one frozen Nutella scoop in the center of each disk, fold dough up and around, sealing completely. Roll into a smooth ball.
9. Arrange cookies 3 inches apart on the baking sheet. Optionally sprinkle flaky sea salt or extra chocolate chips on top.
10. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cookies spread, and the tops are no longer shiny. Edges should be set, centers soft.
11. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool further.

Notes

🧊 Ensure Nutella scoops are frozen solid before assembly to prevent melting.
⚡ Work quickly to maintain the frozen center when enclosing Nutella.
🌿 Use cornstarch for tender, thick, and chewy cookie results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 250
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 160mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Nutella, Chocolate Lava, Gooey Centers, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Treat