Ultimate Nutella Indulgence

Craving the ultimate chocolate treat? Look no further! These Nutella brownies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. Imagine a brownie so profoundly fudgy, so intensely chocolatey, and so irresistibly gooey that it melts in your mouth with every bite. Now, infuse that classic perfection with the creamy, dreamy, hazelnut-infused magic of Nutella, and you’ve got a masterpiece. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to indulge in the best Nutella brownies you will ever bake.

My journey with these extraordinary brownies began quite by accident, as many of the best culinary discoveries do. One lazy weekend, my friend and I found ourselves with an almost-full jar of chocolate hazelnut spread and a sudden urge to bake. We were making our usual brownie recipe when a spark of inspiration hit: “What if we just… added the Nutella?” The thought was simple, but the outcome was revolutionary. It was a true ‘aha!’ moment that transformed an already beloved dessert into something truly spectacular.

From the very first bite, we knew we had stumbled upon something incredible. The brownies emerged from the oven with that perfect crackly top, giving way to an unbelievably soft, dense, and moist interior, all infused with the distinctive, sweet, and nutty flavor of Nutella. It was a flavor explosion, a revelation that begged the question: “Why hasn’t this always been a thing?” Since then, these fudgy Nutella brownies have become a staple in my kitchen, consistently earning rave reviews and widening eyes from anyone lucky enough to try them. If you haven’t yet ventured into the delightful world of baking with Nutella, prepare for a treat that will redefine your brownie expectations.

Just to be clear, my adoration for these brownies comes purely from their unparalleled deliciousness – no sponsorship necessary (though, of course, a lifelong supply of Nutella would not be unwelcome!). This recipe simply stands on its own as a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with a touch of ingenuity, can create something truly extraordinary. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream, elevated by the creamy richness of hazelnut spread.

This recipe has quickly ascended to the top of my go-to list whenever a deep, chocolatey craving strikes. What makes it even better is its remarkable simplicity. You won’t need any specialized equipment or obscure ingredients; just a handful of pantry staples, a mixing bowl, and your oven. In no time, you’ll be pulling out a batch of brownies that taste like they came straight from a gourmet bakery, capable of winning hearts and baking contests alike. Their effortless elegance makes them perfect for any occasion, from a quiet evening at home to a bustling celebratory gathering.

And I’m certainly not alone in my enthusiasm for the magic Nutella brings to brownies. Esteemed culinary publications and chefs worldwide acknowledge the transformative power of this hazelnut spread. For instance, Bon Appétit has praised the rich, gooey texture and decadent flavor that Nutella imparts, turning a classic dessert into an unforgettable indulgence. This universal approval only reinforces what I discovered in my kitchen: Nutella brownies are truly a culinary triumph.

WHY THIS IS THE BEST NUTELLA BROWNIE RECIPE

There are countless brownie recipes out there, but this one holds a special place in my heart, and I’m confident it will in yours too. Here’s a deeper dive into what makes these fudgy Nutella brownies my absolute favorite:

• Effortlessly Simple, Gorgeously Delicious: Seriously, baking doesn’t get much easier than this. The steps are straightforward, perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. You won’t spend hours in the kitchen, yet the results are consistently stunning. It’s the kind of recipe you can whip up on a whim for an unexpected treat or confidently prepare for a special gathering. The magic happens mostly in the oven, transforming simple ingredients into a decadent dessert with minimal fuss.
• Unrivaled Fudgy Texture with a Perfect Chew: Texture is paramount when it comes to brownies, and this recipe absolutely nails it. Each square boasts an incredibly fudgy, moist interior that practically melts in your mouth, contrasted beautifully with a delicate, slightly crispy, crackled top. This combination creates a delightful sensory experience, making every bite satisfyingly rich and chewy without being overly dense or cakey. It’s the quintessential fudgy brownie, enhanced by the creamy consistency of Nutella.
• Pantry-Friendly Ingredients, Exceptional Flavor: One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is that it relies on ingredients you likely already have on hand. No need for a special trip to a gourmet store! Beyond the star ingredient, Nutella, you’ll find common baking staples like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and cocoa powder. This accessibility means you’re always just a few steps away from baking a batch of these incredible brownies. And if you don’t have Nutella? Well, consider this your perfect excuse to stock up on this irresistible chocolate hazelnut spread!
• Versatile for Every Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dessert, a sophisticated addition to a dinner party spread, a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, or simply a much-needed chocolate fix after a long day, these brownies are always the answer. Their universal appeal and undeniable deliciousness make them a perfect fit for any event. They travel well, slice beautifully, and are guaranteed to disappear quickly, leaving everyone asking for the recipe.
• Nutella’s Unique Flavor Profile: The addition of Nutella isn’t just about sweetness; it introduces a complex and delightful layer of flavor. The rich cocoa notes from the Nutella blend seamlessly with the added cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips, while the distinct hazelnut undertones add a sophisticated nutty depth that sets these brownies apart from any traditional chocolate brownie. It’s a gourmet twist without any extra effort.

