If you are a chocolate lover, you are going to absolutely adore this Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings Recipe. Imagine rich, fudgy brownies packed with the deep chocolate goodness of cocoa and Nutella, each bite melting beautifully on your tongue. But the real showstopper? Those adorable heart-shaped fillings bursting with creamy Nutella that bring an extra layer of indulgence and a touch of whimsy. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to brighten your afternoon, these brownies blend simplicity and charm in one irresistible treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with just a handful of ingredients that perfectly balance one another to create that luscious taste and perfect texture. Each component plays a key role, from Nutella lending its signature hazelnut sweetness to the cocoa powder enriching the chocolate flavor and the eggs ensuring a soft, fudgy bite.
- 1½ cups Nutella: The star ingredient that brings creamy hazelnut and chocolate flavor.
- ½ cup cocoa powder (sifted): Adds deep chocolate richness and enhances the color of the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the brownies a slight lift without losing that fudgy texture.
- 3 large eggs: They help bind the batter and create that irresistibly soft interior.
- ¼ cup Nutella (extra): For filling the heart-shaped cutouts, adding a gooey surprise inside each brownie.
How to Make Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings Recipe
Step 1: Set oven and prep pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8 by 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make sure your brownies lift out easily after baking. This sets the stage for perfectly baked brownies that won’t stick or crumble when slicing.
Step 2: Make the batter
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 1½ cups of Nutella, sifted cocoa powder, baking powder, and the eggs. Use an electric hand mixer to blend the ingredients until the batter is smooth and glossy. This ensures every bite is evenly rich and fudgy.
Step 3: Bake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until the edges begin to pull away from the sides and the center is no longer wobbly. The smell at this stage is absolutely heavenly!
Step 4: Cool and slice
Allow the brownies to cool completely on a rack for at least 30 minutes. Gently lift the brownies out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice your batch into approximately 25 squares; if you plan on adding the heart-shaped fillings, slicing into 16 larger pieces works better for the cutting step.
Step 5: Create the heart-shaped fillings
Take a tiny heart-shaped cookie cutter, about ¾-inch wide. Press it halfway down into each brownie square—do not cut all the way through! Carefully pull it out to create a hollow heart shape on the surface while saving the little hearts for an extra treat.
Step 6: Fill the hearts
Fill a small plastic zip-lock bag with the reserved ¼ cup of Nutella. Cut a tiny hole in one corner, then gently pipe Nutella into each hollow heart. Use a toothpick or the tip of a knife to spread the filling evenly if needed. Your Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings Recipe is now both beautiful and irresistible!
How to Serve Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings Recipe
Garnishes
A little powdered sugar dusted over the brownies makes a lovely contrast against the rich chocolate. For a more festive touch, try sprinkling chopped toasted hazelnuts on top for an extra crunch that complements the Nutella flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like raspberries or sliced strawberries add a pop of color and a bright, tart balance to the sweet, fudgy brownies.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your brownies neatly on a decorative platter with the heart shapes facing up for a charming presentation. Wrap individual brownies in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon to create adorable edible gifts for friends or family events.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The Nutella fillings inside keep them moist and rich, so no need to worry about them drying out quickly.
Freezing
You can freeze these brownies for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy warm brownies again, heat them in the microwave in 15-second bursts until just warm. This will soften the Nutella filling and bring back that freshly baked feel without drying the brownies out.
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate spread instead of Nutella?
While Nutella’s unique hazelnut flavor makes these brownies special, you can substitute with another chocolate spread if needed, but it may alter the final taste slightly.
How do I avoid cutting all the way through with the heart cookie cutter?
Press the cutter gently only halfway into the brownie. If the brownies are too warm or soft, the cutter might go deeper, so always work with cooled brownies for best results.
Is it necessary to sift the cocoa powder?
Sifting helps remove lumps and blends the cocoa powder better with other ingredients, resulting in a smooth, consistent batter.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t call for flour, which makes it a great option for those avoiding gluten.
How long do these Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings last?
Stored properly at room temperature, they stay fresh for about 3 days. To extend their shelf life, freezing is your best option.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about making Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings Recipe that feels both fun and rewarding. From the simple yet rich ingredients to the whimsical heart shapes filled with Nutella, this treat is sure to become a beloved favorite. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious results of this charming, chocolaty creation with your loved ones!
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Nutella Brownies with Heart-Shaped Fillings Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 to 25 brownies
Description
Delight in these rich and fudgy Nutella Brownies, combining the creamy hazelnut spread with cocoa and a rich chocolate base. Perfectly baked to achieve soft, chewy centers and crisp edges, these brownies are topped with adorable Nutella-filled heart cutouts, making them a sweet treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1½ cups Nutella
- ½ cup sifted cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 large eggs
Topping
- ¼ cup Nutella (for filling hearts)
Instructions
- Set oven and prep pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups Nutella, sifted cocoa powder, baking powder, and the eggs. Using an electric hand mixer, blend all ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the edges start to pull away from the sides and the center is no longer wiggly when gently shaken.
- Cool and slice: Remove the pan and let the brownies cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Once cooled, carefully lift the brownies out using the parchment paper, place on a cutting board, and slice into approximately 25 squares (or 16 larger squares if making heart cutouts).
- Cut out hearts: Using a small heart-shaped cookie cutter (about ¾-inch wide), gently press halfway down each brownie square to create a heart-shaped indentation without cutting all the way through. Carefully lift the cutter to remove the small brownie heart piece, which can be saved as a decorative treat.
- Fill hearts with Nutella: Place ¼ cup Nutella into a small zip-lock bag and snip a tiny corner off the bottom. Squeeze a small amount of Nutella into each hollowed-out heart. Use a toothpick or the tip of a knife to evenly spread and fill the hearts if needed. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure brownies are cooled before cutting hearts to avoid crumbling.
- You can substitute Nutella with other chocolate hazelnut spreads if desired.
- Use fresh eggs for best texture.
- The brownies are best consumed within 3-4 days stored in an airtight container.
- For a gluten-free version, confirm that baking powder and cocoa powder are gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
