Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey cookie that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. These Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies are a delectable treat that combines the crunch of pretzels with the rich, creamy goodness of Nutella. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your baking rotation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

When it comes to cookies, finding the perfect combination of textures and flavors is key. This Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies recipe does just that. The salty crunch of pretzels complements the sweet, smooth Nutella chips, creating a cookie that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Not only are these cookies easy to make, but they also cater to a range of taste preferences, making them perfect for family gatherings, parties, or just a cozy evening at home. Plus, who can resist that playful combination of sweet and salty?

What to Buy

To recreate these delightful cookies, here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

1 cup (8 oz) unsalted butter – ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing
1 cup (200 g) brown sugar – for a rich, caramel-like flavor
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with texture
2 large eggs – for structure and moisture
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances flavor
2 3/4 cups (330 g) all-purpose flour – the base of your cookie dough
2 teaspoons cornstarch – ensures a soft, chewy texture
1 teaspoon baking soda – helps cookies rise
1/2 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor
1 1/2 cups mini pretzels – broken into pieces for crunch
2 cups Nutella chips – keep in the freezer until ready to use for optimal texture

Gear Checklist

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

Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients
Electric mixer – to cream butter and sugars effectively
Measuring cups and spoons – accurate measurements are key to baking success
Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking
Cookie scoop or tablespoon – for evenly sized cookies
Cooling rack – to let cookies cool properly

Step-by-Step: Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Pretzels and Nutella Chips

Gently fold in the broken mini pretzels and frozen Nutella chips using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the texture.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop generous amounts of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, grab a cookie (or two) and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors!

Seasonal Spins

These cookies are versatile and can be adapted for different seasons and occasions. Consider trying these variations:

Autumn Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, fall flavor.
Holiday Cheer: Mix in festive sprinkles or holiday-themed chocolate chips during the winter season.
Summer Delight: Swap out pretzels for crushed graham crackers and add mini marshmallows for a s’mores-inspired cookie.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for an extra crunch.

Avoid These Traps

To ensure your Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies turn out perfectly, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Make sure your butter is at room temperature, as melted butter can change the cookie’s texture.
Avoid using stale pretzels; fresh ones will provide the best crunch and flavor.
Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

These cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate: Store baked cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freeze: Freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, simply place them on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheat: To bring back that fresh-baked taste, warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of Nutella chips?

Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips will work just fine, but keep in mind that they won’t have the same creamy texture that Nutella chips provide.

What can I use if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can replace it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. It helps achieve a similar texture but may not be as chewy.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, dried fruit, or different flavored chips, to customize the cookies to your taste.

One Pan, More Ideas

Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out these ideas:

In Closing

These Salted Pretzel and Nutella Chip Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy. They are not just cookies; they’re an experience that brings joy with every bite. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or after a day in the fridge, these cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a treat that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!