INGREDIENTS FOR FUDGY NUTELLA BROWNIES

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these phenomenal Nutella brownies. Each component plays a vital role in achieving their signature fudgy texture and rich flavor:

• 125g unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps create that desirable moist, fudgy texture. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall saltiness.
• 100g brown sugar: Contributes to the chewiness and moisture of the brownies, thanks to its molasses content. It also adds a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• 50g granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps achieve that classic crackly top crust on your brownies.
• 2 large eggs: Act as a binder, provide structure, and contribute to the richness and moistness of the brownies. Ensure they are at room temperature for better emulsification.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A crucial flavor enhancer that complements the chocolate and hazelnut notes beautifully. Don’t skip it!
• 200g Nutella: The star ingredient! It provides an unparalleled chocolate-hazelnut flavor and a wonderfully creamy, fudgy texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the other flavors, especially the chocolate.
• 150g all-purpose flour: Provides the primary structure for the brownies. Measuring by weight (grams) is always more accurate in baking.
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: Boosts the chocolate intensity, ensuring a deep, rich cocoa flavor that pairs perfectly with the Nutella.
• 100g dark chocolate chips: For an extra layer of chocolatey indulgence and pockets of melted chocolate throughout the brownies. You can use milk or semi-sweet if preferred.

HOW TO MAKE NUTELLA BROWNIES: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Ready to bake the most irresistible Nutella brownies? Follow these detailed steps for a truly fudgy and delicious outcome:

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Preheat Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 165°C (347°F). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when your batter is ready. Next, line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on two sides; this will create “handles” to easily lift the cooled brownies out of the pan later. A properly lined pan makes cleanup a breeze and ensures your brownies won’t stick.

Step 2: Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter on high speed for approximately 1 minute. The goal here is to make the butter light, pale, and fluffy. This aeration process is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, which contributes to the brownies’ soft, chewy, and tender texture, preventing them from becoming too dense.

Step 3: Combine Sugars with Butter

Add both the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the creamed butter in the bowl. Continue beating the mixture on high speed for another 2 minutes. During this time, the sugars will dissolve slightly into the butter, and the mixture will become even lighter and fluffier. It’s important to stop occasionally and scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a spatula to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and there are no hidden pockets of unmixed butter or sugar.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

With your mixer still on low speed, carefully add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Once added, increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; just combine until uniform. The eggs should be at room temperature for best results, as they emulsify better with the butter and sugar, creating a smoother batter.

Step 5: Add Nutella and Salt

Now for the star ingredient! Add the 200g of Nutella and the ¼ teaspoon of salt to the bowl. Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth, fluffy, and beautifully uniform in color. The Nutella will infuse the entire batter with its iconic chocolate-hazelnut flavor. Again, scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure every bit of Nutella is perfectly integrated into the batter, leaving no unmixed streaks.

Step 6: Gently Fold in Dry Ingredients

Reduce your mixer speed to its lowest setting. Add the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder to the wet ingredients. Mix *just until* they are incorporated. This is a critical step: **do not overmix!** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough, dense, and cakey brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture. As soon as you see no more dry streaks of flour, stop mixing.

Step 7: Pour Batter and Add Chocolate Chips

Evenly pour the rich Nutella brownie batter into your prepared 20×20 cm pan. Spread it gently with a spatula to ensure an even layer from corner to corner. For an extra touch of indulgence and visual appeal, generously sprinkle the dark chocolate chips over the top of the batter. These will melt into gooey pockets of chocolate during baking.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 27–34 minutes. Brownie baking times can vary significantly depending on your specific oven, so vigilance is key. To test for doneness, gently insert a toothpick or a thin skewer into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it (but no wet batter), your brownies are perfectly baked. If it comes out clean, they might be slightly overbaked, but still delicious. Begin checking a few minutes before the minimum bake time to avoid overbaking and losing that coveted fudgy interior.

Step 9: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

This step requires patience, but it’s essential! Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Resist the urge to cut into them immediately. Cooling allows the brownies to set, firm up, and become even more fudgy. Warm brownies are delicious but often crumbly and difficult to cut neatly. Once fully cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to gently lift the entire slab of brownies out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and slice into your desired square sizes. Now, finally, you can savor these incredible Nutella brownies!

