Nutella Sandwich Cookies: Buttery, Chocolatey, and Perfectly Festive

If there’s one cookie that combines buttery richness, soft texture, and chocolate-hazelnut goodness, it’s the Nutella Sandwich Cookie. This delightful dessert features a delicate, buttery cookie base generously filled with creamy Nutella, making it a favorite for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or a cozy treat with your afternoon coffee. Its charming appearance, especially when the top cookie has a “window” showcasing the Nutella filling, adds a touch of elegance to any dessert platter.

These cookies are surprisingly easy to make at home, yet they feel like a gourmet treat. The dough includes a combination of almond flour and all-purpose flour, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly. A slight dusting of powdered sugar on the tops of the cookies adds a festive flair, making them ideal for gifting during holidays or for special occasions.

This article will guide you step-by-step through the process, provide helpful tips for perfect results, and answer common questions so you can create cookies that are both beautiful and delicious.

Ingredients for Nutella Sandwich Cookies

Cookie Dough

• 13 tablespoons (175 g) salted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (75 g) finely ground almond flour
• 2 cups (270 g) unbleached all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Filling

• 1 ½ cups Nutella Hazelnut Spread

Optional Garnish

• Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure perfectly tender, buttery cookies with a rich Nutella center.

Step 1 — Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and powdered sugar. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, cream them together until smooth and light. Proper creaming incorporates air into the dough, giving the cookies a tender texture.

Step 2 — Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined. The eggs add richness and moisture, helping bind the dough together.

Step 3 — Incorporate Flours and Leavening

Add the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt to the wet mixture. Gently fold using a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft dough forms with no dry patches. The dough will be slightly sticky, which is normal.

Step 4 — Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes, or up to 2 days. Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to roll and cut while helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

Step 5 — Roll Out and Cut the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Dust a clean work surface with flour. Divide the chilled dough into two pieces and lightly flour the tops. Roll out each portion to about ¼-inch thickness.

Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to stamp out circles. Place the cookies on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

For a “window” effect on the sandwich cookies, use a small round cutter (or a piping tip) to cut a small hole from half of the cookies.

Re-roll scraps sparingly, handling minimally to prevent tough cookies.

Step 6 — Bake the Cookies

Bake for 13–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. These cookies should remain soft in the center, giving a tender bite when combined with Nutella.

Step 7 — Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely. Spread about 1 tablespoon of Nutella on the solid bottom cookie. Place the top cookie (with or without the “window”) on the Nutella, pressing gently to sandwich the filling.

Optionally, dust the top cookie with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Nutella Sandwich Cookies

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter is soft but not melted. Eggs should also be at room temperature for even mixing.
2. Use Almond Flour: It adds a tender texture and subtle nutty flavor. Finely ground almond flour works best.
3. Minimal Handling: Overworking the dough can make cookies tough. Fold ingredients gently and roll the dough sparingly.
4. Even Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure cookies bake uniformly.
5. Nutella Filling: Allow Nutella to soften slightly at room temperature for easier spreading.
6. Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration, as it can harden the Nutella.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Almond: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate-hazelnut version.
• Peanut Butter Filling: Replace Nutella with peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
• Jam or Fruit Spread: Swap Nutella for raspberry or apricot preserves for a fruity version.
• Decorative Toppings: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or edible glitter on the top cookie before assembly.

Storage and Freezing

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing Dough: Wrap unbaked dough in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw before rolling, cutting, and baking.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze fully assembled cookies in layers separated by parchment. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.

2. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, but reduce added salt to ¼ teaspoon.

3. Can these cookies be made vegan?

You would need vegan butter and an egg substitute (like flax egg). Nutella is not vegan, so use a plant-based chocolate-hazelnut spread.

4. Can I prepare these cookies in advance?

Absolutely. Dough can be made up to 2 days in advance. Assembling cookies is best done the same day for freshness.

5. What if Nutella is too thick to spread?

Microwave Nutella for 5–10 seconds to soften slightly for easier spreading.

6. How do I prevent cookies from sticking to the surface while rolling?

Generously flour your work surface and lightly dust the top of the dough before rolling.

7. Can I make larger or smaller cookies?

Yes. Adjust baking time slightly: larger cookies need more time, smaller cookies less.

8. Can I use a different nut flour?

Almond flour is preferred for flavor and texture, but finely ground hazelnut or cashew flour works as well.

9. Can I dust with cocoa powder instead of powdered sugar?

Yes, for a more chocolate-forward presentation.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration, as Nutella can harden.

Nutella Sandwich Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery richness, tender texture, and creamy chocolate-hazelnut flavor. They are visually appealing, easy to make, and suitable for a variety of occasions—from holiday baking to afternoon tea. With the guidance above, you’ll be able to create cookies that impress both in taste and presentation.

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