Hazelnut Brownies Recipe

Hazelnuts: Chopped and added to the batter for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

All-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the brownies.

Cocoa powder: Adds the rich, chocolatey flavor to the brownies.

Sugar: Sweetens the brownies and balances the bitterness of the cocoa.

Butter: Melted and mixed into the batter for moisture and richness.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the brownies.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.

To enhance the flavor of the hazelnuts, consider toasting them before adding them to the batter. Spread the chopped hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned. This will bring out their natural oils and add a deeper, richer flavor to your brownies. Be sure to let them cool before folding them into the batter.

• chopped hazelnuts - Substitute with chopped almonds: Almonds provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor.

• chopped hazelnuts - Substitute with chopped walnuts: Walnuts offer a rich, buttery taste that complements brownies well.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free blend ensures the recipe is suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

• cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder provides a similar color and a slightly sweeter taste.

• cocoa powder - Substitute with melted dark chocolate: Melted dark chocolate adds richness and depth of flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture to the brownies.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar texture and a subtle coconut flavor.

• melted butter - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil keeps the brownies moist and has a neutral flavor.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs are a vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce adds moisture and a hint of sweetness, making it a good egg substitute.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt enhances the flavors with a slightly different mineral profile.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a coarser texture and a cleaner taste.

• Allow the hazelnut brownies to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the brownies soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the brownies in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer to refrigerate, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to a week.

• To freeze, wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This prevents freezer burn and preserves the brownies' texture and flavor.

• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness. Hazelnut brownies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the brownies at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. For a warm treat, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

• For an extra touch, serve the hazelnut brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the hazelnut brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the brownies loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a piece of hazelnut brownie on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 10 seconds if needed.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before indulging.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over low heat.
  2. Place the hazelnut brownies in the skillet.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to create a mini-oven effect.
  4. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, checking frequently to avoid burning.
  5. Remove from the skillet and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the hazelnut brownies on a toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover them with aluminum foil to keep them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through.
  5. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the hazelnut brownies in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't overcook.
  4. Let them cool for a minute before savoring the warm, gooey goodness.

• Oven: Used to bake the brownies at the specified temperature.

• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the wet ingredients and another for the dry ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.

• Spatula: Helps in folding the chopped hazelnuts into the batter.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients like flour, sugar, and cocoa powder.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like vanilla extract and salt.

• Baking pan: The container where the brownie batter is poured and baked.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the brownies are done by inserting it into the center.

• Cooling rack: Allows the brownies to cool evenly after baking.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled brownies into squares.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the baking process.

Use parchment paper: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and minimal cleanup.

Melt butter in microwave: Quickly melt the butter in the microwave instead of using the stovetop.

Combine dry ingredients ahead: Mix the flour, cocoa powder, and salt together ahead of time to save minutes during preparation.

Chop hazelnuts in bulk: Chop extra hazelnuts and store them for future use to save time in subsequent recipes.