Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies: Bake Yours Now!

Introduction to Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Oh, darling, let’s be honest. Life moves fast, right?

Between work, family, and that never-ending laundry pile, sometimes you just need a little magic.

I found that magic tucked away in a recipe for these amazing Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies.

They are the perfect blend of buttery melt-in-your-mouth goodness and that irresistible chocolate-hazelnut flavor we all adore.

These aren’t just cookies; they are little spheres of comfort, helping you conquer your busy day with a sweet reward.

Trust me, making these is a breeze, and they bring so much joy!

The Perfect Bite for Busy Lives

I know what you’re thinking: another complicated baking project?

Absolutely not! I designed this recipe specifically for my fellow busy women.

These Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies require minimal fuss but deliver maximum festive flavor.

They are quick to make, easy to transport, and utterly beautiful on any holiday platter.

You can whip up a batch after dinner and still have time to put your feet up.

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

I totally get it; time is precious, like gold dust.

That’s why these cookies are a lifesaver, blending classic tradition with a modern, rich flavor.

They are easy, fast, and taste like a fancy European bakery treat.

Plus, who can resist a cookie that uses Nutella? Not me!

A Holiday Classic with a Decadent Twist

You know those classic snowball cookies—the ones Grandma made?

They were lovely, but these have a little secret weapon: Nutella!

We take that familiar buttery texture and infuse it with rich chocolate and toasted hazelnuts.

It’s a sophisticated upgrade that makes these Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies truly unforgettable.

This recipe is all about elevating the everyday into something truly special.

Simple Ingredients, Spectacular Flavor

You don’t need a pantry full of specialty items for this magic to happen.

We use basic kitchen staples, adding Nutella and crunchy hazelnuts for that show-stopping taste.

The flavor profile is deep, nutty, and wonderfully balanced by the powdered sugar coating.

It’s proof that simple ingredients, when handled with love, can create spectacular results.

These little snowballs are a massive flavor punch in a tiny package.

Ingredients for Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Baking is like a delicate dance, and ingredients are your partners.

We want the best partners for our beautiful Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies.

I’ll walk you through what you need right now.

Remember, exact measurements are waiting for you at the bottom of the page, ready for easy printing!

The Foundation: Buttery Goodness

We start with the bedrock of any great cookie: butter and sugar.

Use unsalted butter, softened just perfectly, not melted.

This ensures our dough is rich and wonderfully tender.

Butter and Sugar Explained

Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps the cookies spread just right.

The butter needs to be creamy to trap air during mixing.

This air gives your finished cookie that desirable light texture.

The Flavor Stars: Nutella and Hazelnuts

These two are the absolute showstoppers in our recipe.

Nutella adds that deep, unmistakable chocolate-hazelnut complexity, making these truly unique.

Finely chopped toasted hazelnuts bring essential crunch and a warm, earthy flavor.

Sourcing the Best Hazelnuts

Look for whole, raw hazelnuts, often called filberts.

Toasting them yourself makes a huge difference in flavor intensity.

I promise, that extra ten minutes is truly worth the effort!

Pantry Staples and Substitutions

We also need the usual suspects from your baking cupboard.

A large egg acts as a binder, holding everything together happily.

Pure vanilla extract boosts all the other sweet flavors beautifully.

Flour, Salt, and Vanilla Essentials

All-purpose flour gives the cookie its necessary structure.

Just a pinch of salt balances the sweetness, preventing flatness.

If you don’t have vanilla, almond extract is a fun, potent substitute.

How to Make Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

This is where the real fun begins, my dear friend!

Making these Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies is a lovely, straightforward process.

Just follow these simple steps, and you will be enjoying warm cookies very soon.

Don’t rush the process; savor every moment of your baking adventure.

Step 1: Creaming the Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies Base

Grab your stand mixer or a large bowl and hand mixer.

Combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and that glorious Nutella.

Beat these ingredients together until the mixture looks pale and delightfully fluffy.

Then, mix in the egg and the vanilla extract until they are fully incorporated.

Achieving the Perfect Fluffy Texture

Creaming is vital; it introduces air into the dough.

This air pocket helps our cookies stay tender, not dense.

Scrape down the bowl’s sides often to ensure even mixing.

Step 2: Incorporating Wet and Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour and salt.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture.

