Nutella Brownies

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

These Nutella Brownies are pure indulgence in every bite—fudgy centers, crisp crackly tops, and a luscious swirl of creamy Nutella in every layer. Whether you’re a chocolate devotee or just craving a decadent dessert, these brownies deliver the ultimate comfort in one rich, gooey square. The balance between intense cocoa flavor and that unmistakable hazelnut sweetness creates a truly satisfying experience that feels both nostalgic and gourmet.

Perfect for sharing—or not—these brownies are easy enough for a weeknight bake but impressive enough for a party tray. Each bite melts in your mouth, loaded with deep chocolate notes, silky Nutella, and bits of melty chocolate chunks. They’re the kind of treat that makes people ask, “Did you really make these yourself?” Spoiler alert: yes, you did.

---

Why You’ll Love This Nutella Brownies Recipe

• Fudgy perfection with that shiny, crinkled top everyone wants.
• Nutella-forward flavor without being overpoweringly sweet.
• Requires simple pantry ingredients—no mixer needed.
• Ready in under an hour, including prep and bake time.
• A crowd-pleaser for birthdays, holidays, or anytime treats.
• Easily customizable with add-ins like chopped hazelnuts, sea salt, or espresso.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead magic.
• The perfect excuse to finish off that jar of Nutella (or open a new one!).

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and the Importance of Each)

Before diving into brownie bliss, it’s important to get your kitchen setup just right. Here are the tools you’ll need and why each plays a crucial role in making the perfect Nutella Brownies:

• Mixing Bowls (2) – One for the wet ingredients, another for dry. Helps prevent overmixing and ensures uniform texture.
• Whisk and Spatula – A whisk is essential for beating the eggs to help create that signature crackly top, while a spatula ensures smooth folding without deflating the batter.
• 8×8-inch Baking Pan – The ideal size to get thick, bakery-style brownies. Larger pans will result in thinner, overbaked bars.
• Parchment Paper – Prevents sticking and makes it super easy to lift the brownies out for clean slicing.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accuracy matters when baking; too much flour or cocoa and your brownies become dry.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Small Saucepan – For gently melting butter with Nutella and chocolate without scorching.
• Cooling Rack – Promotes even cooling so your brownies set properly and don’t get soggy bottoms.

---

Preparation Tips

• Room Temperature Eggs: These blend better with the other ingredients and help create a smoother batter.
• Warm the Nutella Slightly: If it’s too firm, a 10–15 second microwave zap will make it easier to mix and swirl.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined once you add the flour. Overworking the batter can make the brownies tough.
• Line Your Pan Right: Use parchment with overhang on the sides for easy lifting post-bake.
• Preheat Fully: Make sure your oven is at 350°F (175°C) before you put the pan in—brownies are sensitive to temperature shifts.
• Tap the Pan: After pouring the batter in, tap it on the counter to release air bubbles and settle the batter.
• Chill Before Cutting: Let the brownies cool completely, or chill slightly for the cleanest cuts (if you can wait that long!).

---

Ingredients for This Nutella Brownies Recipe

These rich and gooey brownies come together with just a few pantry staples. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter – Melted, for richness and chew.
• 1 cup (280g) Nutella – The star ingredient for deep hazelnut-chocolate flavor.
• 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and contributes to the crackly top.
• 2 large eggs – Room temperature, for structure and moisture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances all the chocolate notes.
• 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour – Just enough to hold everything together without making them cakey.
• 1/4 cup (25g) unsweetened cocoa powder – Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
• 1/4 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
• 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips or chopped chocolate – Optional, but highly recommended for melty chocolate pockets.

Optional Topping:

• Extra dollop of Nutella – Swirled on top before baking.
• Sea salt flakes – For sprinkling, if you want a gourmet finish.

---

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Nutella

In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and Nutella together until smooth and glossy. Stir often and don’t overheat—just enough to blend them into a silky mixture. Set aside to cool slightly.

---

Step 2: Whisk the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs and granulated sugar for 1–2 minutes until light in color and slightly thickened. This step is key for that shiny, crackly top.

---

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Pour the slightly cooled Nutella-butter mixture into the egg-sugar mixture. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until fully incorporated.

---

Step 4: Sift and Fold the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet using a spatula, mixing just until no streaks remain. Avoid overmixing.

---

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chunks (Optional)

Fold in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate for extra gooey texture. This step is optional but highly encouraged.

