Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups granulated sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped hazelnuts; 1 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts creates an indulgent treat that is simply irresistible. Each bite is packed with flavor and a delightful texture, making it perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. I love serving these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. They’re a crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:19:14.159Z

I remember the first time I made these Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies; I couldn’t believe how delicious they turned out. The trick is to toast the hazelnuts beforehand. This simple step intensifies their flavor significantly, adding an aromatic quality that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. I used a mix of dark and milk chocolate to achieve a balanced sweetness that everyone loves.

When I bake these brownies, I make sure not to overmix the batter. This keeps them fudgy and moist, which is essential for the perfect brownie experience. Make sure to let them cool before cutting; it gives them the right texture and structure for a beautiful presentation.

        Why You'll Love These Brownies
        A perfect balance of rich chocolate and nutty hazelnut flavors
Dense and fudgy texture that melts in your mouth
Ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth during any gathering

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving the perfect texture in these Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies lies in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. The melted butter not only adds richness but also aids in creating that fudgy, dense consistency, while the granulated sugar contributes to both flavor and moisture. Make sure the butter is not too hot when mixing with the sugar to avoid cooking the eggs; hum the melted butter until it's cool but still liquid.

Cocoa powder is essential here, as it imparts the deep chocolate flavor that these brownies are known for. Opting for a high-quality cocoa powder will enhance the final taste significantly. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute half of the cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother flavor profile, but this will alter the overall color slightly.

Mastering the Technique

When incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, be cautious not to overmix. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a cakier brownie rather than the desired fudgy texture. Mix just until you see traces of dry ingredients disappearing; some lumps are completely acceptable. I find that using a rubber spatula helps in folding the ingredients gently without deflating the batter.

For the chocolate chips, you can use semi-sweet, dark, or even milk chocolate depending on your preference. If you're feeling adventurous, try substituting some of the chocolate chips with butterscotch or peanut butter chips to add a twist to the flavor. Just keep the total amount of mix-ins to around two cups to maintain the batter's consistency.

Ingredients

For the Brownies

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

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate and fresh hazelnuts for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Add Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips

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

Bake the Brownies

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish 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

Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and enjoy!

For an extra treat, serve the brownies warm with a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of nuts or chocolate to create your own unique brownie flavor. Adding a pinch of sea salt on top right before baking can enhance the sweetness of the brownies.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. However, if you want to prolong their freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they can last for up to a week. To serve, simply bring them back to room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat that revives that fudgy texture.

If you plan ahead, you can make the brownie batter a day in advance. Simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, bring the batter back to room temperature before pouring it into the prepared baking dish and baking as instructed.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies shine as they are, but you can elevate their presentation by serving them with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate ganache. Pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of warm and cold, enhancing the overall indulgence of the dessert.

For added texture and flavor, consider topping each brownie with crushed hazelnuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking. This not only adds visual appeal but also a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the fudgy interior. If you're serving for guests, cut the brownies into smaller squares for elegant portion control.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

→ What can I serve with brownies?

Pair them with ice cream, whipped cream, or fresh berries for a delicious dessert experience.