Nutella Stuffed Brownies: Decadent Gooey Goodness in Every Bite!

If you’re looking for the ultimate indulgence, look no further! These Nutella Stuffed Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream come true. Rich, fudgy brownies with a molten Nutella center – what’s not to love? This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow and guarantees a batch of decadent brownies that will disappear in minutes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a chocolate fix, these brownies are the perfect treat.

This recipe provides step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your Nutella stuffed brownies are perfectly gooey and irresistible. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to mastering the bake time, so you can achieve brownie perfection every time.

Why You’ll Love These Nutella Stuffed Brownies:

• Incredibly Fudgy: The high butter and chocolate content creates a rich, decadent, and irresistibly fudgy brownie texture.
• Gooey Nutella Center: A generous dollop of Nutella in the middle of each brownie provides a molten, nutty, and utterly delicious surprise.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
• Impressive Presentation: These brownies look beautiful and are perfect for serving to guests or bringing to a potluck.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like chopped nuts, sea salt, or chocolate chips to personalize your brownies.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and ensure you don’t forget anything crucial.

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the brownies. Make sure it’s melted.
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and contributes to the chewy texture.
• ½ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds intense chocolate flavor. Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best results.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 2 Large Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the chocolate.
• ½ cup All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the brownies.

For the Nutella Filling:

• ½ cup Nutella: The star of the show! You’ll need enough to create small dollops for each brownie.

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped Nuts (Walnuts, Pecans, Hazelnuts): Add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Sea Salt: Enhances the sweetness and chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate Chips (Milk, Dark, or White): For extra chocolatey goodness.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• 8×8 inch Baking Pan: This size pan will give you perfectly thick brownies.
• Parchment Paper: To line the baking pan for easy removal.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing the brownie batter.
• Whisk: For combining the wet ingredients.
• Spatula: For folding in the dry ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Small Cookie Scoop or Spoon: For portioning the Nutella filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own batch of irresistible Nutella Stuffed Brownies.

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides. This will make it easy to lift the brownies out of the pan after baking. Grease the parchment paper lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.

Step 3: Add the Cocoa Powder and Salt

Sift the cocoa powder into the butter and sugar mixture. This helps to prevent lumps and ensures the cocoa powder is evenly distributed. Add the salt and stir until well combined. The mixture will be thick and dark.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla Extract

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract. The batter should be smooth and glossy at this point.

Step 5: Gently Fold in the Flour

Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, folding it in gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies. Mix until just combined; a few streaks of flour are okay.

Step 6: Prepare the Nutella Filling

If the Nutella is too firm to scoop easily, microwave it for a few seconds until it’s slightly softened. You want it to be easily scoopable but not completely melted. Line a small plate or baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out about 12-16 small dollops of Nutella. Place the dollops on the prepared plate and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent the Nutella from melting completely during baking and ensure a gooey center.

Step 7: Assemble the Brownies

Pour about half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Remove the frozen Nutella dollops from the freezer. Arrange the Nutella dollops evenly over the brownie batter, leaving a small space between each one. Carefully pour the remaining brownie batter over the Nutella, spreading it gently to cover the Nutella dollops as much as possible. Don’t worry if the Nutella is not completely covered; it will still create a delicious gooey center.

Step 8: Bake the Brownies

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. The edges of the brownies should be set, but the center should still be slightly soft. Be careful not to overbake, as this will result in dry brownies.

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. Cooling completely is crucial for clean cuts and to allow the brownies to set properly. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Nutella Stuffed Brownies:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your brownies. Use good-quality chocolate, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract for the best results.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
• Freeze the Nutella: Freezing the Nutella dollops is essential to prevent them from melting completely during baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking is the enemy of fudgy brownies. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached.
• Let the Brownies Cool Completely: Cooling the brownies completely allows them to set properly and makes them easier to cut.
• Add Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle chopped nuts, sea salt, or chocolate chips on top of the brownies before baking for extra flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet brownies, reduce the amount of sugar slightly.
• Double the Recipe: If you’re baking for a crowd, double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 inch pan. You may need to increase the baking time slightly.
• Store Properly: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Warm Before Serving: For an extra indulgent experience, warm the brownies slightly before serving.

Variations and Adaptations:

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment with different variations and adaptations to suit your taste preferences.

• Peanut Butter Stuffed Brownies: Substitute peanut butter for the Nutella for a peanut butter and chocolate delight.
• Caramel Stuffed Brownies: Use caramel candies or homemade caramel sauce for a sweet and gooey caramel center.
• Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies: Swirl a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract into the brownie batter before baking for a tangy and creamy twist.
• Espresso Brownies: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the brownie batter for a rich, coffee-flavored brownie.
• Mint Chocolate Brownies: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the brownie batter and top with chopped Andes mints for a refreshing mint chocolate brownie.
• Gluten-Free Brownies: Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour to make gluten-free brownies.
• Vegan Brownies: Substitute the butter with vegan butter, the eggs with applesauce or flax eggs, and use vegan chocolate chips for a vegan version.
• Add Chocolate Chunks: Fold in chocolate chunks of your favorite variety (dark, milk, white) for an even more intense chocolate experience.
• Use Different Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like macadamia nuts or pistachios for a unique flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions:

These Nutella Stuffed Brownies are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when paired with a few simple accompaniments.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the rich, fudgy brownies.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture.
• Raspberries: The tartness of raspberries cuts through the sweetness of the brownies.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra dose of chocolate.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a warm and comforting treat.

Troubleshooting:

Even with the best recipes, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are a few common problems and how to fix them.

• Brownies are too dry: You may have overbaked them. Reduce the baking time slightly next time.
• Brownies are too gooey: You may have underbaked them. Increase the baking time slightly next time.
• Nutella melted completely: Make sure the Nutella dollops are frozen solid before adding them to the brownie batter.
• Brownies are tough: You may have overmixed the batter. Be careful not to overmix next time.
• Brownies are not fudgy: Make sure you’re using enough butter and chocolate.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that this is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 350-450
• Fat: 20-25g
• Saturated Fat: 10-15g
• Cholesterol: 50-70mg
• Sodium: 100-150mg
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
• Sugar: 30-40g
• Protein: 3-5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Nutella Stuffed Brownies.

• Can I use a different size baking pan? While an 8×8 inch pan is recommended for thick brownies, you can use a 9×13 inch pan for thinner brownies. Reduce the baking time accordingly.
• Can I make these brownies ahead of time? Yes, you can make the brownies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Can I freeze these brownies? Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Can I use a different type of chocolate? Yes, you can use different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate, depending on your preference.
• Can I add nuts to the brownie batter? Yes, you can add chopped nuts to the brownie batter for extra flavor and texture.
• How do I prevent the Nutella from sticking to the parchment paper? Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or butter before adding the Nutella dollops.
• What is the best way to cut the brownies cleanly? Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut.
• Can I use a different type of nut butter? Yes, you can use other nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter instead of Nutella.
• Do I have to freeze the Nutella? Freezing the Nutella is highly recommended as it helps to prevent it from completely melting and disappearing into the brownie during baking. This ensures you have a distinct and gooey Nutella center.
• What if I don’t have parchment paper? If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease and flour the baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Conclusion:

These Nutella Stuffed Brownies are a decadent and irresistible treat that are sure to impress. With their rich, fudgy texture and gooey Nutella center, they’re the perfect indulgence for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to bake a batch of brownie bliss! Enjoy!

Now you have all the information you need to create these delicious brownies. Enjoy baking and, more importantly, enjoy eating!