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Nutella Thumbprint Cookies

These cookies are small, buttery treats with a crispy exterior and a soft, gooey center filled with Nutella. They are formed into rounds with a jewel-like Nutella crown on top and baked until golden, resulting in a rich and indulgent texture with a charming appearance.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened soft but not melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup Nutella for filling

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop or spoon
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You should see a pale, airy texture and hear a gentle beating sound.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, then beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together and is slightly crumbly but holds when pressed.
  6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out 1 1/2-inch dough balls, placing them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Use your thumb or a rounded teaspoon to gently indent the center of each dough ball, forming a small well about 1 inch wide.
  8. Fill each well with about 1/2 teaspoon of Nutella, making sure not to overfill so the cookie maintains its shape.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the Nutella filling looks slightly melted but not burnt.
  10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up.
  11. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the centers to set and the flavors to meld.
  12. Once cooled, enjoy these rich, crispy-edged cookies with their glossy Nutella centers, perfect for holiday treats or any special occasion.

Notes

Keep the cookies stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze unfilled dough balls to bake fresh cookies later.