Irresistible Fudgy Nutella Brownies: The Ultimate Easy Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Treat

Chewy around the edges and gloriously fudgy in the center, these Nutella brownies are destined to become your new favorite dessert! What makes them even better is their incredible simplicity, requiring just eight staple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Get ready to bake a batch of pure chocolate-hazelnut bliss.

When it comes to brownies, I have a very specific set of criteria. They must be chewy and slightly crisp around the edges, deeply fudgy and moist in the middle, and absolutely never, ever cakey in texture. These Nutella brownies not only meet but exceed all those expectations, delivering a truly decadent experience with every bite. The rich, dense texture combined with the irresistible flavor of chocolate and hazelnut creates a symphony for your taste buds.

And did I mention the magic ingredient? Nutella! This beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread isn’t just mixed generously into the brownie batter; it’s also artfully swirled on top just before they enter the oven. This dual application ensures that the iconic Nutella flavor shines through, creating a beautiful marbled effect and an extra layer of gooey deliciousness. I’ve found that three-fourths cup of Nutella is the perfect amount to truly amplify that delectable chocolate-hazelnut essence, making these brownies intensely flavorful and utterly addictive.

This remarkable Nutella brownie recipe is perfectly portioned for an 8-inch square pan, which is a convenient size for most home bakers. The beauty of these brownies lies not only in their rich flavor but also in their effortless preparation. They are incredibly rich and satisfying, yet can be whisked together at a moment’s notice, making them an ideal treat for unexpected cravings, impromptu gatherings, or simply when you need a quick pick-me-up. With only eight simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor and perfect texture you can achieve in such a short time.

Essential Ingredients for Your Fudgy Nutella Brownies

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You won’t need any exotic ingredients or a trip to a specialty store. Just a handful of common pantry staples are all it takes to create these extraordinary Nutella brownies. Let’s delve into what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that perfect fudgy texture and rich flavor:

• Unsalted Butter: Butter is fundamental for creating the rich, moist base of our brownies. Using unsalted butter gives you complete control over the salt content in your recipe. It’s important to slice the butter into tablespoon-sized pieces before melting; this increases the surface area, allowing it to melt more quickly and evenly alongside the chocolate, preventing any scorching.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate: For the best results, I highly recommend using a high-quality bar of semi-sweet chocolate, rather than chocolate chips. Chocolate bars typically have a higher cocoa butter content and fewer stabilizers than chips, which melt more smoothly and contribute to a truly fudgy, glossy brownie. Brands like Ghirardelli or Baker’s chocolate bars are excellent choices, providing that deep, rich chocolate flavor we’re after.
• Granulated Sugar: Sugar does more than just sweeten; it also plays a vital role in the texture of your brownies, contributing to their chewiness and moisture. In this recipe, I’ve used equal parts granulated sugar and Nutella to achieve a balanced sweetness that doesn’t overpower the intense chocolate-hazelnut flavor, ensuring the brownies are sweet yet profoundly chocolatey.
• Nutella: The star of the show! Nutella is incorporated into the brownie batter itself, infusing every bite with its signature chocolate-hazelnut goodness. Additionally, dollops are swirled on top just before baking, creating a beautiful marbled effect and an extra layer of gooey, hazelnut-rich flavor that makes these brownies truly unique and irresistible.
• Large Eggs: Eggs act as a binder and contribute significantly to the fudgy texture and richness of brownies. For optimal emulsification and a smoother batter, it’s crucial to use room temperature eggs. If you’ve forgotten to take them out in advance, a quick trick is to place them in a bowl of warm (not hot) water for 5 to 10 minutes before use.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract is essential for enhancing and deepening the chocolate flavor. It adds a subtle warmth and complexity that elevates the overall taste profile of the brownies. Always opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for the best possible flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: When measuring flour, precision is key to avoid cakey brownies. The “spoon and level” method is highly recommended: gently spoon the flour into your measuring cup until it overflows, then level it off with the back of a knife or a straight edge. Scooping flour directly from the bag can compact it, leading to an excess amount that results in a drier, more cake-like texture.
• Salt: Don’t underestimate the power of a pinch of salt! In baking, salt is a flavor enhancer, especially for chocolate. It brightens and intensifies the chocolate notes while perfectly balancing out the sweetness, preventing the brownies from tasting overly sugary.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Nutella Brownies

This is an incredibly simple recipe that consistently delivers delicious results. Follow these steps for an effortless baking experience and sensational brownies:

Preparing the Chocolate Base

Begin by combining the chopped semi-sweet chocolate and the pre-sliced unsalted butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl. It’s crucial to melt this mixture carefully to achieve a smooth, glossy base. Microwave in short bursts, typically 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each one. This gentle approach prevents the chocolate from seizing or scorching, ensuring a perfectly melted consistency. Continue this process until the mixture is completely smooth and homogeneous.

Mixing the Batter

Once your chocolate and butter mixture is melted and smooth, whisk in the granulated sugar until it is fully incorporated. This step helps to dissolve the sugar, contributing to the fudginess of the brownies. Next, add half a cup of the Nutella, whisking until it’s beautifully blended into the chocolate mixture, lending its rich hazelnut flavor. Then, incorporate the room temperature eggs and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until everything is well combined and the mixture is glossy. Finally, gently stir in the measured all-purpose flour and salt. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; mix only until just combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which can lead to a tougher, cakey brownie texture.

The Signature Nutella Swirl and Baking

At this stage, your rich brownie batter is ready to be transferred to an 8-inch square pan. Before you do, make sure to properly prepare your pan. Line it with aluminum foil, leaving a generous overhang on the sides – this will create “handles” that make it incredibly easy to lift the cooled brownies out of the pan. Crucially, spray the foil generously with nonstick cooking spray; otherwise, the brownies, especially with their fudgy texture, are prone to sticking.

Now for the gorgeous Nutella swirl! Take the remaining quarter cup of Nutella and place it in a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat it for just 10 to 15 seconds, or until it’s slightly softened and easier to drizzle and spread. Dollop spoonfuls of this softened Nutella onto the surface of the brownie batter in the pan. Then, using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the Nutella into the batter to create an attractive marbled pattern. Avoid over-swirling; a few gentle strokes are all you need for a stunning effect.

These delectable Nutella brownies will need to bake for approximately 32 to 38 minutes in a preheated oven set to 350°F (180°C). You’ll know they’re ready when the top appears set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. A completely clean toothpick often indicates an overbaked, drier brownie, so aim for those tender crumbs! Once baked, the hardest part begins: patience. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to slice them. This cooling time is essential for the brownies to set properly, ensuring that beautiful fudgy texture and clean cuts. Cutting them while warm will result in a gooey, crumbly mess, tempting as it may be.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nutella Brownies

Can I Double This Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe scales up beautifully. If you wish to make a larger batch to feed a crowd or simply have more for yourself, you are certainly fine to double this recipe. When doubling, bake the brownies in a 9×13-inch baking dish. The baking time will remain roughly the same, but it’s always a good idea to start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier, around the 30-minute mark, just in case your oven runs hotter or the larger pan affects baking slightly. Look for the same visual cues: set top and a toothpick with a few moist crumbs.

How Long Do Brownies Last?

These easy Nutella brownies maintain their incredible fudgy texture and rich flavor exceptionally well. When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days. For longer storage, you can also freeze them (see freezing instructions below), ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand.

Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations

These Nutella brownies are undeniably delicious on their own, but a few simple additions can elevate them even further. Serve them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the ice cream to melt into the fudgy goodness. A dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of extra warmed Nutella can add an elegant touch. For a contrasting flavor, fresh raspberries or strawberries pair wonderfully with the rich chocolate and hazelnut. A strong cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk makes the perfect accompaniment.

Feeling adventurous? Consider these delightful variations:

• Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped toasted hazelnuts or walnuts into the batter along with the flour for added texture and a boost of nutty flavor.
• Espresso Kick: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder or coffee granules into the melted butter and chocolate mixture to deepen the chocolate flavor without making it taste like coffee.
• Flaked Sea Salt: Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt over the Nutella swirl just before baking to enhance the chocolate and hazelnut notes with a delicious sweet-salty contrast.

Troubleshooting Common Brownie Baking Issues

Even simple recipes can sometimes present challenges. Here are solutions to a few common brownie-making dilemmas:

• “Why are my brownies cakey instead of fudgy?” This is usually due to one of two reasons: over-measuring flour or overmixing the batter. Always spoon and level your flour to avoid adding too much. When adding the flour, mix only until just combined – overmixing develops gluten, leading to a lighter, cake-like texture.
• “My brownies are dry.” The most common culprit for dry brownies is overbaking. Keep a close eye on your baking time and use the toothpick test as described in the instructions. It’s better to underbake slightly than to overbake.
• “My Nutella swirl sank to the bottom!” If your Nutella is too thin or hot, it might sink. Ensure it’s only slightly softened to a spreadable consistency, not liquid. Also, swirl gently rather than aggressively stirring it into the batter.
• “The chocolate seized when I melted it.” Chocolate seizing (becoming thick and grainy) can happen if even a tiny drop of water gets into the chocolate while melting, or if it’s overheated. Ensure your bowl and utensils are completely dry and use low heat/short intervals when microwaving.

More Easy Brownie Recipes to Try!

If you’ve fallen in love with these Nutella brownies, you’re in for a treat! Explore other equally delicious and easy brownie recipes from our collection:

• Cheesecake Brownies
• Classic Chocolate Brownies
• Raspberry Cheesecake Brownies
• Peanut Butter Cup Brownies
• Brownie in a Mug

Nutella Brownies

Prep Time: 20 minutes mins

Cook Time: 35 minutes mins

Cooling Time: 2 hours hrs

Total Time: 2 hours hrs 55 minutes mins

Chewy around the edges and fudgy in the center, these Nutella brownies are my new favorite! Even better, they’re made with just eight simple ingredients.

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe
SaveSaved!
Leave a Review

Ingredients

Servings: 16 bars

• ▢ ½ cup (115 grams) unsalted butter (sliced into tablespoon-sized pieces)
• ▢ 4 ounces (113 grams) semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
• ▢ ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• ▢ ¾ cup (225 grams) Nutella (divided)
• ▢ 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• ▢ 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ▢ ¾ cup (95 grams) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• ▢ ¼ teaspoon salt

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal. Spray the foil well with nonstick cooking spray (don’t skip this step or the brownies will stick to the foil) and set aside.
• Combine the sliced butter and chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second increments, stirring well after each increment, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
• Whisk in the granulated sugar until well combined, then whisk in ½ cup (150 grams) of Nutella until fully combined. Add the eggs and pure vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
• Add the flour and salt and continue mixing until just combined.
• Scoop the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it around into one even layer.
• Add the remaining ¼ cup (75 grams) of Nutella to a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 10 to 15 seconds and stir until smooth.
• Drop spoonfuls of the Nutella on top of the brownie batter (I like to do 9 spoonfuls), then use a knife to gently swirl the Nutella into the batter.
• Bake for 32 to 38 minutes or until the top of the brownies are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
• Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan. Using the overhang from the foil, lift the bars out of the pan, and slice into pieces.

Notes

Storage Instructions: Brownies may be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Freezing Instructions: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze in a large freezer bag/storage container for up to 3 months. Thaw to room temperature before serving.

Chocolate: I recommend using a bar of chocolate for this recipe, Ghirardelli or Baker’s chocolate bars work great.

Eggs: Make sure to use room temperature eggs for this recipe. To bring your eggs to room temperature quickly, place them in a bowl of warm water for 5 to 10 minutes.

Cuisine: American

Course: Dessert

Author: Danielle Rye

Did you make this recipe?Mention @livewellbakeoften on Instagram or tag #livewellbakeoften.