These brownies are not for the faint of heart! This recipe takes the classic fudgy brownie and elevates it to a whole new level of chocolatey indulgence with the addition of everyone's favorite hazelnut spread: Nutella. Get ready for a rich, intensely flavorful treat that will satisfy even the most discerning chocolate aficionado.
What Makes These Nutella Brownies Special?
This recipe isn't just about throwing Nutella into a standard brownie mix. We're focusing on creating a truly exceptional brownie experience. We'll be using high-quality cocoa powder for a deep, dark chocolate flavor, and achieving that perfect fudgy texture that's both chewy and moist. The Nutella is incorporated in two ways: swirled throughout the batter for pockets of hazelnut-chocolate goodness and as a decadent topping for an extra layer of richness.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup Nutella, divided (½ cup for swirling, ½ cup for topping)
Optional additions:
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work well)
- Chocolate chips
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt until smooth. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Swirl in the Nutella
Gently fold in ½ cup of Nutella until it's mostly swirled throughout the batter. Don't worry about making it perfectly even; the swirls add to the visual appeal. If using, add your nuts or chocolate chips now.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached (it shouldn't be completely clean).
Step 6: Add the Nutella Topping
While the brownies are still warm, drizzle the remaining ½ cup of Nutella over the top. Use a knife or spatula to create a nice, even spread, or leave it in a more rustic, drizzled pattern.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows them to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
While Nutella provides a unique hazelnut flavor, you could experiment with other chocolate spreads. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile might change.
How can I make these brownies vegan?
To make these vegan, you'll need to substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with a flax egg or applesauce, and ensure your chocolate spread is vegan-friendly.
How do I store leftover Nutella brownies?
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can freeze these brownies for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
What makes these brownies fudgy?
The ratio of wet to dry ingredients, along with the slightly underbaking, contributes to the fudgy texture. Don't overbake!
Enjoy your incredibly delicious and intensely chocolatey Nutella brownies! Remember to share them with friends and family (if you can bear to part with them!).