EXPERT BAKING TIPS FOR PERFECT NUTELLA BROWNIES

Having baked countless batches of these delightful Nutella brownies, I’ve gathered a few insights that can elevate your baking from good to absolutely phenomenal. These aren’t just minor suggestions; they are small details that make a significant difference in achieving that perfect fudgy texture and rich flavor. Think of these as my secrets to consistent brownie perfection:

• Mindful Mixing is Key – Avoid Overmixing the Batter: This is perhaps the most crucial rule for fudgy brownies. When you add the flour and cocoa powder to the wet ingredients, mix only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated. As soon as you no longer see streaks of flour, stop mixing. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which will lead to a dense, tough, and cake-like brownie texture, rather than the desirable soft, chewy, and fudgy consistency we’re aiming for. A light hand and quick mixing are your best friends here.
• Know Your Oven – Monitor Baking Time Closely: Every oven is unique; temperatures can vary significantly even if set to the same degree. To ensure your brownies are perfectly fudgy and not overbaked (which can make them dry), start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recipe’s minimum bake time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter, and certainly not completely clean. Err on the side of slightly underbaking for a super fudgy result.
• Parchment Paper is Your Secret Weapon for Easy Removal: Don’t skip lining your pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This simple step makes removing the cooled brownies from the pan incredibly easy. You can simply lift them out as a whole slab, transfer them to a cutting board, and then slice them neatly. This also helps you achieve those desirable clean, sharp edges, making your brownies look as professional as they taste.
• Patience Pays Off – Allow Them to Cool Completely: I know, the aroma of freshly baked brownies is almost unbearable, but resist the urge to cut into them right away! Letting the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack is vital. As they cool, their structure sets, and the flavors deepen. Cutting warm brownies often results in a crumbly mess and a less defined texture. For the fudgiest, cleanest-cut brownies, let them cool for at least an hour, or even longer. For ultimate fudginess, some bakers even refrigerate them for a short period before slicing.
• Ingredient Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients emulsify better, creating a smoother, more uniform batter. This leads to a more consistent texture in the final baked product.
• Quality Ingredients for Superior Taste: While the recipe uses common ingredients, the quality of each can subtly impact the final outcome. Use good quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor, and fresh eggs. Of course, a good quality Nutella is essential for its signature taste.

CREATIVE VARIATIONS OF NUTELLA BROWNIES

While the classic Nutella brownie is perfect on its own, this recipe is incredibly versatile, lending itself beautifully to creative twists. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make them your own! Here are some fantastic variations to explore:

• Nutella Swirled Brownies for Extra Indulgence: This is a visually stunning and flavor-packed variation. After pouring the brownie batter into your prepared pan, dollop generous spoonfuls of extra Nutella on top. Then, using a knife, skewer, or even the handle of a spoon, gently swirl the Nutella through the batter to create a beautiful marble effect. This not only adds an artistic touch but also ensures pockets of pure, melted Nutella in every bite, intensifying that irresistible hazelnut flavor.
• Crunchy Hazelnut Boost: To truly amplify the hazelnut profile and add a delightful textural contrast, incorporate chopped toasted hazelnuts into your batter. You can fold them into the batter along with the chocolate chips, or sprinkle them generously on top before baking. Toasting the hazelnuts beforehand really brings out their nutty aroma and flavor, making each bite even more sophisticated and satisfying.
• Peanut Butter Twist for a Classic Combo: For those who adore the timeless chocolate and peanut butter pairing, this variation is a must-try. You can either swirl in some creamy peanut butter on top of the batter (similar to the Nutella swirl) or replace a portion of the Nutella in the batter with peanut butter. This will result in a slightly less sweet brownie with a distinct nutty, salty-sweet character that is incredibly addictive.
• Espresso Kick: A teaspoon of instant espresso powder or finely ground coffee added to the dry ingredients (or dissolved in the vanilla extract) will deepen the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. It enhances the richness and complexity of the cocoa and Nutella.
• Salted Caramel Swirl: For a sophisticated flavor combination, drizzle warmed salted caramel sauce over the top of the batter before baking and gently swirl it in. The salty-sweet caramel will create an incredible counterpoint to the rich chocolate and hazelnut.
• Mint Chocolate Nutella Brownies: Add a touch of mint extract (about ½ teaspoon) to the wet ingredients for a refreshing twist. You can also sprinkle chopped mint chocolate candies or chocolate mints on top for extra minty goodness.

STORAGE TIPS FOR FUDGY NUTELLA BROWNIES

While it’s highly unlikely you’ll have many (or any!) leftovers of these irresistible Nutella brownies, knowing how to properly store them ensures they remain as fresh and delicious as possible. Proper storage can extend their shelf life and maintain their fudgy texture.

