What makes the perfect brownie even better? Adding Nutella of course. This easy homemade recipe uses rich chocolate and a decadent Nutella spread to create a family favorite dessert. Save this idea for your next weeknight treat.

brownies stacked on top of each other with the words delicious nutella brownies recipe

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a stack of rich, fudgy brownies, each layer separated by a velvety Nutella filling, creating a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. This recipe for Nutella brownies stacked on top of each other is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor, perfect for anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss. By combining everyday ingredients in a creative way, you’ll achieve a dessert that’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few key ingredients and some basic kitchen skills.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between the deep, chocolatey flavor of the brownies and the creamy, nutty taste of Nutella, all made possible with ingredients you can find in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive appearance, this dessert is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The brownies are made from a simple mixture of flour, sugar, eggs, and chocolate, while the Nutella filling requires no cooking at all.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The real magic happens when you stack the brownies on top of each other with layers of Nutella in between. This simple act transforms a basic brownie into a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, salt, and of course, Nutella for the filling. For the brownies, you’ll also need semi-sweet chocolate chips. Practical substitutions can be made for some ingredients, such as using almond flour for a gluten-free version or substituting the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that such substitutions might slightly alter the texture and taste of the final product.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare an 8-inch square baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly, then pour it into the egg mixture and whisk until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Step 3: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
4. Step 4: Once the brownies are cool, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your desired layer size. Spread a layer of Nutella on top of each brownie piece, then stack them on top of each other to create your tower. You can secure the layers with toothpicks if necessary. Finally, dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.

Handy Tips

• For a cleaner cut, refrigerate the brownies for about 30 minutes before cutting them. This will help the knife glide through more smoothly and reduce crumbling.
• When spreading the Nutella, do so gently to avoid breaking the brownie layers. If you find the Nutella too stiff, you can warm it slightly by placing the jar in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.
• Avoid overbaking the brownies, as this can make them too dry and crumbly. A slightly underbaked texture is better, as it will retain moisture and make the brownies easier to stack.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the brownies is 350°F (180°C), and the baking time should be around 25-30 minutes. It’s crucial to keep an eye on them after the 20-minute mark, as oven temperatures can vary. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly brownies that are difficult to stack.

Crunch Factor

The texture of these brownies should be fudgy and moist, with a slight crunch from the edges if desired. To achieve the perfect texture, avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake the brownies. The Nutella filling adds a creamy contrast to the dense, chocolatey brownies, creating a delightful texture combination in each bite.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra glossy top on your brownies, melt a tablespoon of chocolate chips with a teaspoon of shortening (like Crisco) and brush it over the top of the brownies after they’ve cooled.
• To ensure your brownies are perfectly flat and even, rotate the baking pan halfway through the baking time.
• Consider using high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. While it might be more expensive, it will significantly enhance the taste of your brownies.

Storage Tips

• These brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• For longer storage, you can refrigerate the brownies for up to 5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
• Freezing is also an option. Wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen brownies can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or refrigerate overnight before serving.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these delicious Nutella brownies, there are several packaging ideas you can explore. One of the most appealing ways is to stack the brownies in a decorative jar or container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper for easy removal. You can then tie a ribbon around the jar and add a gift tag. Another option is to individually wrap each brownie in plastic wrap or wax paper and place them in a gift box or bag. Adding a personal touch, like a handwritten note or a sprinkle of edible gold dust on top, can make the gift even more special.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Consider adding a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of instant coffee powder to the brownie batter for a deeper flavor profile.
• Creative toppings: Instead of just Nutella, you can use other spreads like peanut butter or caramel sauce between the layers. Adding chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even candy pieces on top can add texture and visual appeal.
• Ingredient swaps: For a lighter version, you can substitute some of the flour with oats or use applesauce to reduce the amount of oil needed. However, be cautious with substitutions, as they can affect the final texture and taste of the brownies.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your brownies turn out too dry, it might be due to overbaking. Next time, try reducing the baking time. If they’re too wet, they might not have been baked long enough or the batter was overmixed.
• Ingredient replacements: When substituting ingredients, always consider how the replacement might affect the final product. For example, using milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet will result in a sweeter brownie.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your brownies during the baking time. They’re done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently, as this can cause the brownies to sink.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze them before stacking with Nutella. Simply thaw at room temperature or refrigerate overnight before assembling.
• Is it gluten-free? The basic recipe includes all-purpose flour, making it not gluten-free. However, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour mix to make it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more brownies. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly. It’s also a good idea to bake the batches separately to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Making these delicious Nutella brownies stacked on top of each other is a fun and rewarding baking project that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, chocolatey flavor and the creamy contrast of Nutella, this dessert is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to practice your skills and enjoy a delicious treat at the end. So go ahead, get baking, and share your creations with friends and family to spread the joy of homemade desserts.