Can you resist a rich dessert like Nutella brownies made with melted chocolate and hazelnut spread in a quick and easy homemade recipe, perfect for a weeknight treat, save this idea

brownies stacked on top of each other with the words delicious nutella brownies recipe

Introduction

Imagine indulging in a rich, velvety, and incredibly decadent dessert that combines the best of two worlds: the deep, satisfying taste of brownies and the irresistible allure of Nutella. This delicious Nutella brownies recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a testament to the magic that happens when you stack layers of heaven on top of each other. The best part? It’s made with everyday ingredients, requiring minimal effort but yielding results that are nothing short of impressive. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, this recipe promises to delight, offering a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of dark chocolate and Nutella creates a flavor profile that is both deep and appealing, while using readily available ingredients makes this recipe accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this dessert is surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring basic cooking skills and minimal time in the kitchen.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The act of stacking brownies on top of each other, layered with Nutella, transforms a simple dessert into a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion.

Key Ingredients

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. You will need:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks of unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the pan
– 2 cups of sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup of Nutella
– Optional: nuts (walnuts or hazelnuts work well), or any other mix-ins you prefer
For practical substitutions, consider using salted butter and omitting the added salt, or swapping out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan with butter and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. Step 3: Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, then melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly, then fold it into the batter until well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. To assemble, place a brownie square on a serving plate, spread a layer of Nutella on top, and repeat, ending with a layer of Nutella on top.

Handy Tips

• For a cleaner cut, refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes before slicing. When assembling, you can also slightly warm the Nutella for easier spreading.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent dense brownies. If you find your Nutella too thick, warming it slightly can make it more spreadable.
• Consider using high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Also, don’t overbake; the brownies should be slightly underbaked when removed from the oven as they will continue to cook a bit as they cool.

Heat Control

When baking the brownies, it’s crucial to keep an eye on them, as the ideal baking time can vary depending on your oven. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the pan’s edge comes out with a few moist crumbs. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of underbaking, as the brownies will continue to set as they cool.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in these brownies comes from the texture contrast between the soft, fudgy brownie and the creamy Nutella. If you wish to add an extra layer of crunch, consider sprinkling chopped nuts on top of the Nutella layer before adding the next brownie square. This adds a delightful textural element to each bite.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure your brownies are fudgy and not cakey, don’t overbake them. A slightly underbaked texture is perfect.
• For easier removal from the pan, make sure to leave enough parchment paper overhang and let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
• Experimenting with different types of chocolate or adding-ins like espresso powder can elevate the flavor of your brownies. Consider using dark cocoa powder for an intense chocolate experience.

Storage Tips

• These brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing for up to 2 months.
• When storing, it’s best to keep the brownies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If frozen, thaw at room temperature or refrigerate overnight before serving.
• Reheating can be done in the microwave in short increments, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the Nutella to become too runny.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these delicious Nutella brownies, presentation is key. Place the stacked brownies in a decorative tin or on a fancy plate, wrap with cellophane or plastic wrap, and tie a ribbon around it. For a more rustic look, use a paper bag and twine. Adding a handwritten note or a small jar of Nutella on the side can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter for added depth.
• Creative toppings: Apart from nuts, you can top your brownies with marshmallows, candy pieces, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Ingredient swaps: Swapping the all-purpose flour with almond flour can make the brownies gluten-free, or using dairy-free chocolate for a vegan version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your brownies turn out too dense, it might be due to overmixing. If they’re too dry, they might have been overbaked.
• Ingredient replacements: Always consider the flavor and texture replacement ingredients will bring. For example, using milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet will result in a sweeter brownie.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your brownies while they bake. They should be slightly underbaked when removed from the oven. Overcooking will result in dry, crumbly brownies.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze them before assembling with Nutella.
• Is it gluten-free? The original recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour. However, you can make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough baking pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this delicious Nutella brownies recipe is a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth. With its ease of preparation, impressive presentation, and the versatility to adapt to various tastes and dietary needs, it’s perfect for both personal indulgence and as a gift for friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings, and most importantly, enjoy the process and the delightful outcome of stacking these heavenly brownies on top of each other, layered with the irresistible charm of Nutella.