If you are craving something irresistibly rich, fudgy, and downright decadent, this Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine biting into a perfectly baked brownie with a gooey, creamy core of Nutella that melts into every corner of your mouth. The combination of deep chocolate flavor with the luscious hazelnut cream makes these brownies a total showstopper for any casual dessert or special occasion. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just love spoiling yourself with chocolate, this recipe effortlessly delivers that wow factor you want with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for these Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each element plays an essential role in creating the rich texture, moist crumb, and irresistible taste that define perfect brownies with a Nutella surprise inside.
- 7.7 oz jar Nutella hazelnut spread: This is the star of the show, bringing creamy hazelnut butteriness that perfectly complements the chocolate.
- 1/2 cup butter (salted): Adds richness and contributes to the fudgy texture brownies are famous for.
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies moist without weighing them down, helping balance out the butter.
- 4 oz unsweetened chocolate baking bar: Provides the deep, intense chocolate flavor that makes these brownies so decadent.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while encouraging that shiny crackly top.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed): Adds a hint of molasses flavor and helps keep brownies chewy and moist.
- 2 eggs + 1 egg yolk: Eggs bind everything together and give the brownies structure with a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the chocolate and Nutella flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides just the right amount of backbone to hold these layers together without being cakey.
- 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For those pockets of rich chocolate bursts that melt in your mouth.
How to Make Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining a square baking pan with parchment paper. This will not only keep your brownies from sticking but make sure the Nutella layer you’ll add later peels off perfectly. Getting this step right is crucial for the layered magic to work smoothly.
Step 2: Create the Nutella Layer
Spoon the entire jar of Nutella onto the lined pan, spreading it out into a thin, even layer. Pop this into the freezer for at least an hour. This chilling step solidifies the Nutella so it can hold its shape as a beautiful, gooey center later on.
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter
While the Nutella chills, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Melt the butter and unsweetened chocolate together, either in the microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler until smooth. Stir frequently to avoid burning and ensure a glossy chocolate base.
Step 4: Mix in the Sugars and Fats
Add the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar to the melted chocolate mixture. Mixing these well creates a perfect balance of sweetness and moisture that your brownie batter needs for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 5: Combine the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the two whole eggs plus the extra egg yolk and vanilla extract into the batter. These ingredients add richness, extra tenderness, and a subtle vanilla warmth that marries beautifully with chocolate and Nutella.
Step 6: Add Flour and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the flour to keep the batter light, then sprinkle in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. These little bursts of chocolate texture will make your brownies even more indulgent.
Step 7: Assemble the Layers
Grease your baking dish, making sure it is at room temperature—not chilled—so your batter cooks evenly. Pour half of the brownie batter into the dish, smoothing out the surface. Carefully lift the frozen Nutella layer off the parchment paper and place it on top. Then cover the Nutella sheet with the remaining brownie batter.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake your masterpiece for 30 minutes. The edges should be set but the center still soft, holding that velvety Nutella core inside. Once out of the oven, allow the brownies to cool completely. This resting time helps them firm up and makes cutting tidy, revealing beautiful layers inside.
How to Serve Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These brownies are stunning on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate enhances their look and adds just the right touch of sweetness. If you want an extra special treat, topping with chopped hazelnuts or a dollop of whipped cream adds texture and elegance.
Side Dishes
Pair your Nutella Stuffed Brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a side of fresh berries. The cold creaminess contrasts wonderfully with the fudgy warmth of the brownies, while the berries add a refreshing burst of natural tartness that cuts through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the brownies warm with a little extra Nutella drizzled on top or create a brownie sundae by layering chunks with ice cream, nuts, and berries in a glass. For gatherings, cut them into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter for easy sharing and maximum delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Nutella Stuffed Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, opt for refrigeration to keep them fresh and the Nutella core intact without melting too much.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, which means you can enjoy this Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe anytime the craving strikes.
Reheating
To warm frozen brownies, let them thaw at room temperature, then heat gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This revives that freshly-baked softness and brings the Nutella center to luscious melted goodness once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
Absolutely! While Nutella brings its signature hazelnut flavor, any chocolate-hazelnut or chocolate almond spread can work well. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when frozen.
Why do I need to freeze the Nutella layer before baking?
Freezing the Nutella creates a solid layer that won’t mix into the batter during baking, giving you that beautiful, distinct creamy center in your brownies.
Are these brownies cakey or fudgy?
These Nutella Stuffed Brownies strike the perfect balance, leaning towards fudgy and moist thanks to the butter, oil, and chocolate layers, with a soft nutty surprise in the middle.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Just watch the texture as gluten-free flours can behave differently; adding a binding agent like xanthan gum might help.
How do I prevent the Nutella from leaking during baking?
The key is chilling the Nutella layer thoroughly and not spreading it too thick. Also, be gentle when layering the batter on top to keep the Nutella intact throughout baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the way the Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe combines luscious chocolate and creamy hazelnut in one bite. It’s a dessert that brings comfort and excitement all at once, perfect for sharing or treating yourself. I encourage you to dive into this recipe and experience firsthand how simple ingredients and thoughtful steps come together to make something extraordinary. Your chocolate-loving soul will thank you!
Print
Nutella Stuffed Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 75 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich and fudgy Nutella Stuffed Brownies featuring a creamy Nutella layer sandwiched between layers of smooth chocolate brownie batter. These brownies combine the deep chocolate flavor of unsweetened baking chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate chips with the irresistible hazelnut taste of Nutella for a decadent dessert perfect for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
Nutella Layer
- 7.7 oz. jar Nutella hazelnut spread
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 oz. unsweetened chocolate baking bar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (approximately 3/4 cup)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large 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 ensuring it fits snugly without wrinkles.
- Spread Nutella Layer: Spread the entire jar (~7.7 oz) of Nutella in a thin, even layer over the parchment paper inside the baking pan.
- Freeze Nutella: Place the pan in the freezer for at least 1 hour until the Nutella forms a solid, firm layer.
- Remove Nutella Layer: Carefully lift the parchment paper with the frozen Nutella layer out of the pan and return it to the freezer to keep it firm while preparing the brownie batter.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to have it ready for baking the brownies.
- Melt Butter and Chocolate: Chop the unsweetened chocolate bar into small pieces. Melt the butter and chocolate together in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. This should take about 1.5 to 2 minutes.
- Mix Sugars and Oil: To the melted chocolate and butter mixture, add the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Stir until thoroughly combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the two whole eggs and one egg yolk along with the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly through the batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease the baking dish if not already lined, ensuring it is at room temperature—do not put the dish straight from the freezer into the oven.
- Layer Batter and Nutella: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Nutella Layer: Take the frozen Nutella layer from the freezer and carefully peel away the parchment paper. Place the Nutella sheet over the brownie batter layer in the baking dish.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Spread the remaining brownie batter evenly over the Nutella layer, ensuring it is fully covered.
- Bake: Place the assembled brownies in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the edges comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into 16 squares. This resting time helps the brownies set and prevents gooey cut edges.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature eggs to ensure even mixing of batter.
- Do not overbake the brownies to keep them moist and fudgy.
- Freezing the Nutella layer separately prevents it from mixing into the brownie batter and keeps a distinct creamy texture.
- You can line the baking pan with parchment paper with an overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out for cutting.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
