Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars
Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars, a delightful treat that combines the flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts in a perfectly balanced dessert.
These Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars are perfect for any occasion. The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts creates a rich flavor that is simply irresistible.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh hazelnuts
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Perfect Combination of Flavors
Chocolate and hazelnuts are a match made in dessert heaven. The deep, rich flavor of chocolate perfectly complements the nutty, slightly sweet taste of hazelnuts, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. When baked together in these Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars, the result is a deliciously decadent treat that is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
These bars are not just about flavor; they also boast a delightful texture. The creamy filling, made with smooth hazelnut spread, contrasts beautifully with the crumbly cocoa base. As you sink your teeth into these bars, you'll experience the melt-in-your-mouth sensation that makes them irresistible. It's a combination that leaves you craving more!
Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether it's a birthday celebration, a holiday gathering, or simply a cozy night in, Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars are the perfect dessert to share. Their elegant appearance and rich flavors make them a standout choice for special occasions, while their ease of preparation ensures you won't be spending all day in the kitchen. Just whip up a batch, and watch them disappear!
These bars can also be a delightful surprise for guests. Serve them alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon treat or package them as gifts for friends and family. They are versatile enough to suit any event, making them a staple recipe that you'll want to keep on hand.
Tips for Perfect Bars
To ensure your Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars turn out perfectly, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and precise measurements can make all the difference in texture and flavor. Additionally, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares; this will help them hold their shape and make for cleaner cuts.
Experimenting with toppings can also elevate your bars. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a delightful contrast to the sweetness, or drizzle some melted chocolate over the bars before serving. These simple tweaks can enhance the flavor profile and presentation, making your dessert even more inviting.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious bars:
For the Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars:
Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, combine the hazelnut spread, chopped hazelnuts, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and spread evenly over the prepared base.
Add the Topping
Sprinkle the chocolate chips and additional chopped hazelnuts over the filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the edges are firm.
Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars!
Storage and Shelf Life
Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. However, if you want to extend their freshness, consider refrigerating them. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving, as this will restore their creamy texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with your favorite ice cream or whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream adds an extra layer of creaminess that complements the rich flavors of the bars beautifully.
For a more festive presentation, consider topping each bar with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra crunch that makes each bite even more satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts with almonds or walnuts for a different flavor.
→ How should I store the leftovers?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars, a delightful treat that combines the flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts in a perfectly balanced dessert.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Sweet Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.
In another bowl, combine the hazelnut spread, chopped hazelnuts, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and spread evenly over the prepared base.
Sprinkle the chocolate chips and additional chopped hazelnuts over the filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the edges are firm.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g