When I first stumbled upon the Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Brownies recipe, I was intrigued by the simplicity and richness promised by the combination of chocolate and hazelnut. My family is a big fan of anything chocolate, and I knew this recipe was going to be a hit. The first time I made these brownies, the aroma that filled our kitchen was irresistible. My children, who were initially skeptical about the addition of hazelnut, quickly became converts after the first bite. The gooey, fudgy texture, complemented by the nutty undertone of the hazelnut spread, made these brownies an instant family favorite. Even my husband, who usually prefers classic chocolate brownies, was pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavor. Needless to say, this recipe has now become a staple in our household, requested on birthdays, holidays, and sometimes, just because. Now, let me share this delightful recipe with you.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Brownies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of chocolate hazelnut spread
- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup of chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch
Instructions
Preparing these brownies is as delightful as savoring them. Here’s how you make them:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the chocolate hazelnut spread, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend these ingredients until smooth.
Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that the batter is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.
Step 5: If you’re opting for an extra crunch, fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as the brownies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe makes approximately 9 servings. Each serving contains roughly 250 calories. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
Preparation Time
In terms of preparation time, this recipe is quite efficient. You can expect to spend about 10 minutes on preparation and an additional 20-25 minutes for baking. In total, you can have these delightful brownies ready in roughly 35 minutes.
How to Serve
These brownies are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
- Top with additional chocolate hazelnut spread for extra indulgence.
- Wrap individually and include in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use quality ingredients: Opt for a high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread and butter to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overmix: When folding in the flour, mix just until combined to avoid tough brownies.
- Check for doneness: Use the toothpick test, but remember a few crumbs are okay—this ensures fudginess.
- Customize flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation.
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions about Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Brownies:
Q: Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, almond flour can be used as a substitute. However, the texture will be slightly different. It will add a subtle nutty flavor and make the brownies gluten-free.
Q: Can I make these brownies vegan?
A: Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread and plant-based butter for a vegan version.
Q: How can I make these brownies less sweet?
A: You can reduce the amount of chocolate hazelnut spread and add some unsweetened cocoa powder to balance the sweetness.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
A: Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor and texture.
Q: How do I know when my brownies are done?
A: The edges should look set, and the center should have a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter.