There’s something about the heady scent of toasted hazelnuts mingling with rich, gooey Nutella that instantly transports me to my favorite bakery corner. When I set out to create these Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies, I knew I was aiming for more than just a dessert—I was looking for a decadent treat that can transform an ordinary afternoon into a moment of bliss.
With a buttery, chewy texture and a delightful swirl of dark chocolate, these blondies promise to be a showstopper at any gathering or simply a cozy indulgence on a quiet night. You can whip them up in no time, and I guarantee they’ll impress even the most hardcore brownie fans. Perfect for those days when you crave something sweet but want it to be a step above your usual fare, let these blondies redefine your dessert experience. Grab your apron and get ready to embark on a chocolate-hazelnut journey that will leave your taste buds singing!
Why are Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies a must-try?
Decadent Delight: Every bite offers a rich combination of Nutella and chocolate chips, making it truly indulgent.
Simple Preparation: With just a few pantry staples, these blondies come together quickly and easily—perfect for busy bakers.
Nostalgic Flavors: The toasted hazelnuts and creamy texture evoke feelings of warmth and comfort, reminiscent of your favorite bakery treats.
Endless Customization: Swap in almond flour for a twist or fold in your favorite mix-ins for a personalized touch.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for gatherings or a cozy night in, these blondies will delight family and friends alike!
Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies Ingredients
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Large Egg – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients; no known substitutes for this recipe.
- Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens and enhances flavor; can replace with granulated sugar for a less complex sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; using almond extract will give a different aroma.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure; gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute.
For the Nutty Goodness
- Hazelnut Meal – Provides nutty flavor and texture; can be substituted with almond flour for a milder taste.
- Nutella – Adds sweetness and hazelnut flavor; consider substituting with a chocolate hazelnut spread if desired.
- Semi-Sweet or Bittersweet Chocolate Chips – Contributes additional chocolate flavor; swap with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
How to Make Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, prepare an 8×8 baking pan by lightly spraying it and lining with foil or parchment paper for easy removal.
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Cream Mixture: In a mixing bowl, cream together melted unsalted butter, the large egg, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth. This will create a lovely base for your blondies.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in all-purpose flour and hazelnut meal to your creamed mixture, mixing until just incorporated. The batter should be thick and slightly glossy.
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Add Nutella and Chocolate: Gently swirl in Nutella, allowing it to create ribbons throughout the batter. Fold in the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips for that extra chocolatey goodness.
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Spread into Pan: Evenly spread the batter into your prepared baking pan. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top for added texture and sweetness.
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Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. They should be slightly underbaked for the best chewy texture, so keep a close eye!
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Cool & Slice: Once baked, let your blondies cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. This will set their delicious moist texture perfectly!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies
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Avoid Overbaking: Monitor your blondies closely; they should be soft in the center when you pull them out. Slightly underbaked blondies yield the best texture.
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Toast Hazelnuts: Enhance the flavor by toasting hazelnuts on a baking sheet at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes before adding them to your batter.
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Proper Mixing: Don’t over-mix your batter after adding the flour and hazelnut meal. Gently fold until just combined to maintain a tender crumb in your blondies.
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Customize Chocolates: Feel free to mix different types of chocolate chips—semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate—for a unique twist in your Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies.
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Chill Before Cutting: Allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan. A few hours in the refrigerator can help them firm up, making slicing easier and cleaner.
Make Ahead Options
These Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies are perfect for those busy weeks when you want to indulge without the last-minute scramble! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients as directed, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before spreading it into the pan and baking.
For longer storage, you can also bake the blondies ahead of time, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. This way, your treats will be just as delicious when it’s time to enjoy them!
Storage Tips for Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies
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Room Temperature: Store your blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavors.
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Fridge: For extended freshness, keep the blondies refrigerated for up to 2 weeks; simply allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
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Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the blondies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, simply microwave a blondie for 10-15 seconds until heated through, enhancing that gooey Nutella goodness!
What to Serve with Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these ludicrously good blondies with delightful accompaniments that enhance their heavenly flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla beautifully complements the rich chocolate-hazelnut goodness, providing a delightful contrast in temperatures. The ice cream melts slightly into the warm blondies, creating a luscious treat that is pure bliss!
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce on top takes indulgence to a whole new level. It adds a decadent touch that elevates each bite to a chocolaty paradise.
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Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like raspberries or strawberries contrasts harmoniously with the sweetness of the blondies, bringing a refreshing element to your dessert plate. Their vibrant colors also make your dish visually stunning!
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Espresso: A shot of bold espresso can cut through the richness of the blondies, offering a lovely balance to the dessert. Sip it alongside your treat for a sophisticated coffeehouse experience right at home.
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Toasted Hazelnuts: For an extra nutty crunch, sprinkle toasted hazelnuts on top of your blondies. They enhance the hazelnut flavor while adding a delightful texture that elevates the overall dessert experience.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel adds a sweet-savory contrast that beautifully elevates the chocolate and hazelnut flavors while providing an addictive umami punch.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream is a timeless classic pairing that provides a creamy counterpart to the chewy texture of the blondies, making each bite feel even more luxurious.
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Mint Tea: Serve a warm cup of mint tea to contrast the sweet flavors, refreshing your palate and complementing the hazelnut notes for a delightful finish to your dessert experience.
Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies Customization
Feel free to embrace your creativity with this delightful recipe and make it your own!
- Nut-Free: Swap hazelnut meal with sunflower seed flour or oat flour for a nut-free version that still has a lovely texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these blondies safe for those with gluten sensitivity—everyone can enjoy!
- Caramel Swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce into the batter before baking for a rich, sweet twist that enhances the flavor beautifully.
- Caffeine Kick: Add 2 tablespoons of espresso powder for a rich mocha flavor; it pairs wonderfully with chocolate and hazelnuts.
- Spicy Extra: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for an unexpected kick and a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
- Fruit Twist: Fold in ½ cup of chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a chewy, fruity contrast against the chocolate.
- Coconut Bliss: Mix in ½ cup of shredded unsweetened coconut for a tropical flavor and chewy texture that complements the hazelnuts.
- Double Chocolate: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder for an ultra-chocolatey blondie that’s pure indulgence.
Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right hazelnuts for the Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies?
When selecting hazelnuts, look for those that are plump, firm, and have a rich, nutty aroma. Avoid any nuts with dark spots or signs of moisture, as they may be stale. If possible, opt for toasted hazelnuts to enhance their flavor; you can toast them at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until fragrant.
What is the best way to store my Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they’ve cooled completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze my Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies?
Absolutely! To freeze them, wrap the blondies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
What should I do if my blondies are too dry?
If you find that your blondies have turned out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Ensure you check for doneness around the 20-minute mark; they should be slightly underbaked for that chewy texture. Next time, try reducing baking time or adding a little more Nutella to the batter for added moisture.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains nuts, specifically hazelnuts, which can be a common allergen. Always check for any nut allergies in those you plan to serve. If you need a nut-free option, you can substitute hazelnut meal with a seed meal, like sunflower seed flour, and ensure that all other ingredients are free of cross-contamination.
What variations can I try with my Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies?
Feel free to get creative! You can replace hazelnut meal with almond flour for a different flavor profile or swap Nutella with peanut butter for a fun twist. Adding mix-ins like dried fruit or caramel bits can also bring exciting textures and flavor combinations to your blondies.
Outrageous Chocolate Hazelnut Blondies That Will Wow You
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare an 8x8 baking pan by lightly spraying it and lining with foil or parchment paper.
- Cream together melted unsalted butter, large egg, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually mix in all-purpose flour and hazelnut meal until just incorporated.
- Gently swirl in Nutella and fold in chocolate chips.
- Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
- Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.