Introduction
Nutella Bombs are the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate and hazelnut lover. These bite-sized treats feature a soft, warm dough filled with rich, creamy Nutella and coated with a layer of powdered sugar. Once baked, the explosion of Nutella goodness inside creates a delightful contrast with the slightly crispy outer shell. Whether you enjoy them as a decadent snack or serve them as part of a dessert spread, Nutella Bombs are sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and irresistible.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or just because you need a chocolatey treat, Nutella Bombs are simple to make and provide a visually appealing, mouthwatering experience. With the warm, gooey Nutella center encased in a soft dough, these little bombs of happiness will quickly become a favorite. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparing the dough to baking the Nutella-filled perfection, and provide tips for achieving the best results.
Why You’ll Love Nutella Bombs
- Irresistibly Gooey Nutella Center: Each bite bursts with the rich, creamy goodness of Nutella. The smooth, chocolate-hazelnut filling is the star of this treat, offering a sweet surprise inside every bite.
- Perfect Combination of Textures: The exterior of the Nutella Bomb is soft, slightly golden, and slightly crispy on the outside, while the inside remains a gooey, chocolatey treasure. The contrast of textures is absolutely delightful.
- Visually Appealing: The light dusting of powdered sugar over the Nutella Bombs adds a touch of elegance, making them an attractive addition to any dessert table or cookie tray.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow process, Nutella Bombs are a perfect treat for beginner and seasoned bakers alike. They come together in no time!
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making them for a special event or as an everyday indulgence, Nutella Bombs are a perfect choice for any occasion, from a casual snack to a festive gathering.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 20-24 Nutella Bombs
- Calories per Serving: Around 150-170 calories per Nutella Bomb, depending on the size and specific ingredients used.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150-170 kcal
- Fat: 9-10g
- Carbohydrates: 19-22g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10-12g
Ingredients
For the Nutella Bombs:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup Nutella (or any hazelnut spread)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Special Equipment
While making Nutella Bombs doesn’t require any fancy tools, a few key pieces of equipment can help ensure smooth preparation and a perfect result:
- Electric Mixer: An electric mixer will make it easier to cream the butter and sugar together, resulting in a light, fluffy dough that will be perfect for wrapping around the Nutella filling.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon: A cookie scoop or spoon ensures that each Nutella Bomb is the same size, so they bake evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat will prevent the Nutella Bombs from sticking and help with even heat distribution during baking.
- Shallow Bowl for Powdered Sugar: A shallow bowl makes it easy to coat the Nutella Bombs in powdered sugar, creating a light dusting that adds to their appeal.
- Wire Rack: After baking, place the Nutella Bombs on a wire rack to cool. This allows air to circulate around them and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for the success of this recipe. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts of ingredients.
- Mixing Bowls: Have two separate mixing bowls—one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients—to make the preparation process easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the butter and sugar are well combined and the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until smooth. The egg binds the dough together, while the vanilla extract adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will provide structure and lift to the dough, ensuring that the Nutella Bombs have a soft yet firm texture.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
3. Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and less likely to spread too much during baking.
4. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the Nutella Bombs from sticking during baking. If you don’t have either, lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray.
5. Form the Nutella Bombs
Once the dough has chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough using a spoon or cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a ball in your hands. Press your thumb gently into the center of each dough ball to create a small indentation.
Spoon about a teaspoon of Nutella into each indentation, then carefully fold the edges of the dough over the Nutella to seal it inside. Roll the dough ball again to ensure that the Nutella is completely enclosed in the dough.
6. Coat the Dough Balls in Powdered Sugar
Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until it is fully coated. The sugar will create a light, sweet exterior and help the Nutella Bombs develop a slightly cracked surface during baking.
7. Bake the Nutella Bombs
Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. This will allow enough space for the cookies to spread slightly as they bake. Bake the Nutella Bombs for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft. Be careful not to overbake; the Nutella center should remain gooey and warm.
If you prefer a softer texture, remove the Nutella Bombs from the oven a minute or two earlier. They will continue to firm up slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.