Mix only on low speed until everything is just barely combined.

Stop mixing as soon as you see no more streaks of dry flour.

The Secret to Tender Cookies

Overmixing develops gluten, making the cookies tough.

We want a tender, crumbly texture, perfect for a snowball cookie.

Remember, gentle is the key word here.

Step 3: Folding in the Toasted Hazelnuts

Now, gently fold in those amazing chopped toasted hazelnuts.

Use a spatula to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.

You want a nice crunch in every single bite, truly.

Why Toasting Your Hazelnuts Matters

Toasting nuts brings out their latent, rich, complex oils.

It makes the hazelnut flavor much deeper and more intense.

Skip this step, and you miss out on so much flavor.

Step 4: Chilling the Dough for Structure

Wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap.

Refrigerate it for at least thirty minutes, maybe longer.

This rest time is not optional; it’s absolutely necessary.

How Long to Chill for Best Results

The dough must be firm enough to roll without sticking.

Chilling prevents the Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies from spreading too much.

A firm dough means beautifully shaped, thick cookies.

Step 5: Rolling and Baking Your Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your baking sheets.

Roll the chilled dough into one-inch balls, like little marbles.

Place them about two inches apart on the prepared sheet.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are faintly golden.

Achieving Uniform Size

Uniform size ensures all cookies bake at the same rate.

I like using a small cookie scoop for perfect consistency.

Don’t overbake them; they should look slightly pale still.

Step 6: The Double Roll in Powdered Sugar

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for about five minutes.

While still warm, roll them generously in powdered sugar.

Let them cool completely on a wire rack afterward.

Once fully cooled, roll them in the powdered sugar a second time.

Why We Roll Them Twice

The first roll sticks to the warm, slightly tacky cookie surface.

The second roll creates that perfect, thick, snowy coating we desire.

This gives these delightful snowball cookies their signature look.

Tips for Success

Mastering the Perfect Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

• Always use room temperature butter for optimal creaming results.
• Don’t skip toasting the hazelnuts; it dramatically enhances the flavor profile.
• Measure your flour by lightly spooning it into the measuring cup, then leveling it off.
• For a cleaner look, use gloves when rolling the warm cookies in powdered sugar.
• If your dough gets too soft while rolling, pop it back into the fridge for a quick chill.
• Bake until the edges are just set, keeping the centers wonderfully soft.

Equipment Needed

Essential Tools for Baking

• A sturdy stand mixer or a reliable hand mixer speeds things up considerably.
• You will need a few large baking sheets and some parchment paper for lining.
• A small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon size) ensures uniform sizes.
• You’ll definitely need a good quality wire rack for cooling the cookies properly.
• A food processor or sharp knife is necessary for finely chopping your hazelnuts.

Variations for Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Dietary and Flavor Adaptations

• Swap out the Nutella for an alternative chocolate spread if you prefer a different nut.
• Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for those sensitive to gluten.
• Substitute walnuts or pecans for hazelnuts if you can’t find the primary ingredient.
• For deeper chocolate color, add two tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the flour mixture.

Making Them Gluten-Free

Gluten-free flour blends work beautifully here, retaining the tender texture.

Just ensure your blend is a cup-for-cup variety for easy substitution.

Adding a Spice Kick

Try adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients.

These warm spices complement the rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation Ideas for Your Snowball Cookies

• Serve these Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies with a hot cup of coffee or rich espresso.
• They look stunning piled high on a tiered cake stand for holiday parties.
• Package them in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Pair them with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate nostalgic treat.

FAQs about Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Can I freeze the dough for Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing the dough is a fantastic time-saver.

Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag for up to three months.

Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and baking your beautiful cookies.

How should I store the finished Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

They will stay fresh for about one week if sealed well.

You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to a month.

What is the best way to toast hazelnuts for this recipe?

Spread the raw hazelnuts on a baking sheet at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

They are done when fragrant and the skins start cracking slightly.

Rub them vigorously in a clean kitchen towel to remove most of the bitter skins.

Why are my snowball cookies spreading too much during baking?

Spreading usually happens when the dough wasn’t chilled long enough before baking.

Make sure your butter wasn’t too soft when you started creaming it, either.

Also, check your oven temperature; an inaccurate oven can cause unexpected spreading.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying Your Homemade Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Baking is truly an act of love, my dear, and these cookies prove it.

