Indulgent Vegan Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chunk Skillet Cookie: The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Dessert for Two
As much as I adore a good meal out, Valentine’s Day at a restaurant can often feel like a forced romantic marathon rather than a delightful celebration. The bustling crowds, the predictably uninspired and overpriced set menus, and that peculiar pressure to be perfectly enchanting – it all dampens the mood for me. Instead, I find true romance in the comfort of my own home, sharing a delicious, lovingly prepared meal with my partner, perhaps accompanied by a fine bottle of wine or some expertly crafted cocktails. There’s something uniquely intimate and authentic about a quiet evening in, focused purely on each other.
However, life often throws delightful curveballs. This year, with two birthday parties scheduled the day before Valentine’s, it’s highly probable that my partner and I will be too exhausted (and perhaps a little hungover) to even contemplate cooking. But if a kind soul were to magically appear and offer to whip up something special, there’s one dessert that would instantly win my heart: this incredible **Mini Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chunk Skillet Cookie**. It’s the kind of effortless indulgence that screams “celebration” without any of the fuss, making it an ideal candidate for a relaxed yet romantic Valentine’s Day dessert or any special occasion you want to elevate with minimal effort and maximum flavour.
The Skillet Cookie Experience: Crispy, Chewy, and Utterly Gooey
Imagine a cookie that embodies perfection: wonderfully crispy and chewy around its golden edges, yet incredibly soft and deeply gooey in its very heart. Now, elevate that dream to an even higher plane by introducing a generous, molten layer of rich Nutella nestled within. This isn’t just any cookie; it’s a **skillet cookie** (or “pizookie” as some delightfully call it), designed for direct-from-the-pan enjoyment. Served warm from the oven, crowned with a decadent scoop of your favourite vegan vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of warmed vegan Nutella, this dessert transcends ordinary indulgence. It’s pure, unadulterated pleasure, perfect for sharing intimately with a loved one on Valentine’s Day or any evening that calls for a truly special treat. Forget the formality of plates and cutlery; the beauty of a skillet cookie lies in its communal, relaxed nature – just grab your spoons and dig straight in. Why create extra washing up when you can focus on savoring every single bite?
While I confidently declare this a dessert that “serves two,” it does so with immense generosity. You might even find yourselves with delicious leftovers (a tragedy? I think not!). This magnificent creation can be easily refrigerated and gently re-warmed, or, for those who appreciate its charm, it’s equally delightful eaten cold. And who knows, perhaps your Valentine’s celebration includes three or four cherished friends? This recipe scales beautifully, making it suitable for a small gathering of loved ones – no judgment here, only more deliciousness to go around!
A Note on Perfection: Patience is Key for Molten Centers
When I say “warm from the oven,” I don’t mean diving in the very instant it emerges from the heat. While the anticipation is almost unbearable, a crucial step for optimal enjoyment – and safety – is to allow your **chocolate chunk skillet cookie** a moment to cool. Give it a good fifteen minutes, or even twenty, to rest. This brief pause allows the cookie to firm up slightly, creating that perfect balance of crispy edges and gooey center, while also preventing any accidental burns from the molten Nutella filling. Trust me, a scorched tongue would not contribute to a romantic Valentine’s Day! I personally prefer to bake mine in a sturdy 6-inch cast iron skillet, which imparts a wonderful crust and even heat distribution. However, if a cast iron skillet isn’t part of your kitchen arsenal, a pie dish or a small cake tin will work beautifully to achieve a similar, deeply satisfying result. The goal is a warm, decadent dessert that brings pure joy, not pain.
Mini Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chunk Skillet Cookie For Two (vegan)
Ingredients
- 55 g (¼ cup) vegan block butter softened
- 40 g (3 ½ Tablespoons) light brown soft sugar
- 35 g (scant 3 Tablespoons) caster or granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon non-dairy milk
- 90 g (¾ cup) plain flour
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- 75 g (2.75 oz) dark chocolate, chopped into chunks (or use chocolate chips)
- 3 Tablespoons vegan nutella/chocolate hazelnut spreaad
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 180°C/160℃ fan/350°F/gas mark 4. Grease a 6 in cast iron skillet.
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Beat the butter and sugars together with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat again to combine.55 g (¼ cup) vegan block butter, 40 g (3 ½ Tablespoons) light brown soft sugar, 35 g (scant 3 Tablespoons) caster or granulated sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 Tablespoon non-dairy milk
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Add the flour and baking powder and mix until it forms a dough, then tip in the chocolate and mix until evenly distributed.90 g (¾ cup) plain flour, ¼ teaspoon baking powder, 75 g (2.75 oz) dark chocolate, chopped into chunks (or use chocolate chips)
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Spread about half of the mixture across the base of the skillet, pressing it out with your fingers, so that it is completely covered in a thin layer of dough.
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Spread the nutella on top of the dough using the back of a spoon, leaving a 1.5cm border of cookie dough around the edge.3 Tablespoons vegan nutella/chocolate hazelnut spreaad
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Use your fingers to flatten pieces of the remaining cookie dough and press them on top of the mixture in the skillet, try to press them together to create an even layer and make sure that the nutella is covered.
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Bake the cookie for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy around the edges, the middle should still be a little soft but it will firm up as it cools. Allow the cookie to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving, topped with a dollop of ice cream and a drizzle of warm nutella.
Why This Vegan Skillet Cookie is a Must-Try Dessert
Beyond its sheer deliciousness, this **vegan Nutella stuffed chocolate chunk skillet cookie** offers several compelling reasons to make it your go-to dessert for any special occasion, or simply when a craving strikes. Firstly, it’s incredibly satisfying to bake. The process is straightforward, yielding impressive results that look far more complicated than they actually are. This makes it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners looking to create something truly spectacular without undue stress.
Secondly, the combination of textures and flavors is simply unmatched. The robust, slightly bitter dark chocolate chunks perfectly complement the sweet, creamy hazelnut spread. When baked, the chocolate chunks melt into gooey pockets, while the Nutella center becomes a warm, liquid surprise waiting to be discovered with each spoonful. The contrast between the crisp cookie edges and the soft, molten interior is a culinary delight that appeals to every sense.
Thirdly, its vegan nature makes it accessible to a wider audience without compromising on taste or indulgence. Using vegan butter and non-dairy milk ensures that everyone can enjoy this heavenly dessert, making it an inclusive choice for entertaining or for couples with dietary preferences. You don’t have to sacrifice flavor to enjoy a plant-based treat; in fact, many find vegan bakes to be even more tender and flavourful.
Finally, the “skillet” presentation elevates the entire experience. There’s an undeniable charm and rustic elegance to serving a dessert directly in its baking vessel. It encourages sharing, fostering a sense of togetherness and warmth. It’s a dessert that invites conversation, laughter, and a relaxed atmosphere – exactly what you want for a memorable occasion like Valentine’s Day, or just a cozy night in.
I am delighted to share this incredible recipe with the vibrant culinary community at Saucy Saturdays, hosted by The Flavour Bender, Take Two Tapas, La Petit Chef and Mid-Life Croissant. Additionally, you can find this indulgent treat featured at Fiesta Friday, hosted by Ginger And Bread and Cooking With A Wallflower, Foodie FriDIY, Foodie Friends Friday, Friday Favourites and Friday Features. Enjoy baking this ultimate **Nutella stuffed skillet cookie** and creating your own memorable moments!
