Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
Chocolate lava cake meets Nutella stuffed cookies! These Nutella chocolate lava cookies are the definition of decadence. With a chewy and fudgy chocolate cookie that tastes like a brownie, surrounding a melty and gooey Nutella stuffing, these treats are perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, these cookies will impress everyone. Their standout feature is the surprise molten center that oozes out when you take a bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The rich combination of chocolate and Nutella creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe accessible even for novice bakers.
- Impressive Presentation: The gooey center looks stunning when served warm.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home.
- Customizable Options: Top with flaky sea salt or serve with ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Nutella chocolate lava cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Freezer-safe tray
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and energy when blending butter and sugars.
- Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal.

Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (300g) Nutella
– 2 1/4 cups (295g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 cup (80g) unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1 cup (200g) light or dark brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– flaky sea salt (optional – for topping)
How to Make Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Nutella Filling
- Line a medium baking sheet or cutting board with parchment paper.
- Scoop 15 tablespoon-sized portions of Nutella onto your lined tray. If the Nutella is too soft to hold shape, chill it in the fridge briefly.
- Place the tray in the freezer for about 1 hour or until the Nutella scoops are frozen solid.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, combine:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup light or dark brown sugar
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Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and lightened in color (about 1-2 minutes).
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Beat in the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture.
- Add in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract with the second egg and mix well.
Step 5: Form Cookie Dough
- Gradually pour in the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet mixture.
- Mix until completely combined without any streaks.
- Scoop out 1/4 cup portions of dough and flatten into disks around 4 inches wide.
- Place one frozen Nutella scoop in the center of each disk and fold up the sides to cover it completely.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
- Roll each filled dough ball smooth and place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 3 inches apart.
- Bake in the center of your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until spread out and no longer shiny on top.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow cookies to cool on the tray for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For an extra gooey filling, serve while still warm with optional flaky sea salt on top! Enjoy your delicious Nutella chocolate lava cookies!
How to Serve Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
Serving Nutella chocolate lava cookies is a delightful experience that can be tailored to different occasions. Whether for a casual gathering or a special celebration, these cookies can be enjoyed in various ways.
Warm and Gooey
- Serve them warm right out of the oven for an extra melty filling that oozes Nutella with each bite.
With Ice Cream
- Pair these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top to enhance the richness of the Nutella and make them visually appealing.
Topped with Sea Salt
- For a sophisticated touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before serving. The salt enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity balance that cuts through the richness of the cookies.
As Party Favors
- Package them in cute boxes or bags as party favors. They’re perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any festive occasion.
How to Perfect Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
Perfecting your Nutella chocolate lava cookies takes just a few tips and tricks to ensure they turn out incredible every time.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth dough that bakes evenly.
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Chill Your Nutella – Freezing the Nutella portions makes it easier to stuff into the cookie dough, ensuring the gooey center remains intact while baking.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
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Bake Just Right – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them once they no longer look shiny; this prevents over-baking which could set the gooey center.
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Cool Before Serving – Allowing the cookies to cool slightly on the tray before transferring them helps maintain their shape and filling consistency.
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Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to add extracts like almond or orange zest for an exciting twist on flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Nutella chocolate lava cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:
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Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate flavors perfectly.
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Fresh Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing option that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Mousse – For true chocolate lovers, serve with a side of silky chocolate mousse for double indulgence.
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Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess and contrasts well with the warmth of the lava cookies.
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Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for added sweetness and richness.
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Coffee or Espresso – A cup of coffee or espresso provides a robust flavor that pairs beautifully with dessert.
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Nut Butter Spread – Offer almond or peanut butter spread as an alternative dip for those who love nutty flavors alongside chocolate.
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Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory counterpoint to these sweet treats, making it an interesting dessert board option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect Nutella Temperature: If the Nutella is too soft, it won’t hold its shape when scooped. Chill it in the fridge for a few minutes before portioning.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are essential for perfect cookies. Always spoon and level your flour and cocoa powder instead of scooping directly from the container.
- Overmixing Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to maintain a soft texture.
- Skipping the Freezing Step: Freezing the Nutella scoops ensures a gooey center. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for the lava effect!
- Baking Too Long: Keep an eye on baking time. Remove cookies when they no longer look shiny on top for that perfect gooey center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
- Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For unbaked cookie dough, freeze after shaping; then transfer to a zip-top bag.
Reheating Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover with a lid and warm for a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies.
How do you make Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies?
To make these delicious cookies, follow the provided recipe carefully, ensuring you freeze the Nutella scoops and bake them just long enough.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can experiment with dark or milk chocolate cocoa powder in your dough for varied flavors.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
The cookies should not look shiny on top and should have spread out slightly when done. A light touch will confirm they are set yet soft in the middle.
Can I customize my Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies?
Yes! Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies are not only indulgent but also versatile! You can customize them with different mix-ins or toppings. These cookies are sure to impress at any gathering—give them a try!
Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with Nutella Chocolate Lava Cookies. These delightful cookies combine a rich, chewy brownie-like outer layer with a luscious, melty Nutella center that oozes out upon the first bite. Perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings, they are bound to impress friends and family alike. Easy to make, this recipe offers a fun baking project for all skill levels. Enhance your treat by pairing them with ice cream or fresh berries, making them as versatile as they are delicious. Get ready to savor the warm, gooey goodness of these irresistible cookies!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 15 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup Nutella
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light or dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Nutella filling: Scoop portions of Nutella onto parchment paper and freeze for about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and whisk together dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
- Form dough into disks, place frozen Nutella in the center, and seal completely.
- Bake on lined baking sheets for 10-12 minutes until set but still soft.
- Cool briefly before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (70g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
