Nutella Brownies

Discover the ultimate recipe for Nutella Brownies. This recipe balances rich hazelnut flavor with deep chocolate notes, yielding a dessert that tastes as impressive as it looks. I created these brownies for family gatherings and special occasions. They are quick to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any chocolate lover. In this article, I will guide you through ingredients, step-by-step instructions, useful tips, and storage advice to help you achieve the perfect Nutella Brownies every time.

Why Nutella Brownies?

Nutella Brownies offer a twist on the classic chocolate dessert. The addition of Nutella not only brings a hazelnut charm but also makes the final product extra fudgy. Here are some reasons why you will love these brownies:

Rich Flavor Profile: The subtle blend of Nutella with semisweet chocolate chips creates a multi-layered taste.
Decadent Texture: The contrast of a shiny, crackly top with a tender, moist interior makes every bite delightful.
Simple Ingredients: Most of the components are readily available in your pantry, which means you do not need to go on a long grocery run.
Versatility: Serve them warm with ice cream or enjoy them cold as an on-the-go treat.

I invite you to explore how simple ingredients can transform into a luxurious dessert. Now, let’s dive deeper into every detail.

Ingredients: What You Need

For a successful batch of Nutella Brownies, gathering quality ingredients is the first step. Here’s a complete list along with a brief explanation of each:

Nutella (1 1/2 cups): The star of the recipe. Nutella delivers both texture and the nutty taste.
Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup): Helps to create a rich, melted base and adds a smooth mouthfeel.
Semisweet Chocolate Chips (3/4 cup): For bursts of gooey chocolate flavor within the brownie.
Brown Sugar (1 cup): Provides a deeper molasses note and contributes to the chewy texture.
Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Balances the sweetness while supporting the overall structure.
Eggs (3 large) plus 1 extra yolk: They bind the ingredients and enrich the mixture, helping achieve that dense, fudgy consistency.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Lifts and harmonizes all the flavors in the batter.
All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Offers structure and balances the moisture.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (1/3 cup): Intensifies the chocolate profile for a more robust flavor.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for flavor enhancement and balance.
Additional Nutella (optional for swirling, about 1/4 cup): Creates an attractive marbled effect on top.

Each ingredient plays a critical role. When combined properly, they work in harmony to produce a dessert that pleases both the eye and the palate.

Preparation and Equipment

Before you begin, ensure your work area is well organized. The right tools make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need:

8-inch square baking pan: A parchment-lined pan ensures easy removal.
Microwave-safe bowl: For melting butter and chocolate.
Mixing bowls: At least two different sizes are best.
Electric mixer or whisk: To beat the eggs and sugars until fluffy.
Spatula: Great for gently folding in dry ingredients.
Knife or toothpick: For creating a marbled swirl effect with extra Nutella.

Setting up these items ahead of time will streamline your baking process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s move on to the step-by-step guide that will transform simple ingredients into mouthwatering Nutella Brownies.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents the brownies from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal once they have cooled.

Tip: Consider lightly greasing the parchment paper with butter. This extra step enhances the release process even further.

Step 2: Creating the Chocolate Base

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter with the semisweet chocolate chips. Microwave them in short bursts of 20 seconds. Stir between each interval until the mixture is completely smooth. Once melted, stir in 1 1/2 cups of Nutella.

This melted mixture forms the foundation of the batter, promising a densely fudgy texture with an inviting shine.

Step 3: Beating the Eggs and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, extra yolk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer set on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. You should notice the mixture becoming thick, pale, and voluminous. This step lays the groundwork for a rich yet tender texture.

Small Example: Imagine whipping a light, airy meringue. The same transformation happens here. The sugars dissolve and combine with the eggs to trap plenty of tiny air bubbles.

Step 4: Combining the Mixtures

Now, reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add in the warm chocolate-Nutella mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract. Once all the liquid is incorporated, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into your mixture using a spatula. Be cautious not to overmix; the aim is to keep the batter as light as possible.

