Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies Recipe

There is something undeniably comforting about the rich, gooey texture of a perfectly baked brownie. This chocolate hazelnut brownie recipe has become a beloved staple in our home, delighting both family and friends with its decadent flavor and satisfying crunch. The combination of velvety chocolate and nutty hazelnuts creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Every bite is an indulgent experience, bringing smiles to the faces of children and adults alike. Whether served as a dessert at a dinner party or as a simple treat after a long day, these brownies have earned their place as a favorite go-to recipe.

Ingredients

The magic of these chocolate hazelnut brownies lies in the quality of the ingredients used. To recreate this indulgent delight, gather the following components:

• 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (130g) semisweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup (70g) chopped hazelnuts

Instructions

Creating the perfect chocolate hazelnut brownies is a delightful process that requires attention to detail and a love for baking. Follow these instructions to ensure a successful outcome:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the cocoa powder and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.

Step 6: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped hazelnuts.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out to slice and serve.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe yields approximately 16 servings. Each serving contains:

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 17g
• Protein: 3g

Preparation Time

Preparing these chocolate hazelnut brownies is a relatively quick and straightforward task that fits well into any busy schedule. Here’s a breakdown of the time commitment:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes

How to Serve

The versatility of these brownies makes them suitable for various occasions and presentations. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

• As-Is: Serve the brownies warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine on their own.
• A la Mode: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert pairing.
• With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
• Drizzled with Caramel: Enhance the sweetness with a drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice.
• Accompanied by Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

To ensure your chocolate hazelnut brownies turn out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate and cocoa powder to enhance the overall flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake. They should be set but still slightly gooey in the center for the best texture.
• Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing to maintain clean edges and a firm structure.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Customize your brownies by adding other nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about chocolate hazelnut brownies, along with their answers:

1. Can I make these brownies gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate chips? Absolutely! Using milk chocolate will make the brownies sweeter and creamier, so adjust the sugar amount to your preference.
3. What can I do if I don’t have hazelnuts? If hazelnuts are unavailable, feel free to use almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a different nutty twist.
4. How can I make the brownies fudgier? To achieve a fudgier texture, reduce the baking time slightly and let the brownies cool completely before cutting.
5. Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake the brownies in a 9×13 inch pan. Adjust the baking time to ensure they cook evenly.

In conclusion, these chocolate hazelnut brownies are a delightful treat that promises to satisfy any chocolate craving. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts creates a heavenly dessert worthy of any occasion. With their quick preparation time and customizable options, they are an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment at home, these brownies are sure to impress and delight.