Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
There’s something irresistibly delightful about a batch of homemade brownies, especially when they come with the rich, decadent twist of chocolate hazelnut spread. These Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies transform a classic dessert into a luxurious treat, where every bite is packed with fudgy goodness and a hint of nutty flavor. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet evenings at home, these brownies are bound to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests.
Creating these brownies is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while yielding maximum satisfaction. The star ingredient, chocolate hazelnut spread, infuses the brownies with a delightful creaminess and a nutty depth, making them incredibly rich. Whether you enjoy them warm out of the oven or cold from the fridge, these brownies provide an indulgent experience that every chocolate lover will cherish. Let’s delve into the details of making these delicious treats.
Why make this recipe
Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies are not just another dessert; they are a celebration of flavors and textures that enhances the experience of traditional brownies. The combination of rich chocolate and roasted hazelnuts creates an irresistible taste sensation that captivates the senses. This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and speed. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them an ideal choice for spontaneous cravings or last-minute gatherings.
Additionally, these brownies are incredibly versatile. You can customize the recipe to suit your preferences, whether you want to add nuts for crunch, sprinkle sea salt on top for contrast, or even fold in some chocolate chunks for an extra indulgent bite. The texture is perfectly balanced, combining a slightly crusty exterior with a luscious, fudgy interior. They are perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of ice cream for an extra decadent treat.
How to make Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
Making Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies is a straightforward process that doesn’t require any advanced baking skills, yet it yields stunning results. Start by preheating your oven, as this ensures the brownies cook evenly. A square baking tin lined with nonstick paper helps prevent the brownies from sticking, making for easy removal once they have cooled.
Mixing the ingredients is simple. Combine the chocolate hazelnut spread with eggs using an electric hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. This step is crucial because it lays the foundation for the brownies’ rich flavor and texture. Once the eggs and spread are blended, gently add the flour and fold it in, being careful not to overmix, which could lead to denser brownies. The batter should be thick and glossy before you pour it into the prepared tin.
After spreading the batter evenly, allow the brownies to bake until they form a delicate crackly crust on top. The baking time is relatively short, but let them cool completely before cutting. For those who prefer a fudgier brownie, chilling them in the refrigerator overnight can elevate the texture further. This process allows the flavors to meld together harmoniously, creating a more intense hazelnut chocolate experience.
Ingredients
- 370g (1¼ cups) chocolate hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
- 2 large eggs
- 65g (½ cup) plain (all-purpose) flour
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas, 4. Line a 20cm (8in) square baking tin with nonstick baking paper.
- Add the chocolate hazelnut spread and eggs to a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric hand mixer until fully combined.
- Add the flour and fold in with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Scoop the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake for 20 minutes until a light, crackly crust forms. Cool completely in the tin for 2–3 hours, or chill in the refrigerator overnight (optional) for extra fudgy brownies. Cut into 16 squares and serve.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 20 minutes
• Chilling Time: Up to overnight
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes + cooling
• Servings: 16
How to serve Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
Serving Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies is an opportunity to get creative. You can enjoy these brownies plain, appreciating their rich flavor on their own. For a more extravagant presentation, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the cold ice cream to melt slightly into the warm brownie. Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce or caramel over the top can elevate the dish even more, adding a luscious component that enhances the overall eating experience.
Pairing the brownies with fresh fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, not only adds a beautiful contrast in color but also introduces a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the brownies. For a more sophisticated touch, dust them with icing sugar before serving or add a dollop of whipped cream. Regardless of how you choose to serve them, these brownies will undoubtedly steal the show.
How to store Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
To ensure your Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies stay fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Once the brownies have cooled completely, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain good for about three to four days, but keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out. If you prefer your brownies cold and extra fudgy, you can refrigerate them, where they will last even longer, up to a week.
For longer storage, consider freezing the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds. This method preserves their flavor and texture, making them just as delightful as when they were first baked.
Tips to make Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
To optimize your baking experience with Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies, consider a few helpful tips. First, selecting a high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread is key; the better the spread, the richer the brownies will taste. Moreover, it’s important to measure the ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale to weigh out the spread and flour will lead to better consistency in your brownies.
Be mindful of the mixing process; overmixing can incorporate too much air into the batter, resulting in a less fudgy texture. Fold in the flour gently until just combined to maintain the dense, moist interior. If you want a little textural contrast, adding chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chips into the batter will provide delightful bursts of flavor and crunch.
Lastly, if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, consider adding a spoonful of cocoa powder to the mix. This extra touch will deepen the chocolate notes and elevate the overall taste of the brownies. With these tips, you’ll create a batch of brownies that are not only delicious but also perfectly tailored to your preferences.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 140 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 17 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of flour?
A: Yes, you can experiment with gluten-free flour or whole wheat flour, but the texture may vary slightly.
Q: How can I make these brownies more decadent?
A: Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter before baking for an extra treat.
Q: Are these brownies suitable for a vegan diet?
A: To make them vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread.
Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
Ingredients
Brownie Ingredients
- 370 g 370g (1¼ cups) chocolate hazelnut spread e.g., Nutella
- 2 large 2 large eggs
- 65 g 65g (½ cup) plain (all-purpose) flour
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas, 4. Line a 20cm (8in) square baking tin with nonstick baking paper.
- Add the chocolate hazelnut spread and eggs to a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric hand mixer until fully combined.
- Add the flour and fold in with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Scoop the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly with the back of a spoon.
Baking
- Bake for 20 minutes until a light, crackly crust forms.
- Cool completely in the tin for 2–3 hours, or chill in the refrigerator overnight (optional) for extra fudgy brownies.
- Cut into 16 squares and serve.