---

Step 6: Prepare the Pan and Add Batter

Line your 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang. Pour in the batter and smooth the top with your spatula. If desired, drop spoonfuls of Nutella on top and swirl with a knife.

---

Step 7: Bake

Place the pan in a fully preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

---

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool in the pan for 20–30 minutes. Then lift them out using the parchment paper and let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

---

Notes

• Customize the Texture: For extra fudgy brownies, lean toward the lower end of the baking time. For a more set, chewy finish, bake a few minutes longer.
• Nutella Swirl Tip: Warm Nutella slightly before swirling for prettier, smoother patterns on top.
• Use Good Cocoa: A high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder makes a huge difference in chocolate depth and flavor.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Egg Whisking: Not whisking the eggs and sugar properly will result in flat, dull-topped brownies. That shiny crackle comes from air in the mixture.
• Overbaking: The biggest culprit of dry brownies. Remove them from the oven when the center is just set—carryover cooking will finish the job.
• Using Cold Eggs or Butter: This can cause the batter to separate or seize. Make sure everything’s room temp.
• Overmixing the Batter: Especially after adding flour—mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can create tough, cakey brownies.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping directly from the bag packs too much flour. Spoon into your measuring cup and level off.
• Using a Dark Metal Pan Without Adjustments: These pans heat faster and can cause overbaking. Reduce oven temp by 10–15 degrees if using one.
• Slicing Too Soon: Let the brownies cool to get clean, firm squares. Warm brownies are delicious, but you’ll get a messy cut.
• Under-swirling the Nutella Topping: A few gentle strokes go a long way—don’t mix too much or it disappears into the batter.

---

What to Serve With Nutella Brownies?

These Nutella Brownies are rich and chocolatey on their own, but pairing them with the right sides and toppings can take them to a whole new level of indulgence.

8 Recommendations

1. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla cuts through the richness and adds a hot-cold contrast.
2. Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries bring brightness and a hint of tartness.
3. Espresso or Strong Coffee – The bitterness of coffee enhances the depth of the chocolate.
4. Whipped Cream – Light, fluffy, and slightly sweet—it makes every bite melt in your mouth.
5. Salted Caramel Drizzle – A warm caramel sauce complements the Nutella’s nutty sweetness.
6. Hazelnut Liqueur (like Frangelico) – For a grown-up treat, drizzle just a little over warm brownies.
7. Toasted Hazelnuts – Sprinkle some on top for crunch and to echo the Nutella’s core flavor.
8. Greek Yogurt – For a tangy, high-protein option that cuts the richness while keeping things creamy.

---

Storage Instructions

To keep your Nutella Brownies as irresistible as the day they were baked:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Refrigeration: If you like a denser texture, chill them. They’ll last up to 1 week in the fridge. Let them come to room temp before serving for best flavor.
• Freezer-Friendly: These brownies freeze beautifully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Brownie, Based on 9 Servings)

• Calories: 310
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 85mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Serving Size: 1 brownie

These values may vary slightly based on specific brands and exact measurements used.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Nutella Brownies without cocoa powder?

Yes, you can omit the cocoa powder, but expect a less intense chocolate flavor. If you do, reduce the flour slightly to keep the texture fudgy.

---

2. Can I use store-brand hazelnut spread instead of Nutella?

Absolutely. Most hazelnut spreads will work, though the flavor and sweetness might vary slightly. Choose one with a similar texture to Nutella for best results.

---

3. Why are my brownies too dry?

Overbaking is usually the cause. Make sure to remove them from the oven when the center still looks slightly soft, and always use the correct pan size.

---

4. How do I get clean brownie slices?

Let the brownies cool completely and use a sharp knife. For super clean cuts, chill the brownies and wipe the blade between slices.

---

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may increase by 5–10 minutes—watch the center closely.

---

6. Do I need to refrigerate the brownies?

Not unless you prefer a firmer texture or want to store them longer. Room temp storage is fine for up to 4 days.

---

7. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped hazelnuts, walnuts, or even crushed pretzels add great texture and flavor contrast.

---

8. Are these brownies gluten-free?

Not as written. To make them gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum or similar binding agents.

---

Conclusion

Nutella Brownies are a dreamy dessert for any chocolate lover—rich, gooey, and irresistibly decadent with that unmistakable hazelnut twist. They’re incredibly simple to make, yet taste like something you’d find in a boutique bakery. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, a cozy night in, or just to treat yourself, these brownies never disappoint. Keep them in your baking rotation—you’ll be glad you did.

---

Print