These little spheres of joy, these Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies, are more than just dessert.

They are a moment of peace and a sweet reward for all your hard work.

I hope you savor every single buttery, nutty, chocolate-kissed bite.

Sharing these simple, spectacular treats is what makes life so wonderfully rich.

Go ahead, grab a cup of tea, and enjoy your baking triumph!

Equipment Needed

Essential Tools for Baking

• A sturdy stand mixer or a reliable hand mixer speeds things up considerably.
• You will need a few large baking sheets and some parchment paper for lining.
• A small cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon size) ensures uniform sizes.
• You’ll definitely need a good quality wire rack for cooling the cookies properly.
• A food processor or sharp knife is necessary for finely chopping your hazelnuts.

Variations for Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Once you master the basic recipe, the fun truly begins!

I love experimenting, and these cookies are a great canvas for creative twists.

Here are a few ways to adapt these delightful snowballs to suit different tastes or needs.

Dietary and Flavor Adaptations

• Swap out the Nutella for an alternative chocolate spread if you prefer a different nut.
• Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum for those sensitive to gluten.
• Substitute walnuts or pecans for hazelnuts if you can’t find the primary ingredient.
• For deeper chocolate color, add two tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the flour mixture.
• Add a teaspoon of finely grated orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note.
• Roll the cooled cookies in a mixture of powdered sugar and finely ground freeze-dried raspberries for a pink, fruity finish.

Making Them Gluten-Free

Gluten-free flour blends work beautifully here, retaining the tender texture.

Just ensure your blend is a cup-for-cup variety for easy substitution.

The buttery richness of these Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies masks any texture changes.

Adding a Spice Kick

Try adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients.

These warm spices complement the rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors perfectly.

A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper is surprisingly wonderful for a subtle heat boost.

Serving Suggestions

These little snowballs are fantastic all by themselves, honestly.

However, serving them with flair turns a simple treat into a celebration.

Think about how you can elevate the experience for yourself and your guests.

Presentation Ideas for Your Snowball Cookies

• Serve these Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies with a hot cup of coffee or rich espresso.
• They look stunning piled high on a tiered cake stand for holiday parties.
• Package them in small cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Pair them with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate nostalgic treat.
• Dust the serving platter lightly with extra powdered sugar to mimic fresh snow.

FAQs about Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

I always get so many fantastic questions about baking!

Here are the answers to the most common queries about these delightful Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies.

I hope these tips help make your baking experience smooth and successful.

Can I freeze the dough for Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?

Yes, absolutely! Freezing the dough is a fantastic time-saver.

I often make a double batch just for the freezer.

Wrap the unrolled dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag.

It will keep beautifully for up to three months, ready when you need a quick cookie fix!

Thaw the dough overnight in the fridge before rolling and baking your beautiful cookies.

How should I store the finished Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies?

Store these finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

They will stay fresh and tender for about one week if sealed well.

If you need them to last longer, you can freeze the baked hazelnut cookies for up to a month.

Just let them thaw completely before serving, and maybe give them a quick second dusting of powdered sugar.

What is the best way to toast hazelnuts for this recipe?

Toasting hazelnuts is so easy and makes a huge flavor difference.

Spread the raw nuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes.

They are done when they smell wonderfully fragrant and the skins start cracking slightly.

Rub them vigorously in a clean kitchen towel to remove most of the bitter skins before chopping them finely.

Why are my snowball cookies spreading too much during baking?

Spreading usually happens when the dough wasn’t chilled long enough before baking.

Chilling is crucial for those perfect, little round snowball cookies.

Make sure your butter wasn’t too soft when you started creaming it, either.

Also, check your oven temperature; an inaccurate oven can cause unexpected spreading every time.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying Your Homemade Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies

Baking is truly an act of love, my dear, and these cookies absolutely prove it.

These little spheres of joy, these beautiful Nutella Hazelnut Snowball Cookies, are so much more than just a simple dessert.

They are a moment of quiet peace and a sweet reward for all your daily efforts.

I hope you savor every single buttery, nutty, chocolate-kissed bite you take.

Sharing these simple, spectacular treats with loved ones is what makes life so wonderfully rich.

Go ahead, make a cup of tea, and enjoy your delicious baking triumph!

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