Serving Size: This recipe makes 3 cookies, perfect for a personal treat or sharing with friends.

If you're like us, finding that perfect cookie that melts in your mouth with rich chocolate goodness is nearly impossible—especially when you're looking for one with minimal ingredients. That’s why, when we tested this recipe during product testing, we fell in love at first bite. These Chocolate Cookies are the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers, with the perfect combination of gooey chocolate and soft cookie dough. The rich cocoa hazelnut spread melts beautifully in the middle, making these cookies indulgent yet simple. With minimal ingredients, they’re the perfect option for anyone craving a quick, fulfilling vegan treat.

The dough comes together quickly with a blend of flour, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a splash of plant-based milk, creating the ideal cookie base. The addition of Cocoa Hazelnut Spread gives each cookie a warm, melty center that's simply irresistible. The best part? The Cocoa Hazelnut Spread delivers that authentic hazelnut-chocolate flavor, all while being 100% plant-based and made with better ingredients.

Fun Fact about Hazelnuts and Italian Cuisine: In Italy, hazelnuts are a beloved ingredient, especially in desserts. The Piedmont region is particularly famous for its hazelnuts, known as "Tonda Gentile," which are used in iconic Italian treats like Gianduja—a rich chocolate-hazelnut spread that has inspired many brands. Hazelnuts add a unique nutty flavor and texture to Italian pastries, cakes, and chocolates, making them a staple in Italian sweet recipes!

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp flour
• 2 tbsp cacao powder
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp baking powder
• Around 3 tbsp plant-based milk (adjust to consistency)
• Cocoa Hazelnut Spread

Instructions:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   Combine flour, salt, cacao powder, and baking powder in a bowl.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
   Slowly add the maple syrup and plant-based milk to the dry ingredients and mix well until smooth.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   Scoop the cookie dough onto a piece of baking paper.
4. Add the Cocoa Hazelnut Spread:
   Place a small spoonful of Cocoa Hazelnut Spread in the middle of each cookie and cover with another scoop of dough.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
6. Serve:
   Allow the cookies to cool slightly and enjoy them warm with your favorite beverage.

These Chocolate Cookies are quick, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. The gooey center paired with the soft cookie exterior makes them a crowd favorite, and they’re the ideal sweet treat for anyone—even your friends won’t know they’re vegan! Try them today, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on Instagram using #VegalianoEats!

Tip: If you don’t want too much chocolate, try using pistachio spread instead for a different flavor profile. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for a sweet-salty touch!