Tip: Folding by hand helps maintain the structure developed during the previous mixing stage, which results in a fudgy and tender crumb.

Step 5: Adding Chocolate Chips

Mix in the remaining semisweet chocolate chips by hand. The chips add texture and little pockets of extra gooey chocolate that delight your taste buds with every bite.

Step 6: Preparing the Batter for Baking

Pour your batter into the prepared baking pan. To create a visually striking effect, drizzle additional Nutella on top. Use a knife to gently swirl the Nutella into the batter, creating a marbled design. This not only looks appealing but also provides pockets of extra flavor.

Step 7: Baking to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Start checking at 30 minutes. The center should be slightly soft and will firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking; a fudgy center is the key to this brownie’s charm.

Example: When the edges start pulling away, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs, your brownies are ready to be removed from the oven.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Cooling is essential as it helps in setting the fudgy texture and makes the brownies easier to cut. Once cool, lift the parchment paper and transfer the brownies to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice them into squares.

Serving Suggestion: Enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, gooey brownie paired with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that will elevate your dessert experience.

Tips for Perfecting Your Brownies

Even with a solid recipe, there are always ways to enhance your Nutella Brownies. Here are some practical tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and butter at room temperature. They blend more uniformly, providing a consistent texture.
Beat Thoroughly: Ensure the eggs and sugars are beaten until thick. This directly influences the how airy or dense your brownies will be.
Gentle Folding: When you mix in the flour, do so with care. Overmixing can develop gluten, which may lead to tougher brownies.
Chill for Fudginess: For extra fudgy brownies, chill the cut pieces in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chopped hazelnuts or walnuts for extra crunch. You can also try a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor.
Watch Your Bake Time: Each oven is different. Start checking at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking. The final product should have a slight wobble in the center.

These insights come from my experiences in the kitchen. They help turn a good recipe into a great one, ensuring every batch is just right.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Nutella Brownies are not only delicious fresh out of the oven—they also store beautifully. Here’s how you can keep them fresh or freeze them for a later treat.

Storing at Room Temperature

Method: Place cooled brownies in an airtight container. For best results, layer them with parchment paper between each row.
Duration: They can be kept at room temperature for 3-4 days. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerating for Extended Freshness

Method: Once completely cooled, arrange the brownies in an airtight container.
Duration: Refrigerate for 5-7 days. Before serving, let them come to room temperature to revive the fudgy texture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

Preparation: Wrap each brownie square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.
Duration: They can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Thawing: Transfer the frozen brownies to the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Storing your brownies properly preserves their flavor and texture, ensuring that you can enjoy this treat anytime.

Variations and Creative Twists

This recipe provides a basic framework that welcomes creativity. Here are some variations to consider:

Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the batter for extra crunch.
Different Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor.
Swirl Variations: Instead of Nutella, try swirling in peanut butter or caramel sauce for a different twist.
Spiced Brownies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder to deepen the flavor profile.
Healthier Option: Substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat content. The texture might be slightly different but still satisfying.

Feel free to experiment to match your palate. The idea is to make this recipe your own.

Crafting Nutella Brownies is much more than following a list of steps. It is about enjoying the creative process. The joy comes from knowing that you have produced a dessert that not only tastes exquisite but also has a visual appeal that captivates anyone who sees it. This recipe is both a treat and a conversation starter—a stellar dessert for small gatherings or a relaxing night in.

Whether you serve them plain or with garnishes like extra sea salt or a drizzle of melted chocolate, Nutella Brownies bring warmth and delight. The fusion of Nutella with classic brownie ingredients makes it a unique dessert option that is both comforting and innovative.

So roll up your sleeves and prepare to indulge in a dessert that’s simple, yet remarkably indulgent. Enjoy every bite and let this recipe become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.

Happy baking and savor every decadent moment!

Nutella Brownies
Jump to Recipe

Why Nutella Brownies?

Ingredients: What You Need

Preparation and Equipment