Nutella Thumbprint Cookies That Will Melt Your Heart

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something undeniably delightful about the moment you take that first bite of a freshly baked cookie. The combination of crisp edges and a soft, chewy center creates a delightful treat that simply melts in your mouth. As I prepared these Nutella Thumbprint Cookies, I was instantly transported back to childhood afternoons spent in my grandmother s kitchen, where the sweet aroma of baking would wrap around us like a warm hug.

These cookies are not just any ordinary treat; they boast a nutty flavor from finely chopped hazelnuts and a rich, indulgent surprise of gooey Nutella in the center. After a long day or just to satisfy a craving, these little wonders come together effortlessly with simple ingredients you might already have at home. So, if you re tired of bland, store-bought options and crave something truly special, roll up your sleeves, and let s turn your kitchen into a haven of deliciousness with these Nutella Thumbprint Cookies!

Why love Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?

Indulgence at Its Finest: These cookies grab attention with ooey-gooey Nutella in every bite, providing a rich and satisfying experience.

Nostalgic Baking Experience: The aroma of toasted hazelnuts fills your kitchen, reminiscent of cherished childhood moments spent baking.

Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps and minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike.

Versatile Treat: Whether it s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to experiment with different fillings try peanut butter or fruit jams for a fun twist.

Elevate your cookie game and explore more delightful options with our delicious cookie recipes!

Nutella Thumbprint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• All purpose flour 282 grams A key ingredient for structure.
• Cornstarch 8 grams Helps create a tender texture.
• Baking powder 2 teaspoons This gives the cookies a lift.
• Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon Adds leavening for a fluffy bite.
• Fine sea salt 1/2 teaspoon Enhances all the sweet flavors.
• Hazelnuts 50 grams, finely chopped or ground Adds that distinctive nutty flavor.
• Unsalted butter 113 grams, room temperature Ensures a creamy, rich dough.
• Cream cheese 226 grams, room temperature Creates a soft and chewy center.
• Granulated sugar 300 grams Sweetens the cookies perfectly.
• Egg 1, room temperature Binds the ingredients together.
• Egg yolk 1, room temperature Enhances richness and moisture.
• Vanilla bean paste or extract 2 teaspoons Infuses a warm, vanilla flavor.

For the Coating

• Hazelnuts 50 grams, finely chopped (for coating) Crunchy texture, complements Nutella.
• Granulated sugar 1 tablespoon (for coating) Adds a sweet, sparkling finish.

These Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are sure to become your go-to treat for any occasion!

How to Make Nutella Thumbprint Cookies

1. Whisk Together: Combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground hazelnuts in a large bowl. This blend is essential for the structure of your cookies, so ensure it s well mixed and fluffy.

2. Cream Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add in the granulated sugar, mixing until the mixture is creamy and fluffy, making your cookies wonderfully rich.

3. Incorporate Eggs: Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the buttery mixture. Mix until all ingredients come together beautifully, creating a lovely, smooth batter.

4. Combine Dry and Wet: Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Beat carefully until you form a soft dough. Once ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2-3 hours to firm up.

5. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep clean-up easy.

6. Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped hazelnuts and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. This mix will give your cookies a delightful crunch when baked.

7. Shape Dough Balls: Use a small cookie scoop to form balls from the chilled dough. Roll each one in the hazelnut-sugar mixture until fully coated, creating a beautiful outer layer.

8. Bake Cookies: Place the coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Bake for 8-9 minutes, or until they are puffed up and the edges look set.

9. Create Indents: After baking, let the cookies cool for 2 minutes on the pan. Then, gently press the bottom of a rounded teaspoon into the center of each cookie to create an indent. Allow them to cool for another 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

10. Fill with Nutella: Once cooled, fill the indents with warm Nutella, allowing the luscious chocolate hazelnut spread to create a delightful surprise in every bite. Enjoy them either warm or at room temperature!

Optional: Sprinkle a few extra hazelnuts on top for added texture and flair.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Nutella Thumbprint Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 2-3 hours is crucial for easier handling and well-shaped cookies. Avoid baking without chilling, as the cookies may spread too much.

