Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies

These Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. With a rich blend of Nutella and creamy peanut butter, these cookies are not just indulgent but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes these Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies truly special is the harmonious combination of flavors and textures. The creamy peanut butter adds a nutty richness, while the Nutella brings a sweet, chocolatey depth. Chunks of dark chocolate melt into the dough, creating gooey pockets of chocolate goodness in every bite. Additionally, the use of dark brown sugar gives these cookies a slight caramel flavor, enhancing their overall richness. These cookies are perfect for any chocolate lover and are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Shopping List

To make these decadent cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 large egg
• 1 cup Nutella
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter or chocolate peanut butter (do not use natural or homemade, as they can be too runny)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed; light brown sugar may be substituted)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• Pinch of salt (optional, to taste)
• 5 ounces dark chocolate (chopped; I used Trader Joe’s 72% Pound Plus Bar)

Equipment & Tools

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate measurements.
• Whisk or electric mixer – To mix the batter smoothly.
• Baking sheet – For placing the cookies while baking.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.

Directions: Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help the cookies bake without sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup Nutella, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, and 1 cup dark brown sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add in 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and pinch of salt (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate

Chop the 5 ounces of dark chocolate into chunks and fold them into the cookie dough. This will create delicious chocolate pockets throughout your cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies warm, or store them for later!

Variations for Dietary Needs

If you have specific dietary needs, here are some variations to consider:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Choose dairy-free chocolate and peanut butter alternatives.
• Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute that measures 1:1 for brown sugar.

Flavor Logic

These Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a symphony of flavors designed to satisfy any sweet craving. The combination of Nutella and peanut butter provides a creamy, nutty base, while the dark chocolate adds depth and richness. The brown sugar contributes a wonderful caramel undertone, which perfectly complements the chocolate and nutty flavors. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the chewy cookie to the melty chocolate chunks. Together, these ingredients create a cookie that’s not only delicious but also incredibly addictive!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To ensure your Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies stay fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.

Questions People Ask

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

No, it’s best to avoid natural or homemade peanut butter as they tend to be too runny, which can cause the cookies to spread too much during baking. Stick to creamy store-bought varieties for best results.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges appear set and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so do not overbake them!

Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste of the cookies.

What is the best way to melt the chocolate for this recipe?

Chop the chocolate into small chunks and melt it in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted. Alternatively, you can melt it using a double boiler on the stove.

If you enjoyed these cookies, here are some other delicious recipes to try:

The Last Word

These Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delight for any chocolate lover, offering a rich and satisfying treat that is perfect for any occasion. With their unique flavor combination and easy preparation, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, these cookies are bound to bring joy to your day. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and indulge in the deliciousness of these Nutella Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies!