Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love these Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies because they are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts. Whenever I bake them, the whole house fills with a warm, inviting aroma that makes everyone eager to indulge. The moist, fudgy texture is simply irresistible, and I often find myself going back for seconds. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, especially for gatherings, as it elevates a classic dessert with an elegant twist. You won’t want to miss out on these deliciously decadent treats!
When I first decided to make Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies, I wanted to create something that would stand out and impress my friends. After testing different ratios of chocolate to nuts, I found the magical balance that resulted in a moist and flavorful brownie, bursting with nutty goodness and deep chocolate flavor.
One crucial tip I discovered is to let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This allows them to firm up, ensuring each slice remains intact. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You'll Love These Brownies
- Decadent chocolate flavor enriched with crunchy hazelnuts
- Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
Using high-quality cocoa powder can significantly impact the taste of your brownies. I recommend opting for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper, richer chocolate flavor. The unsweetened cocoa powder here not only provides the essential chocolatey taste but also ensures that the brownies maintain their perfect fudgy texture. Remember, the better the ingredients, the better the outcome—so choose wisely!
Fresh, organic eggs will enhance your brownie’s structure and moisture. The eggs not only bind the ingredients but also contribute to the brownies' fudgy consistency. If you're short on time, you can substitute with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). This can slightly change the texture but is an excellent alternative for those seeking a vegan option.
Techniques for Perfecting Texture
When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Folding the batter just until combined is key to achieving a fudgy brownie rather than a cakey one. Look for a batter that is slightly thick and glossy. If you overmix, the gluten in the flour can activate too much, leading to brownies that aren't as tender and rich.
To ensure even baking, spread the batter smoothly into the corners of the pan. The edges should appear slightly set and a little shiny, while the center remains soft and gooey. If your toothpick comes out with more than a few moist crumbs, it may indicate that they've overbaked. Keep an eye on them, as every oven can vary slightly in temperature.
Ingredients
For the Brownies
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (150g) chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Blend Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
Add Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips
Gently stir in the chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!
Pro Tips
- For an extra nutty flavor, toast the hazelnuts in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the batter.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These brownies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for gatherings. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them. Cut the brownies into squares, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and they can last for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for the best taste.
To reheat brownies without losing their fudgy texture, pop them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will restore some warmth and give you that freshly-baked feel. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
Variations to Try
You can easily adapt this recipe for different flavor profiles or dietary preferences. For a more indulgent treat, fold in some caramel swirls or a teaspoon of espresso powder into the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor further. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can also create an exciting contrast with the sweetness.
If you're looking to cut back on sugar, consider reducing the granulated and brown sugar by a quarter each. You might need to adjust the butter slightly, as the dryness can increase. Alternatively, using a sugar substitute designed for baking can yield satisfactory results without compromising on taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or pecans also work well in this recipe.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week.
→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I serve with these brownies?
They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
I love these Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies because they are the perfect combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts. Whenever I bake them, the whole house fills with a warm, inviting aroma that makes everyone eager to indulge. The moist, fudgy texture is simply irresistible, and I often find myself going back for seconds. This recipe has become a favorite in my home, especially for gatherings, as it elevates a classic dessert with an elegant twist. You won’t want to miss out on these deliciously decadent treats!
Created by: Harper Collins
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Brownies
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (50g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (150g) chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup (90g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
Gently stir in the chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious homemade treats!
Extra Tips
- For an extra nutty flavor, toast the hazelnuts in the oven for a few minutes before adding them to the batter.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g