Craving a sweet treat that blends rich chocolate with crunchy hazelnuts? You're in for a treat! My Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies are pure bliss—fudgy, nutty, and oh-so-easy to make. In this post, I’ll guide you through the simple steps, key ingredients, and expert tips to craft these delicious brownies. Whether you're a novice baker or a pro, you'll find something here to love. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: This brownie recipe is packed with deep, rich chocolate, making every bite an indulgent treat.
- Creamy Hazelnut Swirl: The addition of chocolate hazelnut spread adds a creamy, nutty element that elevates the brownies.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these brownies can be whipped up in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: These brownies cut into neat squares are perfect for sharing at parties, gatherings, or just enjoying at home!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make these chocolate hazelnut brownies, gather the following items:
- 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate)
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (70g) hazelnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup (50g) chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
Ingredient Substitutes
If you need alternatives, here are some great substitutes:
- For dark chocolate chips, use semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Instead of unsalted butter, use coconut oil or margarine.
- If you want less sugar, try using brown sugar or maple syrup.
- For eggs, you can use flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
- If you are gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour.
Quality Tips for Each Ingredient
- Dark Chocolate: Choose high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa. This gives rich flavor.
- Butter: Use fresh unsalted butter. It helps control the salt level in your brownies.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar works best for sweetness and texture. Avoid powdered sugar.
- Eggs: Use large, fresh eggs. They help bind the ingredients well.
- Flour: Sift the flour to remove lumps. This ensures a smooth brownie texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness. Don’t skip it!
- Hazelnuts: Toast hazelnuts lightly for a richer taste. This adds a nice crunch.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Choose a good quality spread for the best flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grab an 8x8 inch (20cm x 20cm) baking pan. Greasing the pan helps the brownies come out easily. Line the pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the edges. This makes it simple to lift the brownies out later.
Melting Chocolate and Combining Ingredients
In a heatproof bowl, mix 1 cup of dark chocolate chips with 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. You can melt this mixture using a double boiler or in the microwave. If you use the microwave, heat it in 30-second bursts. Stir it until it is smooth and shiny. Let this mixture cool a bit. Then, whisk in 3/4 cup of granulated sugar until smooth. Add 2 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Now, sift in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mix. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in 1/2 cup of roughly chopped hazelnuts. Save a few hazelnuts for topping if you want.
Baking and Cooling Process
Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan. Spread it out evenly. Then, scoop dollops of 1/4 cup of chocolate hazelnut spread over the batter. Top it with the rest of the brownie batter and spread it out. Take a knife or skewer and swirl it gently to create a marbled look.
Sprinkle the reserved chopped hazelnuts on top. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. Once done, take the pan out and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the brownies onto a wire rack. Let them cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your treats!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making chocolate hazelnut brownies, avoid overmixing the batter. This can make the brownies tough. Mix just until you see no flour. Also, do not skip the step of cooling the chocolate mixture. This helps keep the eggs from cooking when added. Lastly, check your oven temperature. An oven that's too hot can dry out the brownies.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
To boost flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate. It adds depth and richness. Try adding a bit of espresso powder to the batter. This enhances the chocolate taste without making the brownies taste like coffee. For added texture, include sea salt on top before baking. This contrast makes each bite special.
Ideal Chocolate Selection
Choose dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa. This gives a rich, bold flavor. If you like sweetness, look for chocolate with 50% cocoa. For melting, chocolate chips work well. They hold their shape better. If using chopped chocolate, chop it finely for smooth melting. Your choice affects the brownie’s final taste and texture.
Pro Tips
- Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor of your brownies. Opt for a high-quality dark chocolate for the best results.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it’s clean, the brownies may be overbaked.
- Let Them Cool: Allowing the brownies to cool completely before cutting helps them set and makes for cleaner, neater squares.
Variations
Adding Other Nuts or Mix-ins
You can easily change the nuts in this recipe. Try using walnuts or pecans for a fun twist. They add a nice crunch and different flavors. You could also add chocolate chips or dried fruit, like cherries. These mix-ins can make your brownies even more special.
Gluten-Free Options
Want to make these brownies gluten-free? Simple! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many brands work well and taste great. Be sure to check if your chocolate chips are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.
Vegan Adaptations
For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Use dairy-free chocolate and butter too. This way, you can still enjoy rich, tasty brownies without animal products. They’ll be just as yummy!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Brownies
To keep your chocolate hazelnut brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. If you live in a warm area, refrigeration may help. However, cold can change the texture a bit. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days.
Freezing Brownies
You can freeze brownies for longer storage. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each brownie in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn. When stored well, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy later, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat brownies, you can use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes, until warm. For the microwave, place a brownie on a plate. Heat for 10-15 seconds, checking to avoid overheating. Enjoy them warm for a delightful treat!
FAQs
How do you know when brownies are done?
You can tell brownies are done when the edges look set. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If the toothpick has wet batter, bake them a little longer. Keep an eye on them; overbaking can dry them out.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate. This will make your brownies sweeter and creamier. Just remember that the texture may change a bit. If you like a richer taste, I recommend sticking with dark chocolate.
What is the difference between chocolate hazelnut spread and Nutella?
Chocolate hazelnut spread is a general term for spreads made from chocolate and hazelnuts. Nutella is a brand name for a specific type of chocolate hazelnut spread. Nutella contains sugar, palm oil, hazelnuts, cocoa solids, and milk powder. Other brands may have different ingredients or flavors. Always check the label for specifics.
This blog post covered all you need for perfect brownies. We discussed ingredients, instructions, and tips. I shared common mistakes to help you avoid issues. You can also explore tasty variations to suit preferences.
Storing your brownies properly will keep them fresh and delicious. Remember to check the FAQs for answers to your questions. Now, you’re ready to bake and enjoy brownies that impress everyone. Enjoy your baking journey!
