The holiday season brings out the best in our kitchens, and there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of fresh-baked cookies to make it feel truly special. Picture this: as soon as you step into your cozy home, the inviting aroma of spices dances through the air, and blissful anticipation builds with every passing minute. That’s the magic of my Nutella Stuffed Browned Butter Gingerbread Deep Dish Cookie—a decadent twist on a classic treat that will be the star of your festive gatherings.
Imagine crispy edges giving way to a gooey center—each bite revealing a luxurious layer of molten Nutella nestled within a delectable gingerbread framework, accented by the rich flavors of brown butter and aromatic spices. It’s the perfect dessert to impress guests or simply to indulge yourself after a long day. With just one skillet and a handful of ingredients, this easy-to-make treat combines the essence of holiday cheer and the comfort of home baking, ensuring everyone leaves your table with a smile and a happy belly. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why will you love this Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie?
Festive Delight: This cookie brings holiday flavors to life with its spicy gingerbread base and creamy Nutella center, creating a perfect centerpiece for gatherings.
Quick and Easy: Made in one skillet, it simplifies the baking process, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.
Incredible Texture: Experience the contrast of crispy edges and a warm, fudge-like center bursting with nutty richness.
Versatile Twist: Feel free to swap Nutella with peanut butter or add nuts to cater to your personal taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s for a festive party or a cozy night in, this cookie guarantees happy faces and satisfied appetites!
Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Butter – Adds richness and moisture; browning the butter enhances its flavor.
• Plain Flour – Provides structure to the cookie; all-purpose flour works if needed.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a lighter texture.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and complements the ginger flavors beautifully.
• Ground Ginger – The key spice for that classic gingerbread taste.
• Ground Cloves – Contributes to the signature gingerbread aroma.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and rich caramel notes for depth.
• White Sugar – Sweetens the cookie base perfectly.
• Egg – Binds all ingredients together; can substitute with flaxseed meal or applesauce if needed.
• Golden Syrup (or Molasses) – Adds sweetness and richness; light corn syrup can be a good substitute.
For the Filling and Topping
• Chocolate Chips – Provide delightful bursts of chocolate flavor; feel free to use milk or semi-sweet chips based on preference.
• Nutella (melted) – Infuses the cookie with a creamy, chocolate-hazelnut flavor; using homemade Nutella adds a personal touch.
This Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie combines rich flavors and festive cheer, ensuring a delightful treat for your holiday celebrations!
How to Make Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (176°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie dish or skillet with baking paper to prevent sticking.
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Brown the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir continuously until it turns frothy and golden brown, then let it cool to room temperature. This step enhances the cookie’s flavor.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt until well combined. These spices will create the aromatic base of your cookies.
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Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix the cooled browned butter with brown and white sugars, then whisk in the egg and golden syrup until everything is smooth and creamy.
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Create the dough: Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Fold half of the chocolate chips into the mixture for delightful bursts of flavor throughout.
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Layer the baking pan: Spread half of the dough evenly in the prepared skillet. Pour the melted Nutella over this layer, then carefully cover it with the remaining dough. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for extra sweetness.
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Bake the cookie: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The top should be set while the inside remains gooey—use a toothpick to check; it should come out semi-clean.
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Cool and serve: Let the cookie cool slightly before slicing it. Serve warm and consider pairing it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Optional: Drizzle some extra melted Nutella on top for added richness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Nutella Stuffed Browned Butter Gingerbread Deep Dish Skillet Cookie?
Warm, gooey, and rich, this festive cookie is just begging for some perfectly paired accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against the warm cookie, creating a delightful contrast that enhances every bite.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy touch to your cookie, balancing its richness and making each forkful feel indulgently festive.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over your cookie brings an extra layer of sweetness and richness, making it an irresistible treat for sweet lovers.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing balance to the decadent flavors of the cookie.
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Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a steaming cup of rich hot chocolate to sip alongside your cookie. The chocolatey warmth complements the Nutella, creating a blissful harmony of flavors.
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Chai Tea: Enjoy a fragrant cup of spiced chai tea that echoes the ginger and cinnamon notes in the cookie, enhancing its festive charm.
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Salted Caramel Brownies: For an extravagant dessert spread, pair it with fudgy salted caramel brownies that introduce a different texture and a burst of deep flavor.
