If you have a sweet tooth and love the irresistible combo of chocolate and hazelnut, then the Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a perfectly baked chocolate chip cookie shell, soft yet crispy, holding a luscious, creamy Nutella mousse that melts in your mouth with every bite. This delightful treat is not just a feast for your taste buds but a joy to make and share, bringing a cozy, homemade vibe to any dessert table. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or impressing guests, these cookie cups deliver on flavor and fun.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating that perfect balance of texture and taste. From the buttery cookie dough that forms the crisp cups to the rich Nutella filling, every component is essential to the final magic.
- Chocolate chip cookie dough: Using refrigerated dough makes this recipe quick and easy while ensuring the cookie cups stay tender yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.
- Nutella: The star ingredient, providing that signature creamy hazelnut and chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with the cookie base.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds richness and a slight tang to balance Nutella’s sweetness, making the filling smooth and luscious.
- Whipped topping (thawed): Lightens the mousse filling so it’s fluffy and airy without overpowering the other flavors.
- Cooking spray: Keeps your mini muffin pan greased so the cookie cups pop out easily without breaking.
How to Make Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Pan and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a mini muffin pan. This step is crucial to preventing your cookie cups from sticking, ensuring each one comes out perfectly formed. Then, divide the cookie dough into 24 equal balls and place one in each muffin cup. This portioning sets the foundation for cookie cups that are uniform in size and bake evenly.
Step 2: Bake the Cookie Cups
Bake your cookie dough balls for about 14 to 15 minutes, just until they rise slightly over the edge of the muffin cups. They will look like delicate little muffin tops when done, tender with a lightly crisp edge. It’s important not to overbake here so the cookie cup will remain pliable enough to create the bowl shape.
Step 3: Shape the Cookie Cups
Take the pan off the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for around five minutes. While still warm, gently press the center of each cookie down with a tablespoon or a tart tamper—something to create a bowl-like cavity without breaking the cookie. This shaping step transforms ordinary cookies into charming little cups ready to be filled with the luscious Nutella mousse.
Step 4: Prepare the Nutella Mousse Filling
Using a hand mixer, blend together the Nutella and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then, carefully fold in the whipped topping to lighten the texture, resulting in a fluffy, dreamy mousse. This filling is what makes the Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe truly exceptional—the smooth creaminess contrasts beautifully with the crisp cookie shell.
Step 5: Fill and Chill
Once your cookie cups are completely cool, transfer them to a serving platter or board for the finishing touch. Pipe or spoon the Nutella mousse into each cup generously. Refrigerate the filled cups for at least 30 minutes to let the mousse set perfectly and the flavors meld together for a truly indulgent bite.
How to Serve Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe presentation, consider sprinkling a little powdered sugar, chopped hazelnuts, or mini chocolate chips on top of each cup. Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and a complementary tartness that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cookie cups pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. For a beverage match, think rich hot chocolate or a silky latte to create a cozy dessert experience that feels like a warm hug.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, serve your Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe on a decorative tiered dessert stand for a party or afternoon tea. Alternatively, place each cup inside mini cupcake liners for an easy grab-and-go dessert option. You can even alternate fillings by adding a layer of peanut butter or caramel inside for a surprise burst of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the mousse filling firm and the cookie cups fresh. They will stay delicious up to three days, though they rarely last that long!
Freezing
You can freeze this Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe by placing the cookie cups (unfilled) on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator and fill with mousse. Filled cups do not freeze well as the texture of the mousse changes.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookie cups slightly warm, gently warm them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes before filling with the chilled mousse. This softens the cookie just enough without compromising its shape or texture.
FAQs
Can I make these cookie cups with homemade cookie dough?
Absolutely! Homemade cookie dough works wonderfully and lets you customize flavors, but store-bought refrigerated dough is a convenient shortcut that cuts down prep time without losing any charm.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, mascarpone cheese or crème fraîche are excellent alternatives that provide a similar creamy texture and mild tanginess to complement the Nutella.
How long can I keep the filled cookie cups in the fridge?
Filled Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe should be enjoyed within two to three days for the best texture and flavor. The cookie shell can soften over time, so it’s best to consume sooner rather than later.
Can I use a different type of cookie dough?
While chocolate chip cookie dough is classic, feel free to experiment with peanut butter or sugar cookie dough for a fun twist. Just make sure the dough is sturdy enough to hold the filling once shaped.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy cream cheese and whipped topping with plant-based versions, and ensure your cookie dough is dairy-free. Nutella itself contains dairy, so look for a dairy-free hazelnut spread alternative if needed.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making and sharing this Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of familiar comfort and a little touch of elegance that makes each bite feel special. Whether you’re surprising loved ones or treating yourself, these cookie cups promise joy and indulgence with every mouthful. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dessert!
Print
Nutella Cookie Cups Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookie cups
Description
Delightful Nutella Cookie Cups combine soft baked chocolate chip cookie shells filled with a creamy, rich Nutella mousse. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or a sweet indulgence, featuring a delicious blend of cookie crunch and smooth Nutella-cream cheese filling.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 pkg (16 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (makes 24 cookies)
- Cooking Spray (for greasing the pan)
Nutella Mousse Filling
- 1 ¼ cup Nutella
- ⅓ cup cream cheese (softened; or use mascarpone cheese or creme fraiche)
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping (thawed)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Shape cookie dough: Divide the refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough into 24 equal-sized balls and place each ball into the prepared mini muffin pan.
- Bake cookies: Bake the cookie dough balls for 14 to 15 minutes. The dough will rise slightly over the cups, forming a muffin-top shape.
- Create cookie cups: Allow the cookies to rest in the pan on a wire rack for 5 minutes, then gently press the center of each cookie down halfway with a tablespoon or tart tamper to form a bowl shape. Let the cookie cups cool completely in the pan.
- Make Nutella mousse: In a mixing bowl, combine Nutella and softened cream cheese. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping into the Nutella mixture until fully incorporated and light.
- Fill cookie cups: Carefully transfer the cooled cookie cups to a serving platter or cutting board. Pipe the Nutella mousse filling into each cookie cup.
- Chill and serve: Refrigerate the filled cookie cups to let the mousse set slightly before serving. Enjoy chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or crème fraîche for a slightly different creamy texture.
- Use a tart tamper or the back of a tablespoon to create the cookie bowl shape without breaking the cookies.
- Store finished cookie cups in the refrigerator to maintain the Nutella mousse filling freshness.
- These cookie cups serve great as party appetizers or sweet bite-sized desserts.
- To make preparation easier, use a piping bag for filling the cookie cups neatly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
