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There’s a certain comfort in the kitchen when your hands are dusted with flour, and the rich scent of chocolate fills the air. Recently, on a cozy Sunday afternoon, I felt an irresistible urge to create something sweet that would warm both heart and home. That’s when I stumbled upon my ultimate indulgence: Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies.

This recipe is a delightful combination of rich chocolate hazelnut spread and mini chocolate chips, creating the kind of brownies that are perfectly fudgy and gloriously decadent. They are quick to whip up, making them an ideal choice for those moments when you need a comforting treat but want to avoid the fast-food rut. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or satisfy a late-night craving, these brownies are sure to bring smiles and happy bellies. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious!

Why are Chocolate Filled Cookies so irresistible?

Decadent flavor: The fusion of chocolate hazelnut spread and mini chocolate chips ensures each bite bursts with rich, chocolatey goodness.
Quick and easy: With simple steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for unexpected cravings.
Crowd-pleaser: These brownies are bound to impress family and friends, making them your go-to dessert for gatherings or celebrations.
Fudgy texture: Enjoy the perfect balance between gooey and chewy – a chocolate lover’s dream!
Versatile treat: Pairs great with ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious dessert upgrade. Don’t miss out on trying these delightful treats; they truly are a must for any chocolate lover!

Chocolate Hazelnut Brownie Ingredients

For the Batter
• Chocolate hazelnut spread – the star of the show, providing rich flavor and moisture.
• Unsalted butter – melts beautifully for a fudgy texture; make sure it’s at room temperature for even mixing.
• Light brown sugar – adds depth and a hint of caramel sweetness; packed tightly for optimal results.
• Granulated sugar – balances the richness with a hint of sweetness.
• Large egg – ensures the brownies bind together well; let it reach room temperature for better incorporation.
• Vanilla extract – a must-have flavor enhancer; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste!

For the Dry Ingredients
• All-purpose flour – provides structure; don’t overmix to keep the brownies soft and fudgy.
• Baking soda – helps the brownies rise slightly while keeping them dense; essential for that chewy texture.
• Fine sea salt – elevates flavors and balances sweetness; a pinch makes all the difference.

For the Chocolate
• Mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate bar – adds pockets of melted chocolate goodness; use your favorite type for a personalized touch.

Dive into this delightful recipe that will surely satisfy your craving for Chocolate Filled Cookies!

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly gooey in the middle.
Mix the chocolate hazelnut spread, melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a bowl. Stir until everything is well-combined and glossy, about 1-2 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until fully incorporated—this will enhance the flavors and add moisture.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt in a separate bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures you have a uniform batter.
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix for that perfect fudgy texture.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar. This extra chocolate makes every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.
Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Ensure it reaches the corners for uniform baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that gooey center.
Cool the brownies in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them firm up, making it easier to cut.

Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The dry ingredients can also be mixed and stored separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepped batter with chocolate chips, pour it into a greased pan, and bake as directed. This way, you enjoy freshly baked brownies with minimal effort, while the rich flavors still shine through—just as delicious as if made from scratch on the spot!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies

Use Room Temperature Egg: Ensure your egg is at room temperature for better emulsification, leading to a richer texture in your brownies.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of the soft, fudgy texture you desire.
Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread and chocolate chips for the best flavor. This elevates your brownies to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Correct Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; the toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating gooey perfection without being underbaked.
Cooling is Key: Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before cutting. This helps them set properly and avoids crumbling.
Give it a Twist: You can add nuts or different flavors to your batter if you want to add a personal touch to your Chocolate Filled Cookies!

Chocolate Filled Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delicious twists!

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously safe alternative.
Mint Chocolate: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract or fold in crushed chocolate mint candies for a fresh and festive flair.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a playful touch of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Fruit Medley: Fold in 1/2 cup of dried cherries or raspberries for a tart contrast that elevates the fudgy brownies. They add delightful bursts of flavor in every bite!
Vegan Version: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
Caramel Swirls: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the batter before baking, creating a gooey, indulgent surprise in every square.
Coconut Bliss: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that brings an unexpected chewiness to these decadent brownies.

Get excited—each of these variations can lead to a whole new brownie experience!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies

Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their fudgy texture.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store brownies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.

Freezer: Wrap brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months, ready to indulge at any time!

Reheating: To enjoy your brownies warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies?

Imagine cozying up with a plate of rich, fudgy brownies that melt in your mouth, complemented by delightful sides to enhance your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the intense chocolate flavor, adding a refreshing touch to each bite.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream serves as a delightful topping, bringing a smooth texture that wonderfully contrasts the brownies.
Fresh Berries: A burst of juicy berries adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the brownies for a well-rounded dessert.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle a warm chocolate sauce over the brownies to create an indulgent treat that accentuates the chocolate flavor even further.
Espresso: A rich shot of espresso enhances and complements the chocolate notes in the brownies, making it a perfect pairing for coffee lovers.
Nutty Trail Mix: Offer a side of nutty trail mix to add crunch and texture; it playfully contrasts the softness of the brownies.
Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea cleanse the palate and provide a light finish to the heavy sweetness of the brownies.
Caramel Sauce: For those craving a decadent twist, drizzle some caramel sauce on the side; its sweet salty notes enhance the overall flavor profile.
Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes bring a chewy texture and a tropical vibe that brings a refreshing twist to your brownie experience.

Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chocolate hazelnut spread?
Absolutely! Look for a chocolate hazelnut spread that has real ingredients and minimal additives. You want a spread that’s rich in hazelnuts and chocolate. I recommend checking the label for a short ingredient list, ideally consisting of hazelnuts, cocoa, sugar, and oil. Avoid spreads with artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup for the best flavor!

How should I store leftover brownies?
For room temperature storage, keep your brownies in an airtight container, and they’ll last for up to 3 days. If you want them to stay fresh longer, I often recommend refrigerating them in a sealed container for up to a week. Just remember, bringing them back to room temperature enhances their fudgy texture!

Can I freeze chocolate hazelnut brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or aluminum foil. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes!

What should I do if my brownies are too dry?
Very! If your brownies turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. To fix this, next time, ensure your oven temperature is accurate and use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour instead of packing it down. If they do come out dry, you can drizzle a little warm chocolate hazelnut spread on top or serve them with ice cream to add moisture!

Are there any dietary considerations for these brownies?
Yes, it’s important to note that chocolate hazelnut spread often contains nuts, which can be an allergen for some individuals. If you’re making these brownies for guests, always check for allergies beforehand. For a vegan alternative, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter and chocolate spread!

How do I know if my brownies are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. It should come out with a few moist crumbs attached. If the toothpick comes out clean, they may be overbaked. Remember, they will continue to set slightly once removed from the oven, so err on the side of underbaking for that perfect fudgy center!