Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars! They're a joyous treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnuts. Every time I bake these bars, the aroma fills my kitchen, and the anticipation grows. With a straightforward recipe and a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The crunchiness of the nuts combined with the silky chocolate spread creates a delightful texture that everyone enjoys. Trust me, once you make these, they will become a household favorite!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:31:14.941Z

Making these Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars has always been a source of joy for me. I remember the first time I experimented with adding finely chopped hazelnuts to the recipe; it elevated the experience to a whole new level! The combination of nutty and sweet is simply irresistible.

One crucial aspect I've learned is to let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps them hold their shape better and allows the flavors to meld. Plus, I like to sprinkle a little sea salt on top just before serving to enhance the sweetness. Trust me, it's a game-changer!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor paired with nutty hazelnuts
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Perfect texture - chewy and satisfying
Great for sharing at parties or as a delightful snack

      

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in your Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars is essential. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the desired chewy consistency. The goal is to mix until just combined, ensuring that the batter remains slightly thick and dense, which helps create that perfect chewy but soft texture after baking.

Another key factor is the use of high-quality chocolate hazelnut spread. This ingredient not only adds a rich chocolate flavor but also contributes to the moisture of the bars. If you find your spread is too thick, microwaving it for a few seconds can help it blend more easily into the batter, allowing for a smoother mixture without compromising the texture.

Nutty Variations

While hazelnuts are a delightful addition to these bars, consider experimenting with other nuts or add-ins based on your preferences. Walnuts or almonds can provide a similar crunch, while also bringing unique flavors to the mix. If you want to maintain the hazelnut essence but add depth, you can incorporate a tablespoon of hazelnut liqueur into the batter, enhancing the overall nutty profile effortlessly.

For a chocolate burst, try adding chocolate chips along with the hazelnuts. This variation increases the chocolate flavor and richness, making each bite more decadent. If you're catering to specific dietary needs, substitute parts of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version, adjusting the measurements slightly to maintain consistency.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars can be made ahead of time, perfect for when you're planning a gathering or want a tasty snack ready to grab. Allow the bars to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for up to 5 days, or you can refrigerate them to extend their freshness for up to a week without losing texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Cut them into squares after baking and cooling, and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature—this way, you can have this decadent treat any time you crave it!

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure even mixing.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the chocolate hazelnut spread until smooth.

Combine and Pour

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the chopped hazelnuts. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool in the pan.

Slice and Enjoy

Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Serve the bars at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight: Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder is a crucial ingredient in Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars, providing rich chocolate flavor and a deep color. When selecting cocoa powder, consider using Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother and more muted flavor profile compared to natural cocoa powder, which imparts a more intense, slightly acidic taste. This can significantly affect the overall flavor balance of your bars.

Additionally, check the freshness of your cocoa powder; it can lose its potency over time. A good rule of thumb is to replace it every year or so to ensure your bars have that deep, chocolaty richness that makes them irresistible. For a fun twist, try adding a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor even further.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bars come out too crumbly, it may be due to insufficient moisture in the mix. Check the amount of butter used, and ensure it’s fully melted. Underbaking can also lead to a drier texture; if your toothpick doesn’t come out clean but the edges are browning, it might be time to cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent overbaking the edges while allowing the middle to set.

Conversely, if the texture is too soft and the bars seem undercooked, ensure that you are allowing adequate cooling time after baking. Letting the bars cool completely in the pan helps them firm up. If you find that cooling doesn’t firm them enough, consider chilling them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Serving Suggestions

These bars can be served as is, but for an extra special treat, consider drizzling them with melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt right before serving. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert. Cut them into smaller squares for bite-sized snacks that are perfect for parties.

To elevate your serving presentation, plate the bars alongside fresh berries or a quick compote. The acidity of the fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bars, enhancing the overall tasting experience. If you're serving at a gathering, stack them on a tiered cake stand for an appealing display that invites guests to indulge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute with almond flour, but the texture may vary.

→ How should I store the leftovers?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

→ Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter along with a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread.