Decadent Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Indulge in the delightful world of Nutella Hazelnut Brownies – a heavenly marriage of rich chocolate, creamy Nutella, and toasted hazelnuts that will elevate your brownie game to new heights. These decadent treats are a symphony of flavors and textures, boasting a fudgy center, crackly crust, and crunchy nutty surprises in every bite.

I recently whipped up a batch of these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies for a family gathering, and let me tell you, they were an instant hit! The aroma of toasted hazelnuts wafting from the oven lured everyone to the kitchen, eager to get a taste of these irresistible delights. Even my aunt, who usually steers clear of desserts, couldn’t resist indulging in these scrumptious brownies and asked for the recipe.

Just like my grandma used to say, good things come to those who wait, especially when it comes to brownies. These Nutella Hazelnut Brownies are no exception – be sure to exercise patience and let them cool completely before cutting into them. Trust me, the anticipation will be well worth it once you sink your teeth into the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and nutty undertones.

So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out on your culinary journey, these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies are a must-try. They strike the ideal balance between sophistication and comfort, making them suitable for any occasion, from casual snacking to elegant gatherings. Get ready to elevate your brownie game and create unforgettable moments with each delectable bite of these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies.

Quick Benefits

Decadent and Nutty Flavor: The combination of Nutella and toasted hazelnuts creates a rich, chocolate-hazelnut flavor profile that enhances the brownies’ taste.
Textural Contrast: These brownies offer a delightful mix of a slightly crisp top layer and a soft, fudgy center filled with crunchy toasted hazelnuts, providing a satisfying textural experience.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed, these brownies exhibit different textures and flavors, making them adaptable to various preferences and occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Nutella Hazelnut Brownies Recipe

Decadent Chocolate-Hazelnut Flavor: The combination of Nutella, toasted hazelnuts, and semisweet chocolate chips creates a rich and indulgent taste experience.
Multiple Layers of Nutty Goodness: The toasted hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor that complements the fudgy brownie texture.
Contrasting Textures: The fudgy middle, crackly crust, and crunchy hazelnut topping create a satisfying contrast with each bite.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy cold for a truffle-like experience, at room temperature for a fudgy treat, or slightly warmed for a gooey delight.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrap individual squares in parchment paper and gift in a tin for a thoughtful and delicious present.
Baking Tips for Success: Tips like using a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture and adjusting baking time based on oven type ensure perfect brownies every time.
Seasonal Pairings: Elevate the brownie experience by serving with complementary flavors like fresh raspberries and mint in summer or lavender-infused whipped cream in spring.
Balancing Flavors and Textures: Learn the art of balancing flavors and textures with everyday ingredients to create a truly unforgettable brownie.

Ingredients for Decadent Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Main Components

4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped up
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
⅓ cup Nutella (the sweet chocolate-hazelnut spread)
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1¾ cups semisweet chocolate chips, split
3 large eggs

Dry Mixture

⅔ cup plain flour
1¼ cups hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped, split
½ tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Pro Tips for Decadent Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Pro Tip 1: Patience is key when making these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies. Remember to let them cool completely before cutting to achieve that perfect fudgy texture. Resisting the temptation to cut into them too soon will ensure a gooey center and a crackly crust.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different serving methods to discover your favorite way to enjoy these brownies. Whether you prefer them cold, at room temperature, or slightly warmed, each variation offers a unique eating experience. Also, try storing them with a slice of bread to maintain their moisture and freshness for longer periods.

Pro Tip 3: Make the most of the flavors and textures in these brownies by serving them with complementary ingredients based on the season. From fresh raspberries and mint in the summer to lavender-infused whipped cream in the spring, these pairings enhance the chocolate-hazelnut goodness of the brownies.

How to Make Decadent Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Step 1: Ready Your Tools

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a 9-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there is excess hanging over the sides, and lightly spray with nonstick spray.

Step 2: Make Chocolate Mix

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt butter, chopped chocolate, and 1 cup of chocolate chips until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla, sugar, and Nutella until smooth. Pour the mixture into the cooled chocolate mixture and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add Dry Mix

Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold into the chocolate batter. Stir in remaining chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped hazelnuts.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Evenly spread the batter in the pan and sprinkle the remaining hazelnuts on top. Bake for 40 minutes, then cover the pan with foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until mostly set. Allow to cool completely before cutting.

Storage Tips

Once the Nutella Hazelnut Brownies are baked and cooled completely, it is important to store them properly to maintain their texture and flavor. To keep the brownies fresh and prevent them from drying out, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Placing a slice of bread in the container alongside the brownies can help maintain their moisture level, ensuring they remain fudgy and delicious. Remember to swap out the bread every couple of days to continue preserving the brownies’ texture.

If you prefer a different eating experience, you can explore different serving temperatures for the brownies. Keeping them in the refrigerator will give them a truffle-like consistency, while serving them at room temperature allows for a perfectly fudgy texture. For a gooey treat, slightly warm the brownies before serving. Experimenting with the serving temperature can provide various ways to enjoy these decadent chocolate-hazelnut brownies depending on personal preferences and occasions.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to make a slight adjustment to the sweetness or flavor profile of these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies, you could consider using dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate. Dark chocolate has a more intense and slightly bitter flavor that can complement the sweetness of the Nutella. You can use the same amount of dark chocolate as called for in the recipe.

For a nut-free version of these brownies, you can swap out the hazelnuts for another type of nut or omit them entirely. Walnuts or pecans would work well as substitutes for hazelnuts, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. If you prefer a nut-free option, you can simply leave out the hazelnuts altogether without compromising the overall structure of the brownies.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and interactive way to serve these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies at your next gathering, consider setting up a DIY brownie sundae station. Provide warm brownie squares alongside an array of toppings like whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, chopped nuts, and fresh berries. Let your guests customize their own decadent creations for a memorable dessert experience.

To elevate the presentation of these rich and nutty brownies, consider layering them in a trifle dish with alternating layers of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese. Top the trifle with a drizzle of warm Nutella and a sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts for a stunning dessert that will wow your guests visually and satisfy their sweet tooth with each spoonful.

FAQs for Decadent Nutella Hazelnut Brownies

Can I substitute Nutella with another type of chocolate spread?

While Nutella is the recommended chocolate-hazelnut spread for this recipe, you can try using a different brand. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the brand you choose.

How long should I let the brownies cool before cutting them?

For the best results, it’s recommended to let the brownies cool completely before cutting them. This allows the brownies to set properly and ensures a clean cut without the edges crumbling.

What if I don’t have hazelnuts on hand?

If you don’t have hazelnuts, you can try substituting them with another type of nut, such as walnuts or pecans. The nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the brownies, so feel free to use your favorite nut variety.

How should I store the brownies to keep them fresh?

To keep the brownies fresh and prevent them from drying out, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also follow the tip of placing a slice of bread in the container to help maintain the moisture of the brownies.

Conclusion

As you embark on your Nutella Hazelnut Brownie baking journey, remember that patience truly is a virtue when it comes to creating these delectable treats. Letting them cool completely and savoring each bite will only enhance your appreciation for the layers of rich flavors and textures these brownies offer.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these Nutella Hazelnut Brownies are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family. The combination of Nutella, toasted hazelnuts, and gooey chocolate creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone reaching for seconds.

So take your time, enjoy the process, and savor the sweet rewards of your labor. These Nutella Hazelnut Brownies are not just a dessert—they are a testament to the magic that can happen in your kitchen when you infuse simple ingredients with love and care. Happy baking!