Kathleen LooneyBefore we dive into the delightful world of Nutella brownies, let’s talk about what pairs perfectly with them. Imagine sinking your teeth into a rich, fudgy brownie and then sipping on a glass of cold milk or a piping hot espresso. The balance of sweet and bitter is pure bliss.
Alternatively, a scoop of vanilla ice cream sitting atop a warm brownie creates a contrast that is truly heavenly. For a more sophisticated pairing, consider serving your brownie alongside a dollop of whipped cream infused with a hint of almond extract.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of sea salt can elevate the flavors, giving that extra pop. With all the delicious possibilities, get ready!
What is a Nutella Brownie?
A Nutella brownie is an indulgent dessert that combines traditional brownie ingredients with the magical addition of Nutella. This Italian hazelnut spread, with its creamy texture and rich flavor, makes these brownies irresistibly fudgy.
Unlike typical brownies, which can sometimes be dry or overly cakey, Nutella brownies strike a balance between moist and chewy. They are best enjoyed fresh and warm—almost straight from the oven.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe works for several reasons.
1. Ingredient Synergy: The ingredients are complementary. Butter brings richness, brown sugar adds depth, and eggs contribute to the perfect texture.
2. Nutella’s Versatility: Nutella’s creamy consistency makes it mix well without any clumps, resulting in a smooth batter.
3. Flavorful Additions: The inclusion of semi-sweet chocolate morsels amps up the chocolate flavor, while espresso powder enhances the overall aesthetic of the brownies.
4. Ease of Preparation: The recipe is straightforward, allowing even beginner bakers to succeed.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s your shopping list for Nutella brownies:
- 2 large eggs, brought to room temperature for better mixing
- 1/3 cup creamy unsalted butter, softened to a spreadable consistency
- 1/2 cup tightly packed golden brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons premium vanilla essence
- 1 and 1/4 cups smooth hazelnut chocolate spread, divided
- 3/4 cup sifted all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate morsels; a pinch of flaky sea salt for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon ground espresso powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
How to Make Nutella Brownies?
Ready? Let’s get our hands dirty and make these amazing Nutella brownies step by step.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This preparation ensures that the brownies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. This step is crucial for easy brownie removal. You can also grease the dish if you prefer.
Step 3: Mix the Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together. You want to achieve a light, fluffy mixture. This airiness leads to lighter brownies.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack the room temperature eggs into the bowl and add the vanilla essence. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Incorporate the Nutella
Pour in 1 cup of the Nutella, and mix until it’s well blended with the egg and sugar mixture. You’ll want a beautifully enriched chocolate batter.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour, salt, espresso powder, and cinnamon together. Then, gradually add this dry mixture to the wet batter. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can toughen your brownies.
Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Morsels
Carefully fold the semi-sweet chocolate morsels into your batter. You’re creating those delightful pockets of melted chocolate!
Step 8: Pour and Swirl
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, take that remaining 1/4 cup of Nutella and dollop it on top. Use a toothpick or a knife to swirl it gently for a marbled effect.
Step 9: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 10: Cool and Cut
Once baked, let the brownies cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper, and let them cool completely on a rack before cutting them into squares.
Tips for the Best Nutella Brownies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps you achieve a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Quality Matters: Opt for premium Nutella and chocolate. This upgrade makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Stir just until combined.
- Watch Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check your brownies around the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let Them Cool: Allowing brownies to cool completely enhances their texture and makes cutting easier.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can last for 3-4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. For the best experience, slightly warm them before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
How Would I Recommend Serving Nutella Brownies?
- Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: Heat a brownie in the microwave for a few seconds and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. As the ice cream slowly melts onto the brownie, every bite becomes a warm, gooey delight.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: If you love caramel, drizzle a little over the top before serving. Its sweet and buttery flavor complements the Nutella beautifully.
- Top with Whipped Cream: A generous dollop of fresh whipped cream transforms the brownie from everyday dessert to something special. You could even add a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top.
- Serve with Fresh Berries: Pairing brownies with fresh raspberries or strawberries adds a refreshing element. Their tartness balances the sweetness of the brownie just right.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
- Butter: Coconut oil or vegetable oil can replace butter. Both will keep brownies moist and rich.
- Brown Sugar: Granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses works if brown sugar isn’t handy. It offers similar taste and moisture.
- Eggs: Flaxseed meal (mix 1 tablespoon with 2.5 tablespoons water) serves as a great egg substitute for a vegan option.
- Flour: Almond flour, oat flour, or other gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs.
Conclusion
Nutella brownies are a wonderful treat that stands out for their fudgy texture and rich taste. Having tried and tested this recipe, I can confidently say they are a crowd-pleaser.
With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anytime is a good time for Nutella brownies.
Whether you whip them up for a casual weekday dessert or a special gathering, they are bound to impress. So, don your apron, preheat that oven, and make a batch today. Trust me, every bite is worth it!
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Ingredients
Method
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This preparation ensures that the brownies bake evenly.
- Line an 8×8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. This step is crucial for easy brownie removal. You can also grease the dish if you prefer.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together. You want to achieve a light, fluffy mixture. This airiness leads to lighter brownies.
- Crack the room temperature eggs into the bowl and add the vanilla essence. Mix until well combined.
- Pour in 1 cup of the Nutella, and mix until it’s well blended with the egg and sugar mixture. You’ll want a beautifully enriched chocolate batter.
- In another bowl, sift the flour, salt, espresso powder, and cinnamon together. Then, gradually add this dry mixture to the wet batter. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that can toughen your brownies.
- Carefully fold the semi-sweet chocolate morsels into your batter. You’re creating those delightful pockets of melted chocolate!
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Now, take that remaining 1/4 cup of Nutella and dollop it on top. Use a toothpick or a knife to swirl it gently for a marbled effect.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, let the brownies cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper, and let them cool completely on a rack before cutting them into squares.
Notes
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps you achieve a smooth batter with no lumps.
- Quality Matters: Opt for premium Nutella and chocolate. This upgrade makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense brownies. Stir just until combined.
- Watch Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check your brownies around the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let Them Cool: Allowing brownies to cool completely enhances their texture and makes cutting easier.
