Gooey Nutella chocolate bombs are a dreamy treat for anyone who loves rich chocolate and creamy hazelnut spread. Each bite features a smooth chocolate shell wrapped around a luscious Nutella center that melts in your mouth. These bite-sized desserts look impressive, taste delicious, and are surprisingly simple to make at home.
This easy Nutella chocolate bombs recipe uses just a handful of ingredients and requires no complicated baking techniques. The combination of melted chocolate, creamy hazelnut spread, and a soft, indulgent center makes these treats perfect for parties, holiday dessert trays, afternoon cravings, or homemade edible gifts. Serve them chilled for a satisfying chocolate snap and a creamy filling.
Why You’ll Love These Nutella Chocolate Bombs
- Rich chocolate flavor: A chocolate shell surrounds a creamy hazelnut filling for an indulgent dessert.
- Gooey Nutella center: The soft filling creates a delicious contrast with the firm outer chocolate.
- No oven required: These chocolate bombs are prepared without baking.
- Simple ingredients: You only need a few easy-to-find ingredients.
- Perfect for special occasions: Their glossy finish makes them lovely for parties, celebrations, and dessert platters.
- Easy to customize: Add crushed hazelnuts, cookie crumbs, or a drizzle of white chocolate.
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepare them in advance and chill until ready to serve.
Ingredients for Gooey Nutella Chocolate Bombs
This recipe makes approximately 12 small chocolate bombs, depending on the size of your mold.
For the Chocolate Shells
- 300 g semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped or chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil, optional, to help thin the chocolate
For the Nutella Filling
- ½ cup (150 g) Nutella or chocolate hazelnut spread
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) cream cheese, softened, for a slightly tangy, creamy filling
- 2 tablespoons (15 g) powdered sugar, optional, for extra sweetness
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped roasted hazelnuts, optional, for crunch
For Decoration
- 30 g white chocolate, optional
- 1 tablespoon crushed hazelnuts or chocolate sprinkles, optional
Ingredient tip: Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor and shell texture. If you prefer a firmer, more stable chocolate shell at room temperature, temper the chocolate instead of relying on coconut oil alone.
Equipment Needed
- Silicone half-sphere chocolate mold
- Microwave-safe bowl or heatproof bowl
- Spatula or spoon
- Small piping bag or zip-top bag, optional
- Refrigerator
- Small saucepan, if using a double boiler
- Small plate or tray
How to Make Gooey Nutella Chocolate Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate
Finely chop the semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is mostly melted.
Continue stirring until the remaining pieces melt and the chocolate becomes smooth. If needed, add the optional coconut oil and mix well.
Alternatively, melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of gently simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water, and keep water away from the chocolate.
For a glossy, crisp shell that holds up better at room temperature, temper the chocolate using a suitable chocolate-tempering method.
Step 2: Coat the Chocolate Molds
Spoon a little melted chocolate into each half-sphere cavity of the silicone mold. Use the back of a small spoon or a pastry brush to spread the chocolate evenly across the bottom and sides.
Make sure there are no thin spots, especially around the edges. A sturdy shell is important because it needs to hold the filling without cracking.
Place the mold in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
Step 3: Add a Second Chocolate Layer
Check the shells carefully. If any areas look thin or transparent, apply another layer of melted chocolate.
Return the mold to the refrigerator for another 10–15 minutes, until the shells are completely set. Thicker shells are easier to remove from the mold and less likely to break during assembly.
Step 4: Prepare the Nutella Filling
In a small bowl, combine the Nutella and softened cream cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar if a sweeter filling is desired. Fold in the chopped roasted hazelnuts for extra crunch.
For a richer chocolate-hazelnut flavor, keep the filling simple with Nutella alone. If the mixture is too soft to handle, chill it for 10–15 minutes before filling the shells.
Step 5: Fill the Chocolate Shells
Carefully remove the chocolate shells from the silicone mold. Handle them gently and avoid holding them for too long, as the warmth of your hands can soften the chocolate.
