Sugar Free Nutella Cookies
Indulging in a sweet treat doesn’t have to mean compromising on health or flavor. These Sugar Free Nutella Cookies are the perfect example of how you can satisfy your sweet tooth without added sugars. Made with rich hazelnut butter and cocoa powder, these cookies are a delightful blend of nuttiness and chocolate that will have you coming back for more. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a great choice for a quick snack or dessert.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What truly makes these Sugar Free Nutella Cookies stand out is their simplicity and the fact that they harness the natural flavors of hazelnuts without the need for refined sugars or unhealthy additives. The nut butter provides healthy fats, while the cacao powder offers that rich chocolate flavor we crave. They are not only sugar-free but also have a chewy, fudgy texture that is simply irresistible.
Ingredient Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients in this delectable recipe:
- Hazelnut Butter (150g): The star ingredient that lends a creamy texture and a nutty flavor. Make sure to drain most of the oil before measuring.
- Granulated Sweetener (90g): A sugar substitute that keeps the cookies sweet without the calories of sugar. Choose one that fits your dietary preferences.
- Cacao Powder (22g): Rich in flavor and antioxidants, cacao powder adds depth and a rich chocolatey essence to the cookies.
- Large Egg: Acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the cookies together while also adding moisture.
- Pinch of Sea Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness, bringing out the best in every bite.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): A splash of vanilla adds warmth and complements the other flavors beautifully.
Essential Tools for Success
Before you start baking, gather these essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience:
- Mixing Bowl: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfect cookies.
- Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Spatula: For mixing and scooping the cookie dough.
- Oven: Make sure it’s preheated to the right temperature before baking.
Sugar Free Nutella Cookies: How It’s Done
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful cookies.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop a lovely golden color.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the 150g of hazelnut butter with the 90g of granulated sweetener. Use a spatula to mix them until well combined and creamy. If you’re opting for vanilla extract, add it at this stage.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack in the large egg and mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. The egg will help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the 22g of cacao powder and a pinch of sea salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms. It should be a bit sticky but manageable.
Step 5: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should look set while the centers may appear a bit soft. This is perfect as they will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Sugar Free Nutella Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Dietary Swaps & Alternatives
If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, consider these swaps:
- Nut Butter: Use almond butter, peanut butter, or sun butter for a different flavor profile.
- Granulated Sweetener: Substitute with coconut sugar, monk fruit sweetener, or stevia for a different sweetness level.
- Cacao Powder: Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a milder flavor but may alter the color slightly.
- Egg Substitute: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.
Things That Go Wrong
Baking can be tricky, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Too much oil in the hazelnut butter can lead to greasy cookies. Always drain excess oil before measuring.
- Not mixing ingredients thoroughly can result in uneven texture. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the texture. Always preheat your oven properly.
- Overbaking will yield hard cookies. Keep an eye on them to ensure they remain soft and chewy.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
These Sugar Free Nutella Cookies are perfect for meal prep or making ahead of time. Here’s how to store them:
You can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months.
To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, until warmed through.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use a different type of sweetener?
Yes! You can use any granulated sweetener that you prefer. Just keep in mind that some sweeteners may have a different level of sweetness, so adjust accordingly.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should look set and slightly firm, while the center may still look soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg or another egg replacer of your choice for a vegan version.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If the cookies are spreading excessively, it might be due to too much moisture or not enough flour. Ensure you are measuring accurately and draining oil from the hazelnut butter appropriately.
Serve with These
Pair your Sugar Free Nutella Cookies with these delightful options for a complete treat experience:
Final Thoughts
These Sugar Free Nutella Cookies are a guilt-free pleasure that everyone can enjoy. They are simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a dessert to impress your friends, these cookies hit the mark. Try them out and see how easily you can make a delicious treat without sugar. Happy baking!
Sugar Free Nutella Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine hazelnut butter and granulated sweetener until creamy. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Step 3: Crack in the egg and mix until smooth and well combined.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together cacao powder and sea salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients, stirring until a thick dough forms.
- Step 5: Scoop and shape the dough onto a prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
- Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
- Step 7: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freeze cookies for up to three months for longer storage.
- Reheat in the microwave or a preheated oven before serving.
