Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Name: Nutella Hazelnut Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter; ⅓ cup Nutella (chocolate hazelnut spread); 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1¾ cups semisweet chocolate chips, divided; 1¼ cups coarsely chopped hazelnuts, toasted, divided; ½ teaspoon salt; ⅔ cup all-purpose flour; ½ tablespoon baking powder

Author: Lora

Published: May 28, 2025

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Introduction to Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

When I think of comfort food, Nutella Hazelnut Brownies instantly come to mind. There’s something magical about a fudgy brownie, rich with chocolate and that unmistakable nutty flavor. If you’re a busy mom or professional like me, this recipe is the perfect solution to satisfy your sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Just imagine serving these delightful brownies to your family or friends. Their eyes will light up with joy, and you’ll feel that warm, fuzzy happiness of sharing something truly delicious! Let’s dive into this heavenly experience together.

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

You’ll adore these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies because they bring together simplicity and indulgence in every bite. They come together so quickly, making them a go-to when time is tight. Plus, the rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts creates a heavenly treat that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these brownies are bound to impress and disappear in no time!

Ingredients for Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Gathering the right ingredients is the step that makes cooking feel like a well-choreographed dance. For these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies, you’ll need a delightful mix of essential ingredients, each playing its part in creating that million-dollar flavor. The exact quantities are at the bottom of the article, but let me give you a quick rundown on what you’ll need.

Essential Ingredients

Eggs: These help bind everything together, adding a rich texture to the brownies.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a warm scent, elevating the chocolate experience.
Sugar: This sweetens the mix and enhances the fudgy consistency we crave.
Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness, making every bite melt in your mouth.
Nutella: The hero of our recipe! This chocolate hazelnut spread brings that irresistible creamy flavor.
Semisweet chocolate: Chopped and melted, it deepens the chocolatey goodness shall we say?
Chocolate chips: These morsels create pockets of gooey, melty bliss in each brownie.
Hazelnuts: Chopped and toasted, they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the dish.
Salt: Just a pinch! It helps to bring out the flavors in the brownies.
All-purpose flour: This gives structure to the brownies, so they don’t fall apart.
Baking powder: A little lift to ensure your brownies don’t feel too heavy.

Optional Ingredients and Substitutions

Nut butter: Swap Nutella for peanut butter or almond butter if you’re feeling adventurous.
Dairy-free chocolate: For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy chocolate and butter substitutes.
Chopped chocolate: Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate chips or bars to customize the flavor.
Spices: A pinch of cinnamon can add warmth, while espresso powder can enhance the chocolate flavor.
Gluten-free flour: Use a one-to-one baking blend to make these brownies gluten-free!

How to Make Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Now that you’ve rounded up all your ingredients, it’s time to bring this recipe to life. Making Nutella Hazelnut Brownies is almost like weaving a delicious tapestry. Each step adds a layer of flavor and texture, creating a treat that your taste buds will thank you for. Let’s explore the steps together!

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy texture. Next, grab a 9-inch square pan and line it with parchment paper. Allow the paper to hang over the edges; you’ll thank yourself later when you pull the brownies out. A quick spray of nonstick spray gives you added assurance that your brownies won’t stick!

Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a medium-sized pan over low heat, combine your unsalted butter, chopped semisweet chocolate, and 1 cup of the chocolate chips. Stir it gently, watching the magic happen as they melt together into a smooth, glossy mixture. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn. Once everything is melted and combined, let it cool slightly before moving to the next step. This prevents curdling when you add the eggs.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, Nutella, sugar, and vanilla extract. Go ahead and mix it until it’s nice and smooth. The Nutella will make it a bit thick, but don’t worry! Once the slightly cooled chocolate mixture joins this blend, you’ll see everything coming together beautifully. Make sure there are no lumps—smooth is the key.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is all about aeration and ensuring even mixing. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet batter. Don’t rush—gently fold it together until just combined. Now, toss in the rest of the chocolate chips and a cup of toasted hazelnuts for that delightful crunch. You’ll love how they enhance the texture!

Step 5: Bake the Brownies

With everything ready, pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the remaining chopped hazelnuts on top for a little extra flair. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. After this, cover the pan with foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes. This will help set the center while keeping the outer edges soft. Once done, let it cool completely in the pan. This key step ensures clean cuts and beautifully shaped brownies!

Tips for Success

Use room-temperature eggs for better incorporation into the batter.
Don’t skip lining the pan; it makes removal easy and mess-free.
Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them to avoid crumbling.
For a deeper flavor, use high-quality semisweet chocolate.
Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-savory twist.

Equipment Needed

9-inch square pan: Necessary for baking; a round pan will work in a pinch.
Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal; aluminum foil can also suffice.
Medium-sized pan: For melting chocolate; a microwave-safe bowl can be a quick alternative.
Mixing bowls: Both large and medium; any size will do as long as they’re sturdy.
Whisk: Perfect for mixing; a fork can also get the job done!

Variations

Nut-Free Brownies: Swap out the hazelnuts for a delightful mix of seeds like sunflower or pumpkin for crunch without the nuts.
Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based treat.
Mint Chocolate Brownies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle warm caramel sauce into the brownie batter for an indulgent sweet surprise in every bite.
Double Chocolate: For an extra chocolaty experience, increase the amount of semisweet chocolate or add white chocolate chips along with the standard ones.

Serving Suggestions

Ice Cream: Serve warm Nutella Hazelnut Brownies with a scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Fresh Berries: Add a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries to brighten the plate and balance the richness.
Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an elegant presentation.
Coffee or Tea: Pair these brownies with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a beautiful touch without overpowering the flavors.

FAQs about Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Can I use hazelnut flour instead of all-purpose flour?

While you can use hazelnut flour for a nuttier flavor, it will change the texture. I recommend sticking to all-purpose flour or a one-to-one gluten-free blend for the best results.

How do I store leftover brownies?

Keep your Nutella Hazelnut Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Just make sure they’re completely cool before storing them, or you’ll end up with a sticky mess!

Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer—just thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

What’s the best way to know when the brownies are done?

To check for doneness, you can use the toothpick method. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit as they cool!

Can I add other mix-ins to the brownies?

Definitely! Feel free to add a variety of mix-ins like white chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of your favorite nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baking Nutella Hazelnut Brownies is like creating a love letter to sweetness that you can savor. Each bite offers a warm hug of chocolate and the delightful crunch of hazelnuts, bringing a smile to everyone’s face. Whether it’s a hectic weeknight or a special celebration, these brownies will always stand out. It warms my heart to know they’re sharing joy with loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the delightful aroma fill your home. Trust me, every moment spent making these brownies is a moment well invested in happiness!