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 unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’m excited to share my Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars recipe! These bars are a dreamy combination of creamy, nutty hazelnut spread and rich chocolate, all encased in a soft, chewy base. I created this treat for a gathering and was blown away by how quickly they disappeared. Perfect for snacking or dessert, they offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. Plus, they are easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:07:08.139Z

In my quest to create the ultimate sweet treat, I stumbled upon the marvelous combo of chocolate and hazelnut. I decided to put these flavors into a bar format that would be easy to transport and serve. Testing different ratios of ingredients was key, and I found that a bit of brown sugar added a delightful caramel-like taste that perfectly complements the chocolate.

What truly makes these bars special is the hidden layer of chocolate hazelnut spread within. It’s like discovering a treasure when you take a bite! I learned that allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing ensures cleaner edges and a more appealing presentation.

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        Decadent chocolate flavor with a nutty twist
Perfectly chewy texture that satisfies every bite
Easy to make and even easier to share with friends

      

Understanding Ingredient Roles

The combination of all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder forms the base of these bars, delivering a rich chocolate flavor while maintaining a chewy texture. Cocoa powder adds depth, enriching the overall taste without making the bars overly sweet. It’s essential to use high-quality cocoa for the best results, as this will enhance the chocolate notes and provide a nice contrast with the creamy hazelnut filling.

Butter plays a pivotal role in the texture of these bars, contributing to their richness and helping to keep them moist. Make sure your butter is at room temperature, as this will allow it to cream better with the sugars, creating a light and airy mixture. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute with a mild vegetable oil, but the resulting bars won't be as rich in flavor.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bars

When spreading the chocolate hazelnut filling, aim for an even layer to ensure every bite is infused with that luscious flavor. If the hazelnut spread is too thick to spread easily, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This creates a smoother, more pourable consistency, allowing it to seep into the batter for better flavor distribution.

To achieve the ideal chewy texture, avoid over-baking the bars. Even if the edges look done, the center should remain slightly soft; it will continue to cook as it cools in the pan. A toothpick test is your best friend here—when it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you know they're perfectly baked.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother and more enjoyable!

For the Bars

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs

For the Filling

1/2 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a perfect batch of Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking dish (9x9 inches) with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and eggs, mixing well.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add the Filling

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Spoon the chocolate hazelnut spread over the batter; sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts if using. Spread the remaining batter on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Remove from the pan, cool completely on a wire rack, then cut into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars with family and friends!

Pro Tips

Letting the bars cool completely before slicing helps achieve clean edges. Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite nuts or a layer of chocolate chips.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. However, to maintain their ideal texture, I recommend placing parchment paper between layers if stacking them. You can also freeze these bars for longer storage; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

For a quick treat, consider making a double batch and freezing half. This way, you’ll always have a delicious dessert on hand for unexpected guests or cravings. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked taste.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize these bars by adding a swirl of peanut butter or almond butter with the hazelnut spread to create your unique flavor profile. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, which can be toasted lightly before mixing in for added crunch and depth.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that texture may vary slightly, so adding an extra egg can help achieve that chewy consistency you want in these bars.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different nut butter instead of chocolate hazelnut spread?

Absolutely! Almond or peanut butter can also work well for a different flavor.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the bars?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to three months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce for an egg-free version.