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If you’re craving a dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with a luscious, creamy surprise inside, then you have to try this Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe. It’s one of those magical treats that hits every chocolate lover’s dream, blending intense chocolate flavor with the irresistible hazelnut cream for a gooey center that makes every bite unforgettable. This recipe transforms classic brownies into a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for sharing, celebrating, or simply indulging in a little happiness at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these Nutella Stuffed Brownies starts with a handful of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that play key roles in delivering the perfect texture and flavor. Each item enhances the fudginess, chocolate depth, or that iconic Nutella creaminess that makes this recipe so special.
- Nutella hazelnut spread: The star ingredient providing a silky, sweet, nutty filling that sets this brownie apart.
- Butter (salted): Adds richness and helps create a tender, moist brownie crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies moist and fudgy without weighing them down.
- Unsweetened chocolate baking bar: Delivers intense chocolate flavor and depth.
- Granulated sugar: Balances bitterness from the chocolate and adds sweetness.
- Light brown sugar (packed): Adds subtle caramel notes and helps with moistness.
- Eggs + egg yolk: Provide structure, richness, and help bind the batter together.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, giving a warm aroma and depth.
- All-purpose flour: The base that holds everything in place while keeping brownies tender.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Add texture bursts and extra pockets of melted chocolate goodness.
How to Make Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Nutella Layer
Start by lining a square baking pan with parchment paper—this will make handling the Nutella layer a breeze. Spread the entire jar of Nutella evenly and thinly over the parchment. Place this pan in the freezer for at least an hour so the Nutella solidifies into a firm sheet that can be lifted without any mess. This step is crucial for that perfect gooey center that stays put during baking.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter
While your Nutella layer chills, preheat the oven to 350°F. Melt the butter and chopped unsweetened chocolate bar together in 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth and fully combined. Then, stir in the vegetable oil along with the granulated and brown sugars. This mixture will smell divine and sets the foundation for fudgy brownies.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flour
Next, beat in the eggs and extra egg yolk along with the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and cohesive. Stir in the all-purpose flour, mixing just enough to combine without overworking the batter—this keeps the brownies tender. Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for those pockets of melty chocolate joy.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Grease a baking dish and spread half of the brownie batter evenly across the bottom. Retrieve the Nutella sheet from the freezer and carefully peel away the parchment paper, then gently lay the solid Nutella layer over the batter. Finally, cover with the remaining brownie batter, making sure the Nutella is fully encased but evenly spread.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your brownies in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. The edges should be set and the center should look fudgy but not wet. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing—this resting time allows the Nutella center to set slightly, giving you those beautiful, gooey slices that everyone loves.
How to Serve Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top adds an elegant touch without overpowering the rich flavors within. For a bit of texture, crushed toasted hazelnuts sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch and enhance the nutty theme.
Side Dishes
Nutella Stuffed Brownies shine best on their own, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes the experience to the next level. Fresh berries or a simple espresso can also provide a refreshing contrast to the brownie’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the box by serving these brownies as a decadent dessert tray centerpiece or cut into bite-sized squares for a party platter. Wrapping individual brownies in parchment and tied with a ribbon makes for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is a great option, helping maintain the firmness of the Nutella center while keeping the brownies moist.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight to preserve their gooey texture perfectly.
Reheating
Warm a brownie slice in the microwave for about 10 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven warmth and melty Nutella center. Be careful not to overheat, or the brownie may dry out.
FAQs
Can I use any other hazelnut spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! While Nutella is the classic choice for its perfect balance of sweetness and hazelnut flavor, other hazelnut spreads with similar texture will work well. Just ensure they spread smoothly and freeze solid for the best results in this recipe.
Do I need to use parchment paper for the Nutella layer?
Yes, parchment paper is essential here as it prevents the Nutella from sticking to the pan and allows you to easily lift and transfer the frozen Nutella layer onto the brownie batter without ruining its shape.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in equal amounts. The texture might vary slightly, but the delicious Nutella filling will still shine through beautifully.
Is it possible to bake these in a different sized pan?
Yes, though baking times may vary if you use a pan larger or smaller than recommended. Keep an eye on the baking progress and test for doneness by checking for a set top with a slightly fudgy center.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The edges should look set and slightly pulling away from the pan, while the center remains tender and moist but not raw. It’s okay if there’s a little wobble in the center since the Nutella adds extra moisture, but the batter should not be runny.
Final Thoughts
Making this Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe at home is like creating a little piece of chocolate heaven that’s guaranteed to impress everyone at your table. The combination of fudgy brownies and that dreamy Nutella center is pure magic—so go ahead, dive into this recipe, and treat yourself to something truly exceptional. You deserve every delicious bite!
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Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in rich, fudgy Nutella Stuffed Brownies featuring a creamy hazelnut spread center encased in a luscious chocolate brownie batter. This recipe combines melted unsweetened chocolate with buttery, sweetened brownie layers, while a frozen Nutella layer adds an irresistible surprise in the middle, creating a decadent treat perfect for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Nutella Layer
- 7.7 oz jar Nutella hazelnut spread (approximately 8 oz)
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 oz unsweetened chocolate baking bar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 eggs plus 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line a square baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease removal of the brownies.
- Spread Nutella: Evenly spread the entire jar (about 8 oz) of Nutella in a thin, smooth layer over the parchment paper in the baking pan.
- Freeze Nutella Layer: Place the pan with Nutella in the freezer for at least 1 hour until the Nutella solidifies into a firm layer.
- Remove Nutella Sheet: Carefully lift the frozen Nutella along with the parchment paper from the baking dish. Return the Nutella layer to the freezer to keep it firm while preparing the batter.
- Preheat Oven and Melt Chocolate: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chopped unsweetened chocolate bar in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth and melted—this typically takes 1.5 to 2 minutes.
- Combine Sugars and Fats: Stir the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar into the melted butter and chocolate mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the 2 eggs plus 1 egg yolk along with vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until just combined—avoid overmixing to maintain brownie tenderness.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and bursts of chocolate.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease the baking dish thoroughly. Make sure the dish is at room temperature; do not place a frozen dish directly in the oven.
- Layer Batter and Nutella: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the greased baking dish. Remove the Nutella layer from the freezer, peel away the parchment paper, and carefully lay the Nutella sheet over the first brownie batter layer. Then top with the remaining brownie batter, smoothing the surface.
- Bake: Bake the assembled brownies in the preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes until set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 servings to ensure clean slices and prevent the Nutella from oozing.
Notes
- Freezing the Nutella layer solid ensures it won’t melt into the brownie batter, creating a distinct surprise layer.
- Do not skip chilling the pan to room temperature after removing the frozen Nutella layer to prevent thermal shock and potential dish damage in the oven.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of Nutella and final brownies.
- For extra fudginess, avoid overbaking; brownies should be moist inside.
- Nutella spread can be substituted with other chocolate-hazelnut spreads if desired.