• Room Temperature Storage for Short-Term Freshness: For optimal freshness and to maintain that soft, fudgy texture, store your cooled Nutella brownies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain wonderfully delicious for up to 3 days. Placing a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on top of the brownies before sealing the container can help prevent them from drying out. Avoid refrigerating if you plan to eat them within a few days, as the cold can sometimes make brownies a bit firmer.
• Freezing for Long-Term Enjoyment: These brownies are excellent candidates for freezing, making them perfect for meal prep or having a spontaneous treat on hand. Once completely cooled, wrap individual brownies or small stacks tightly in plastic wrap, then place them inside a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. They will maintain their quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. This method is great for ensuring you always have a delicious dessert ready whenever a craving strikes.
• Reheating for That Freshly Baked Experience: If you prefer your brownies warm and gooey, especially after refrigeration or freezing, reheating them is simple. From room temperature, pop a brownie into the microwave for about 10-20 seconds, or until just warmed through and gooey. If reheating from frozen, you might need to extend the microwave time slightly (around 30-45 seconds) or let them thaw at room temperature first before microwaving. Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-10 minutes for a truly warm, fudgy experience.
• Preventing Stickiness: When stacking brownies in a container, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.

NUTRITION INSIGHT FOR YOUR INDULGENT TREAT

These Nutella brownies, a symphony of rich flavors and textures, are undoubtedly an indulgent treat designed to be savored. Each square brings together a delightful combination of ingredients, contributing to both its taste and nutritional profile. The star, Nutella, along with the dark chocolate chips and cocoa powder, provides a generous amount of rich cocoa flavor, which is known for its antioxidant properties. Butter and eggs are crucial for the brownies’ structure and fudgy texture, also contributing essential fats and protein in moderation. The blend of brown and granulated sugars ensures the perfect balance of sweetness and helps create that irresistible moist and chewy crumb.

While undeniably delicious and satisfying, these brownies are higher in sugar and calories, making them a dessert best enjoyed in sensible portions or as an occasional indulgence. They are perfect for sharing with loved ones, making a special occasion even sweeter, or providing a comforting moment of pleasure after a long day. Remember, balance is key, and there’s always room for a delicious, homemade treat!

For those interested in a deeper understanding of baking ingredients and their nutritional impact, further valuable insights can be found by exploring resources such as Healthline’s comprehensive baking guide.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT NUTELLA BROWNIES

MORE DELICIOUS BAKING RECIPES TO TRY

If you loved baking these incredible Nutella brownies, you’re in for a treat! Here are more fantastic baking recipes that promise to satisfy your sweet tooth and expand your culinary repertoire:

• Air Fryer Brownies: A quick and easy way to get fudgy brownies without heating up your whole kitchen.
• Lemon Brownies With Glaze: A bright and zesty twist on the classic brownie, topped with a tangy lemon glaze.
• Healthy Date Loaf: A wholesome and naturally sweet loaf, perfect for a healthier snack or breakfast.
• Easy Banana Cake: A moist and flavorful cake, perfect for using up ripe bananas and simple to make.
• Flourless Orange and Almond Cakes: Elegant and gluten-free, these cakes are bursting with citrus and nutty flavors.

If you’ve tried this recipe and fallen in love with these fudgy Nutella brownies, I’d absolutely love to hear from you! Please share your thoughts, tips, and experiences by leaving a comment and a star rating below. Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy this amazing recipe!

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📋 RECIPE

Nutella Brownies

Yield:
16 brownies

Prep Time:
10 minutes

Cook Time:
34 minutes

Total Time:
44 minutes

Dive into the world of ultimate indulgence with these fudgy Nutella brownies. This recipe guarantees melt-in-your-mouth perfection with a rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor that will amaze your taste buds and become an instant favorite.

Ingredients

• 125g unsalted butter
• 100g brown sugar
• 50g granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 200g Nutella
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 150g all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 100g dark chocolate chips (optional, for extra indulgence)

Instructions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 165°C (347°F). Line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter on high speed using a hand or stand mixer until it is smooth, light, and creamy (about 1 minute).
3. Add both the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the butter. Continue beating on high speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
4. With the mixer on low speed, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
5. Add the Nutella and salt to the bowl. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, ensuring all Nutella is evenly mixed in by scraping down the bowl.
6. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the all-purpose flour and cocoa powder. Mix just until incorporated, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to dense brownies.
7. Once everything is mixed, pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. For extra indulgence, sprinkle the dark chocolate chips evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 27–34 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Baking times may vary by oven.
9. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy the fudgy perfection!

Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix flour and cocoa powder just until combined to keep brownies fudgy, not dense.
• Monitor your oven: Oven temperatures vary, so check brownies towards the end of baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Parchment paper is your friend: Use it to easily lift brownies out of the pan and achieve clean cuts.
• Allow for cooling: Let brownies cool completely before slicing to help them firm up and hold their shape for the best fudgy texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother, more emulsified batter.

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 16
Serving Size: 1 brownie

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 190Total Fat: 9gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 25mgCarbohydrates: 25gFiber: 4gSugar: 19gProtein: 3g

Nutrition is provided as a courtesy only. Please re-calculate on your own with the ingredients and amounts you used for the most accurate data.