• Egg Temperature Matters: Use room temperature eggs for smoother integration into the dough. Cold eggs can create a lumpy mixture, compromising the texture of your Nutella Thumbprint Cookies.

• Parchment Paper: Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure even baking. Skip this step, and you may find it challenging to remove your cookies!

• Indentation Technique: When making the indent, use a gentle touch to avoid breaking the cookie. A rounded teaspoon works wonders for creating a perfect cavity for that delicious Nutella.

• Experiment with Fillings: While Nutella is a star, consider other fillings like peanut butter or fruit preserves for a delightful twist. Just ensure they have a similar consistency for best results.

What to Serve with Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?

These delightful cookies are the perfect sweet treat, and pairing them with complementary bites can elevate your dessert experience.

• Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries offer a tart contrast to the rich, sweet cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds coolness and a dreamy texture that harmonizes perfectly with the warm Hazelnut cookies.

• Coffee or Espresso: A steaming cup of coffee enhances the cookie s hazelnut richness, providing a comforting warmth that awakens the taste buds.

• Chocolate Milk: This classic drink frenzy transforms snack time into a nostalgic moment, amplifying the chocolate notes within the Nutella.

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream brings a soft texture alongside the cookies, offering a delightful mousse-like pairing.

• Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates every cookie with a sweet, luscious contrast that pleases the palate.

• Chopped Nuts: Consider serving with a mix of toasted hazelnuts which adds extra crunch and complements the Nutella s flavor profile.

Indulge in these pairings for a delightful treat that surrounds your homemade cookies with comforting, layered flavors!

Variations & Substitutions for Nutella Thumbprint Cookies

Feel free to let your creativity run wild as you customize this delightful cookie recipe!

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for delicious results.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and dairy-free cream cheese to keep these cookies just as creamy and satisfying.
• Nut-Free: Swap hazelnuts for sunflower seeds or rolled oats for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolaty experience.
• Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm spice accent that enhances the hazelnuts.
• Fruit Twist: Swap Nutella for fruity jams like raspberry or apricot to give these cookies a delightful fruity surprise.
• Crunch Factor: For an extra crunch, mix in some chopped dark chocolate or toasted coconut before baking.

No matter which variation you choose, these Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are bound to become a cherished favorite!

Make Ahead Options

These Nutella Thumbprint Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and then covering the bowl tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. Alternatively, after forming the dough balls, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. To maintain that delightful chewiness, make sure to cool the cookies completely before filling them with Nutella to keep the center gooey and delicious. This way, you ll have scrumptious homemade cookies ready whenever the craving strikes!

How to Store and Freeze Nutella Thumbprint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want them to last longer, place your Nutella Thumbprint Cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they are in a well-sealed container to avoid drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Lay them flat in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: For warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy the gooey Nutella center!

Nutella Thumbprint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe hazelnuts for the cookies?
Absolutely! Look for hazelnuts that are fresh, firm, and free from dark spots or signs of mold. They should have a slightly shiny skin and a pleasant nutty aroma. If you re buying them in a bag, give them a gentle shake fresh nuts will sound solid rather than loose.

What is the best way to store Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?
The more the merrier! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can place them in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they re well-sealed to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Nutella Thumbprint Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, let them cool completely and then lay them flat in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky after chilling, it may be due to humidity or ingredient variations. Simply sprinkle a bit of flour onto your hands while rolling the cookie balls, which helps shape them without affecting the texture. Also, ensure that your measurements were accurate, as even slight variations can affect the dough s consistency!

Are Nutella Thumbprint Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Oh, good question! These cookies contain hazelnuts and are therefore not safe for those with nut allergies. If you re looking for a nut-free alternative, feel free to experiment with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin, although the flavor will vary slightly. Always check labels if you re using packaged ingredients to ensure they are processed in nut-free facilities.

How long can I leave the cookies out before they go bad?
Nutella Thumbprint Cookies can be left out at room temperature for no more than 3 days in an airtight container. After that, moving them to the fridge is a good idea for keeping them fresh and chewy!