Spoon or pipe the Nutella mixture into each shell, filling it about three-quarters full. Leave a little space at the top so the shells can be sealed neatly.
Avoid overfilling, because filling along the edges can prevent the two halves from joining securely.
Step 6: Seal the Chocolate Bombs
Warm the edge of an empty chocolate shell briefly against a warm plate, or lightly touch the rim with a little melted chocolate.
Place the warmed edge against the filled shell and press the two halves together gently. If needed, use a small amount of melted chocolate around the seam to seal it.
Work carefully to avoid breaking the shells. If the chocolate becomes too soft, place the pieces in the refrigerator for a few minutes before continuing.
Step 7: Chill Until Firm
Arrange the assembled Nutella chocolate bombs on a tray lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes, or until the seams are firm and the bombs hold their shape.
Chilling also helps the filling settle inside the chocolate shell.
Step 8: Decorate and Serve
Melt the white chocolate in short microwave intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle it over the chilled chocolate bombs using a spoon or piping bag.
Sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts, chocolate sprinkles, or a little finely grated chocolate before the drizzle sets.
Allow the decoration to firm up, then serve the Nutella chocolate bombs chilled or slightly cool for the best texture.
Tips for the Best Gooey Nutella Chocolate Bombs
- Use completely dry equipment: Even a small amount of water can cause melted chocolate to seize and become grainy.
- Melt chocolate slowly: Short microwave intervals and frequent stirring help prevent scorching.
- Make the shells thick enough: Apply a second layer if the first coat looks thin.
- Let each layer set: Firm shells are easier to remove from the mold without cracking.
- Avoid overfilling: Leave room around the rim so the halves can seal properly.
- Keep the seams clean: Wipe away excess filling before sealing the chocolate shells.
- Work in a cool room: Warm hands and high room temperatures can soften the shells.
- Temper chocolate for a glossy finish: Tempering improves shine, snap, and stability at room temperature.
- Chill before decorating: A firm surface makes it easier to add neat chocolate drizzles.
- Serve in small portions: These chocolate treats are rich, so one or two are often enough to satisfy a sweet craving.
Variations and Substitutions
Nutella Chocolate Bombs With Crunchy Hazelnuts
Add 2–3 tablespoons of finely chopped roasted hazelnuts to the filling. The nuts add crunch and enhance the chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
White Chocolate Nutella Bombs
Replace the semi-sweet chocolate shell with white chocolate. White chocolate is sweeter and softer, so temper it properly for the best finish.
Dark Chocolate Nutella Bombs
Use dark chocolate with around 60–70% cocoa for a deeper, less sweet flavor. This variation balances the sweet Nutella filling nicely.
Nutella Cookie Crumb Bombs
Fold 2 tablespoons of finely crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate biscuits into the filling. This creates a thicker, slightly crunchy center.
Nutella Peanut Butter Bombs
Mix 1 tablespoon of smooth peanut butter into the Nutella filling. The combination adds a nutty flavor and creates a richer center.
Dairy-Free Nutella-Style Chocolate Bombs
Use a dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread and dairy-free chocolate. Skip the cream cheese or replace it with a suitable dairy-free alternative. Always check ingredient labels to confirm that the products meet your dietary needs.
Nutella Chocolate Bombs Without Cream Cheese
Simply fill the chocolate shells with Nutella on its own. For a firmer filling, chill the spread briefly before piping it into the shells. The center will be richer and more intensely hazelnut-flavored.
What to Serve With Nutella Chocolate Bombs
These chocolate treats are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with simple drinks and other desserts.
- Fresh strawberries: Their fruity freshness balances the rich chocolate filling.
- Sliced bananas: A classic companion to chocolate hazelnut spread.
- Hot coffee: Unsweetened coffee complements the sweetness of the bombs.
- Hot chocolate: Perfect for a cozy chocolate-themed dessert spread.