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Nutella Dipping Sauce: Go all out and serve a side of melted Nutella for dipping. It offers an extra indulgent experience that any chocolate lover will adore.
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Holiday Eggnog: A glass of creamy eggnog spiced with nutmeg provides a festive toast that perfectly matches this seasonal cookie’s flavors, making your treat even more memorable.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Stuffed Browned Butter Gingerbread Deep Dish Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread half of the prepared dough in your skillet, layer with melted Nutella, and top with the remaining dough. Bake as directed, and you’ll enjoy a delightful, gooey treat that’s just as delicious as when made fresh. By prepping ahead, you can focus on enjoying the festivities instead of being stuck in the kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie
Room Temperature: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer to store them longer, place the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container where they will last up to a week. Just bring them back to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will remain good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cookie, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly-baked taste!
Expert Tips for Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Cookies
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Browning Butter: Make sure to watch the butter carefully as it browns; burnt butter will alter the flavor of your Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie.
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Dough Handling: Gently pat the cookie dough in the pan to ensure the Nutella gets fully covered; this prevents any burning of the exposed Nutella while baking.
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Pan Size Adjustments: If you prefer a less rich version, consider halving the recipe and using an 8-inch pie dish for a thinner cookie that still delights.
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Chocolate Varieties: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips—milk, dark, or semi-sweet—to match your flavor preferences with this delectable cookie.
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Cooling Time: Let the cookie cool slightly after baking, as this will allow it to firm up a bit, creating the perfect gooey texture and making it easier to slice.
Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie Variations
Feel free to explore some delightful twists on this festive favorite to make it uniquely yours!
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Peanut Butter: Swap Nutella for creamy or crunchy peanut butter for a different flavor profile that’s just as indulgent.
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Nutty Dreams: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added depth of flavor that complements the soft cookie.
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Spice it Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a seasonal twist that enhances the gingerbread taste.
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Chocolate Overload: Fold in different types of chocolate chips such as dark chocolate or white chocolate to elevate the richness of the cookie.
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Vegan Option: Use flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacement, and opt for plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make this treat vegan-friendly.
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Fruity Addition: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or cherries to add a pop of tartness and chewy texture amidst the rich sweetness.
With these variations, you can easily customize your cookie to match your taste or dietary preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser all season long!
Nutella Stuffed Browned Butter Gingerbread Deep Dish Cookie Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select the right spices for this cookie?
Absolutely! Fresh spices are key to bringing out the best flavors in your Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie. Look for ground spices that have a vibrant color and strong aroma. If your ground ginger or cinnamon smells faint, it’s time to replace them! Whole spices can also be ground at home for heightened flavor.
How should I store leftover Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie?
You can store any leftover cookie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you opt for longer storage, place it in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure it’s sealed well to keep it from drying out. When you’re ready to indulge again, allow it to come to room temperature or warm it slightly for the best experience!
Can I freeze my Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie?
Certainly! To freeze, wrap the entire cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then rewarm in the oven at 350°F (176°C) for about 10 minutes until it’s warmed through and gooey.
What if my cookie turns out too dry or crumbly?
If your cookie turns out drier than expected, it may be due to overmixing or too much flour. To prevent this next time, carefully measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup instead of scooping directly. Always mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined for a moister result! If you find a crumbly texture, consider serving it with a scoop of ice cream—it’s delicious and makes up for the texture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this cookie?
Very! If you need to accommodate allergies, consider substituting the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. While this cookie contains Nutella, which is fine for most, ensure your guests don’t have nut allergies. Always check labels for allergens, as some store-bought ingredients may contain traces of common allergens.
Can I use homemade Nutella in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using homemade Nutella adds a personal touch and unique flavor to your Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie. Just ensure it has a smooth consistency for easy layering. Homemade versions may also allow you to control sweetness and nut flavors, making it a fun project to enhance your cookie!
Nutella Stuffed Deep Dish Gingerbread Cookie Bliss Awaited
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie dish or skillet with baking paper.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it turns frothy and golden brown; cool to room temperature.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the cooled browned butter with brown and white sugars; whisk in the egg and golden syrup until smooth.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms; fold in half of the chocolate chips.
- Spread half of the dough in the skillet, pour melted Nutella over it, cover with remaining dough, and sprinkle with remaining chocolate chips.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is set but the inside remains gooey; use a toothpick to check.
- Let the cookie cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.