Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; ½ cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Dessert Delights Co.

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars whenever I need a quick dessert fix. The way the chocolate and hazelnut flavors meld together is simply irresistible. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they're also a hit among family and friends. Whether served as an after-dinner treat or a midday snack, these bars never fail to satisfy my sweet tooth, and I can customize the toppings to suit my mood. Trust me, you won't be able to eat just one!

Created by

Arabella Scott

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:22:08.014Z

When I first tried making these Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars, I wanted a recipe that would satisfy my cravings without too much fuss. I realized that combining smooth hazelnut spread with simple pantry staples creates an unforgettable dessert. The bars turn out rich and gooey, a delight for anyone who loves chocolate.

One of my favorite tricks is to sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top before baking. It adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy filling perfectly. Plus, these bars are easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in!

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty hazelnuts
Decadent yet simple to prepare in just minutes
Perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying solo

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and sugar creates a balanced foundation for these bars, giving them a delightful chewy texture. The cocoa adds a rich chocolate flavor that is intensified by the chocolate hazelnut spread. When selecting cocoa powder, opt for high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa to achieve a deeper flavor and a darker color in your bars.

Butter plays a crucial role in keeping these bars moist and tender. Since it's melted, it blends seamlessly into the batter, preventing any dry patches. For those seeking a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute coconut oil in equal measure; however, be aware this may impart a subtle coconut flavor that can add a unique twist to the bars.

Baking Tips and Techniques

When baking, timing is essential. Keep a close eye on your bars as they cook; they should be set but still soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs instead of being completely clean, which indicates they can dry out if overbaked. If you find the edges browning too quickly, consider rotating the pan halfway through baking for even results.

Letting the bars cool slightly in the pan before slicing is vital for maintaining structure. If they are too warm, they might crumble when cut. I usually let them cool for about 10-15 minutes before lifting them out. Using a sharp knife works best for clean edges—wet the knife with hot water for an even smoother cut if needed.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
½ cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start making these delicious bars!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix.

Incorporate Hazelnut Spread

Gently fold in the chocolate hazelnut spread until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Pour and Sprinkle

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and level it out. If desired, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top.

Bake the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and enjoy!

These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars store well in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy the rich flavors.

If you want to prepare these bars ahead of time, you can make the batter a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This can be especially handy during busy weeks when you crave a sweet treat without much fuss.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further with toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance. Alternatively, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. The warmth of the bars complements the cold ice cream beautifully.

For an added flavor boost, drizzle melted dark chocolate or caramel sauce over the bars right before serving. You can also enhance the nutty flavors by sprinkling additional chopped hazelnuts on top, either raw or toasted, for extra crunch and visual appeal. These small details can make your dessert even more enticing to share with friends and family!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes! You can substitute with almond butter or peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour without compromising too much on texture.

→ What can I add to the bars for extra flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

→ Can I freeze the bars?

Absolutely! They freeze well. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.