Indulge in a sweet treat that’s simple and satisfying: Chocolate Hazelnut Brownie Bites! In this recipe, you’ll create rich, fudgy bites loaded with creamy chocolate hazelnut spread and crunchy hazelnuts. Perfect for any occasion or just a quick snack, these bites are easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that make this a must-try treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts creates a rich, indulgent flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly and easily, perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or gatherings.
- Perfect Portion Size: These brownie bites are a great portion size, making it easy to enjoy without overindulging.
- Fun Presentation: They look adorable in cupcake liners and are perfect for parties, adding a touch of elegance to any dessert table.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Brownie Bites
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread
- ½ cup chopped hazelnuts (toasted)
- ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
For these brownie bites, each ingredient plays a key role. The flour gives structure, while cocoa powder adds that rich chocolate flavor. Baking powder helps them rise, making each bite light and fluffy. Salt enhances all the flavors.
Melted butter adds moisture, giving a soft texture. Granulated sugar balances the dark cocoa with sweetness. Eggs bind everything together and add richness. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the taste.
The star of the show is the chocolate hazelnut spread. It gives a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with chocolate. Chopped hazelnuts add crunch and toasted flavor. Mini chocolate chips bring extra gooeyness to each bite, making them truly irresistible.
When you gather these ingredients, you set the stage for a treat that combines texture and flavor. Each element works together, creating a delicious experience that you and your guests will surely love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, line a mini muffin pan with paper liners. If you don't have liners, spray the pan with non-stick cooking spray. This will help the brownie bites come out easily.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. You'll need 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Make sure to mix these well. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your wet ingredients. Pour in ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Mix this well until it's smooth and slightly cooled. Then, add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Beat well after each egg. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a lovely flavor.
Create the Batter
Now, it's time to combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix. Stir just until combined; don't overmix. This keeps the brownie bites soft. Next, gently fold in ½ cup of chocolate hazelnut spread, ½ cup of chopped toasted hazelnuts, and ¼ cup of mini chocolate chips. Make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Fill Muffin Cavities
Using a spoon or a small cookie scoop, fill each muffin cavity about ¾ full with the batter. This allows room for the brownie bites to rise while baking. Try to be even to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Bake and Cool
Bake your brownie bites for 12-15 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to keep them from getting soggy. Enjoy your delicious treats!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture in your brownie bites, do a few simple things. First, do not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mix just until it comes together. This helps keep the bites soft and chewy. Second, add mini chocolate chips for extra gooeyness. They melt and create pockets of rich chocolate. Lastly, bake them just right. Look for a few moist crumbs on your toothpick, not wet batter.
Helpful Baking Tools
Having the right tools makes baking easier. Here are some tools I recommend:
- Mini muffin pan for perfect bite-sized treats
- Paper liners to keep the bites from sticking
- Mixing bowls in various sizes for wet and dry ingredients
- Whisk for blending dry items smoothly
- Rubber spatula for folding in chocolate hazelnut spread and nuts
These tools will help you create the best brownie bites.
Presentation Ideas for Serving
Make your brownie bites look as great as they taste. Here are some fun ways to present them:
- Use a decorative cupcake box for a sweet gift.
- Place them on a platter dusted with powdered sugar for a fancy touch.
- Drizzle extra chocolate hazelnut spread on top for a rich finish.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch and style.
These ideas will impress your guests and make every bite even more enjoyable.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients.
- Toast Hazelnuts for Extra Flavor: Lightly toasting your chopped hazelnuts before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your brownie bites.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownie bites instead of the desired fudgy texture.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so start checking your brownie bites a minute or two before the suggested baking time. Remove them when a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Variations
Add-ins and Substitutions
You can make these brownie bites even better with some fun add-ins. Try using different nuts, like walnuts or pecans. You can also add dried fruit, like cherries or cranberries, for a fruity twist. If you want more flavor, mix in a pinch of espresso powder. This will enhance the chocolate taste. Don't have chocolate hazelnut spread? You can swap it for peanut butter or almond butter. Each option gives a new taste that you will love.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free treat, it’s easy to adapt this recipe. Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor. Just make sure to check if the other ingredients, like the baking powder, are gluten-free. Your brownie bites will be just as tasty and perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.
Vegan Adaptations
Want to make these brownie bites vegan? You can! Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. To make one flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about five minutes. For the butter, try using coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also swap the chocolate hazelnut spread for a vegan version. These changes keep the recipe delicious while making it plant-based.
Storage Info
How to Store Brownie Bites
To keep your chocolate hazelnut brownie bites fresh, place them in an airtight container. This method helps prevent them from drying out. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just note that chilling may change their texture slightly.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to save some brownie bites for later, freezing is a great choice. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature.
Best Way to Reheat
To reheat brownie bites, the oven works best. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownie bites on a baking sheet and warm them for about five minutes. If you prefer a microwave, heat them for about 10-15 seconds. This method makes them warm and gooey again, just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
How do I know when my brownie bites are done?
You can tell your brownie bites are ready by using a toothpick. Insert it into the center of one bite. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, they need more time. Bake them for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can swap hazelnuts for other nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans work well too. Just make sure to chop them up. Toasting the nuts adds a warm flavor, but it’s not necessary. Choose whichever nut you enjoy most!
Where can I buy pre-made chocolate hazelnut brownie bites?
You can find pre-made brownie bites in many grocery stores. Check the bakery section or the dessert aisle. Some specialty stores or cafes might offer them too. If you want a quick treat, look for brands that focus on gourmet snacks.
Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day before. Just store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, fill the muffin pan and bake. You can also bake them ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container on the counter for up to three days. Enjoy them fresh or reheat them slightly!
You now have all the tools to make delicious chocolate hazelnut brownie bites. We covered the needed ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned helpful tips for the best texture and presentation. Remember, you can adapt the recipe to fit your needs, whether gluten-free or vegan. Store your treats properly to keep them fresh. I hope you enjoy baking these bites as much as I do. These rich little treats are sure to please everyone!