- Vanilla ice cream: Serve a chocolate bomb alongside a small scoop for an extra-indulgent dessert.
- Whipped cream: A light, airy topping provides a contrast to the firm chocolate shell.
- Fresh raspberries: Their tart flavor pairs beautifully with chocolate and hazelnut.
How to Store Nutella Chocolate Bombs
Refrigerating
Place the chocolate bombs in an airtight container and refrigerate. Because this version contains cream cheese, keep the bombs refrigerated and consume them within 3–4 days.
For the best texture, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving, provided the room is cool.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the chocolate bombs in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month for the best quality.
Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid moving them directly from the freezer into a warm room, as condensation can form on the chocolate surface.
Serving and Handling
Keep the bombs chilled until ready to serve, especially because the filling contains cream cheese. Do not leave them at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour in very hot conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are Nutella chocolate bombs?
Nutella chocolate bombs are bite-sized chocolate treats made with a chocolate shell and a creamy hazelnut filling. They can be decorated with melted chocolate, nuts, or sprinkles and served as a no-bake dessert.
2. Do Nutella chocolate bombs need to be baked?
No. This recipe does not require an oven. The chocolate is melted, shaped in silicone molds, filled, sealed, and chilled until firm.
3. Why are my chocolate shells breaking?
The shells may be too thin, not fully set, or handled while too warm. Apply two layers of chocolate, chill them until firm, and gently remove them from the mold.
4. How do I make the chocolate shells shiny?
Tempering the chocolate is the most reliable way to create a shiny finish and a crisp snap. Simply melting and chilling chocolate may produce a duller surface or cause it to soften more easily at room temperature.
5. Can I make Nutella chocolate bombs without a silicone mold?
A silicone half-sphere mold is the easiest option. Without one, small chocolate molds or sturdy candy molds can work, but the shape and release may be less consistent. Use molds designed for food contact.
6. Can I use Nutella without cream cheese?
Yes. Nutella can be used on its own as the filling. It creates a rich, smooth center and removes the need for cream cheese, although the texture will be softer.
7. How long do Nutella chocolate bombs take to set?
The chocolate shells generally need 10–15 minutes per layer in the refrigerator. Once assembled, allow another 15–20 minutes for the seams to firm up. Exact timing depends on shell thickness and refrigerator temperature.
8. Can Nutella chocolate bombs be made ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare them a day or two ahead, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and decorate before serving if desired. Keep them chilled because the filling contains cream cheese.
9. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes. Milk chocolate gives the shells a sweeter, creamier flavor. Because it is sweeter than semi-sweet chocolate, dark or semi-sweet chocolate may be a better choice if you want to balance the sweet filling.
10. Why is my melted chocolate thick or grainy?
Chocolate can become thick or grainy if overheated or exposed to water. Use a dry bowl and utensils, melt slowly, and stir frequently. If water accidentally enters the bowl, the chocolate may seize and become unsuitable for making smooth shells.
11. Are Nutella chocolate bombs suitable for gifting?
Yes. Once fully set, place them in small paper candy cups inside a food-safe gift box. Keep the box cool during transport and let the recipient know that the treats contain a cream cheese filling and should be refrigerated.
12. Can I make these chocolate bombs nut-free?
Traditional Nutella contains hazelnuts, so it is not suitable for people with hazelnut allergies. A chocolate spread specifically labeled nut-free may be used instead, but check all ingredients and cross-contact warnings carefully.
Conclusion
Gooey Nutella chocolate bombs are a simple, no-bake dessert that combines a crisp chocolate shell with a creamy chocolate-hazelnut center. With a handful of ingredients, silicone molds, and a little chilling time, these bite-sized treats are easy to prepare for parties, celebrations, or everyday chocolate cravings.
Use thick chocolate shells, seal the edges carefully, and keep the finished bombs chilled for the best results. Add a drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts to create a beautiful homemade dessert that tastes as good as it looks.