8. Cool the Nutella Bombs
Allow the Nutella Bombs to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will give them time to set without falling apart. Once on the wire rack, let them cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Nutella Bombs
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter will be difficult to cream with the sugar, and melted butter could cause the dough to spread too much during baking.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the dough chilling step. Chilling the dough makes it easier to work with and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin while baking.
- Seal the Nutella Inside: Be sure to completely enclose the Nutella with dough so that it doesn’t leak out while baking. This ensures that the gooey center stays intact for that perfect Nutella explosion.
- Roll Generously in Powdered Sugar: Coat each Nutella Bomb generously in powdered sugar for that lovely sweet crust and the signature cracked look.
- Don’t Overbake: The Nutella center should remain soft and gooey. Overbaking will result in a drier center, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake.
Variations of Nutella Bombs
- Nutella Hazelnut Bombs: Add finely chopped hazelnuts to the dough for an extra layer of texture and flavor. The nuts will complement the Nutella filling and provide a delightful crunch.
- Peanut Butter Nutella Bombs: For a fun twist, replace the Nutella filling with peanut butter or create a hybrid of Nutella and peanut butter. This will give you a rich, creamy, and nutty flavor combination.
- Coconut Nutella Bombs: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair. The coconut adds a chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Nutella center.
- Salted Caramel Nutella Bombs: Add a spoonful of salted caramel sauce to the Nutella center for an extra layer of sweetness and depth of flavor.
Storage and Shelf Life
Nutella Bombs are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Store the cooled Nutella Bombs in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the Nutella Bombs. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen Nutella Bombs can last 2-3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Nutella Bombs
Pair these decadent treats with complementary snacks and beverages to elevate the experience:
- Milk or Hot Chocolate: A glass of cold milk or a cup of hot chocolate makes the perfect pairing with the sweet and gooey Nutella Bombs.
- Coffee or Espresso: The richness of coffee or espresso complements the Nutella Bombs, offering a balance of flavors that enhances the chocolate-hazelnut filling.
- Ice Cream: Nutella Bombs paired with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream create a decadent dessert combination.
- Fruit Platter: The freshness of berries or citrus fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, chocolatey flavor of Nutella Bombs.
Nutella Bombs Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Description
Bite-sized bursts of heavenly chocolate and hazelnut flavor, these Nutella Bombs are made with soft, pillowy dough wrapped around creamy Nutella. A simple treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
For the Nutella Bombs:
-
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
-
½ teaspoon baking powder
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
-
¼ cup granulated sugar
-
1 large egg
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ cup Nutella (or any hazelnut spread)
-
½ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the butter and sugar are well combined and the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until smooth. The egg binds the dough together, while the vanilla extract adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will provide structure and lift to the dough, ensuring that the Nutella Bombs have a soft yet firm texture.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled.
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and less likely to spread too much during baking.
While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the Nutella Bombs from sticking during baking. If you don’t have either, lightly grease the baking sheet with butter or cooking spray.
Once the dough has chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough using a spoon or cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a ball in your hands. Press your thumb gently into the center of each dough ball to create a small indentation.
Spoon about a teaspoon of Nutella into each indentation, then carefully fold the edges of the dough over the Nutella to seal it inside. Roll the dough ball again to ensure that the Nutella is completely enclosed in the dough.
Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until it is fully coated. The sugar will create a light, sweet exterior and help the Nutella Bombs develop a slightly cracked surface during baking.
Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. This will allow enough space for the cookies to spread slightly as they bake. Bake the Nutella Bombs for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft. Be careful not to overbake; the Nutella center should remain gooey and warm.
If you prefer a softer texture, remove the Nutella Bombs from the oven a minute or two earlier. They will continue to firm up slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.
Allow the Nutella Bombs to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will give them time to set without falling apart. Once on the wire rack, let them cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 150-170 kcal
- Fat: 9-10g
- Carbohydrates: 19-22g
- Protein: 2g
Conclusion
Nutella Bombs are a delicious, indulgent treat that is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With their gooey Nutella center and soft, slightly crispy exterior, these bite-sized delights offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, Nutella Bombs will always impress. Enjoy the warm, chocolatey explosion inside every bite, and savor the magic of Nutella in its most decadent form!