Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies
These Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies are a dreamy twist on the classic holiday favorite. With their signature buttery texture, snowy powdered sugar coating, and surprise Nutella center, they’ll disappear the moment you set them out. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange or just treating yourself, these cookies hit all the marks: rich, festive, and irresistible.
🌟 Why I Love This Recipe
Snowball cookies are already a go-to around the holidays, but stuffing them with Nutella takes them to a whole new level. The creamy, hazelnut-chocolate center contrasts beautifully with the melt-in-your-mouth shortbread-style dough. Even better? They’re easy to make, freeze beautifully, and look like tiny powdered snowballs on your cookie tray.
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- ¼ cup Nutella (or hazelnut spread)
- Extra powdered sugar for coating
⏱️ Total Time: 10 min prep + 12 min bake = ~22 minutes
🔁 Substitutions & Variations
- Nut-Free? Omit the pecans for a smoother cookie.
- Other Fillings: Try Biscoff, peanut butter, or raspberry jam instead of Nutella.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough.
- Don’t want to stuff every cookie? Leave some plain and dust with cocoa powder for variety.
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 1–2 minutes).
3. Add Vanilla & Dry Ingredients
Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually add flour and salt. Stir until a soft dough forms. Fold in pecans, if using.
4. Stuff with Nutella
Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it into a disc. Place ½ tsp Nutella in the center, then fold the dough around it and roll into a ball.
5. Bake
Arrange the cookie balls on the baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
➡️ Bake for 10–12 minutes, until bottoms are lightly golden. Don’t overbake—they should stay soft.
6. Coat in Powdered Sugar
Let cookies cool for a few minutes, then roll in powdered sugar while still warm. Cool completely, then roll again if desired for that classic snowy look.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use cold Nutella for easier stuffing and less mess.
- Don’t overwork the dough—just mix until combined for a tender texture.
- Roll while warm but not too hot so sugar sticks without melting.
🍽️ Serving & Pairing Ideas
Serve these Nutella Snowballs with:
- A cozy cup of spiced tea or espresso
- As part of a holiday cookie platter with Caramel Apple Pie Cookies or Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- Or pack them in a tin with Peanut Butter Brownies for the ultimate edible gift
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze unbaked, filled cookie balls on a sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Bake from frozen: Add 1–2 minutes to the bake time.
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🎄 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a sweet, buttery bite, these Nutella-Stuffed Snowball Cookies are the perfect indulgence. They’re cute, cozy, and packed with chocolatey joy in every bite.
Tried them? Don’t forget to tag @chefmaniac on Instagram or leave a comment to let us know how they turned out. And subscribe for more cozy bakes and craveable cookie recipes delivered right to your inbox.
