Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I've always had a soft spot for brownies, but when I decided to add hazelnuts and a touch of chocolate, my world changed! The combination of rich, gooey chocolate with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts creates a heavenly indulgence that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a delightful contrast between smooth and crunchy textures. Baking these brownies became a family tradition, and I love how they always bring smiles at gatherings. Whether enjoyed with ice cream or on their own, these brownies are sure to become your new favorite treat.

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:09:34.772Z

Baking these Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies was a delightful experience. I wanted something that combined the classic richness of brownies with a unique nutty flavor, reflecting both comfort and indulgence. I found that roasting the hazelnuts beforehand really elevated their flavor, creating a perfect harmony with the chocolate. The process is simple, yet the outcome feels luxurious.

I also learned that allowing the brownies to cool before cutting them helps maintain their fudgy texture and prevents them from crumbling. It's a small detail, but one that truly makes a difference. Each brownie is rich with chocolate flavor and complemented by the crunch of hazelnuts, making them irresistible!

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
Fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing on special occasions or enjoying solo

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to mastering these chocolate hazelnut brownies. The unsalted butter not only provides richness but also contributes to a fudgy texture, while the granulated sugar balances the bitterness of the cocoa powder and aids in achieving that desirable shiny top. The eggs play a crucial part in creating structure and stability, ensuring that your brownies don’t crumble when cut, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.

Cocoa powder forms the backbone of the chocolate flavor in these brownies. Opting for a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder can elevate your brownies significantly. The chopped hazelnuts add not just crunch but also a naturally sweet, nutty flavor that complements the rich chocolate beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for an extra layer of depth.

Perfecting the Texture

To achieve that coveted fudgy texture, avoid overmixing your batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined, and you'll notice small streaks of flour remaining. This ensures the brownies remain dense and gooey rather than cake-like. Remember, a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, indicating they are perfectly baked without being undercooked.

If you prefer an ultra-fudgy brownie, consider reducing the flour by a couple of tablespoons. Conversely, if you enjoy a more cake-like texture, you could slightly increase the flour or add an extra egg to provide more lift. Experimenting with these adjustments can help tailor the brownies to your ideal consistency.

Storage and Serving Tips

These brownies are delicious right out of the oven, but they also store remarkably well. To keep them fresh, wrap the cooled brownies tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature for up to four days. If you need to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option. Just cut the brownies into squares, place them in an airtight container, and they can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.

Serving these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel elevates the experience even further. For a stunning presentation, top with crushed hazelnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar to add a touch of elegance. Consider pairing them with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast that complements the richness of the chocolate.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a batch of irresistible Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup roasted hazelnuts, chopped
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you’re set to bake some amazing brownies!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your rich and indulgent brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

Melt Butter and Mix Sugar

In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well blended.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture until combined.

Stir in Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chopped hazelnuts and chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly moist.

Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Once you've cooled the brownies and cut them into squares, they’re ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

For an extra treat, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled brownies before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with brownies is overbaking, which results in a dry texture. To prevent this, keep a close eye on your brownies during the last few minutes of baking. If the edges are pulling away but the center looks slightly underbaked, that’s an ideal time to take them out. Remember that brownies continue to cook slightly while cooling.

If you find your brownies are crumbly after cutting, this can be due to either overmixing or insufficient fat content. Ensuring you’re using enough butter and being gentle when folding in the dry ingredients can help mitigate this. If you prefer softer, chewier brownies, reduce the cocoa powder slightly and add a tablespoon of oil for extra moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for gluten-free options, you can replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of almond flour. This will add a nutty flavor that complements the hazelnuts beautifully while maintaining a fudgy texture. Just be aware that almond flour generally requires a slightly longer baking time, so keep an eye on them as they bake.

For those who are dairy-free, substituting coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative can yield great results without compromising flavor. Additionally, maple syrup can replace granulated sugar for a healthier twist, though this may also change the texture slightly, making it denser than the original recipe.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also throw in some chocolate mint chips or a swirl of peanut butter for a unique twist. Chopping up dark chocolate bars and mixing them into the batter can introduce delightful melty pockets of chocolate throughout the brownies.

For a festive touch, consider adding a layer of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to create a salted caramel brownie experience. This not only elevates the flavor but also adds an appealing visual texture that makes these brownies even more enticing!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Yes, feel free to substitute with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

→ What can I serve these brownies with?

They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.