Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars
Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of these Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars, perfect for any chocolate lover.
These Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars are inspired by the classic flavor combination of chocolate and hazelnuts. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, they bring a touch of elegance to any occasion.
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
- Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
A Perfect Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars are the ultimate dessert to impress your guests at any celebration. Their delightful combination of rich chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts makes them the perfect centerpiece for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in. Whether you're hosting a birthday party or simply indulging on a lazy weekend, these bars are sure to please any crowd.
What sets these bars apart is their layers of flavor and texture. The fudgy base provides a solid foundation, while the creamy hazelnut filling offers a deliciously smooth contrast. Topped off with a glossy layer of melted dark chocolate, every bite is a heavenly experience that transports you to dessert paradise.
Easy to Make, Hard to Resist
One of the best things about Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars is how simple they are to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The most time-consuming part is waiting for them to chill, but trust us, the wait is worth it. You'll find that the straightforward steps allow you to focus on the fun part—enjoying the delicious results!
No baking skills are required here! Even novice bakers will find success with this recipe. The layers come together effortlessly, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet. Plus, the bars can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.
Customize Your Dream Bars
While the classic recipe is undeniably delicious, feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars. Experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to give your bars a unique twist. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra burst of flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness.
For a fun variation, consider adding a layer of fruit preserves or fresh berries in between the hazelnut filling and chocolate topping. This will introduce a refreshing tartness that complements the richness of the chocolate and hazelnuts. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
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
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 1 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start.
Instructions
Prepare the Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.
Bake the Base
Bake the base in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove and let cool for a few minutes.
Make the Filling
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the hazelnut spread and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the chopped hazelnuts and mix well.
Assemble the Bars
Pour the hazelnut filling over the cooled base and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.
Prepare the Topping
In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Pour the chocolate topping over the chilled bars and spread evenly.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the bars for an additional 15 minutes to set the chocolate. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars!
Storing Your Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars
To keep your Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they'll last that long! If you want to keep them for even longer, consider freezing them. Just slice the bars and wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy a treat.
When storing, be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures that your bars maintain their beautiful appearance and texture. Plus, it makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you have a chocolate craving!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars even further, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy accompaniments provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the bars. You can also drizzle some extra hazelnut spread on top for an indulgent finishing touch.
For a more festive presentation, garnish the bars with additional chopped hazelnuts or a sprinkle of cocoa powder before serving. This adds a nice visual appeal and invites your guests to dig in. Whether you're serving them at a gathering or enjoying them solo, these bars are sure to be a hit!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
→ How should I store the bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
→ What can I serve with these bars?
These bars pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of these Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Bars, perfect for any chocolate lover.
Created by: Mario
Recipe Type: Classic Bakery Favorites
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
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 1 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, melted butter, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking pan.
Bake the base in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove and let cool for a few minutes.
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the hazelnut spread and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the chopped hazelnuts and mix well.
Pour the hazelnut filling over the cooled base and spread it evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.
In a small saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips and butter together over low heat, stirring until smooth. Pour the chocolate topping over the chilled bars and spread evenly.
Refrigerate the bars for an additional 15 minutes to set the chocolate. Cut into squares and serve chilled.
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