There’s something irresistibly decadent about the idea of indulging in a warm brownie, and when you add the rich, nutty flavor of tahini alongside the famous creaminess of Nutella, it turns into an unforgettable dessert experience. The first time I experimented with combining these two ingredients, I was shocked by how seamlessly they complemented each other, creating a molten chocolate hazelnut tahini brownie that was truly next level.
Imagine slicing into a pan of warm, gooey brownies, only to reveal a luscious, hazelnut-infused treasure hidden inside. These treats are not just desserts; they’re a conversation starter, an excuse to gather friends around the table, or the perfect solution for a last-minute craving. With just a handful of ingredients—most of which you probably have on hand—you can create an impressive dessert that will have everyone raving about your baking skills. Get ready to savor each chocolatey bite, and let’s dive into making these delightful brownies together!
Why are Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies a must-try?
Decadent Experience: Each bite is an explosion of rich chocolate complemented by the subtle nuttiness of tahini, creating a flavor profile that delights the senses.
Effortless Prep: This recipe simplifies baking without sacrificing taste, making it perfect for both novice and expert bakers.
Versatility: Great for gatherings, they adapt well with optional toppings like hazelnuts or sesame seeds, catering to diverse palates.
Mouthwatering Aroma: The heavenly scent of brownies wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first slice.
Quick to Make: In just around 30 minutes of baking time, you can serve a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
Add a delightful twist to your baking repertoire and impress your friends with these delectable brownies!
Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownie Ingredients
For the Batter
• Nutella – 1 1/2 cups (about 13 oz) brings a creamy hazelnut richness that makes these brownies truly indulgent.
• All-Purpose Flour – 2/3 cup (86g), spooned and leveled, provides the structure needed for the perfect brownie texture.
• Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder – 1/2 cup (50g) adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor that elevates the sweetness of Nutella.
• Salt – 1/2 tsp, essential for balancing flavors and enhancing the overall taste of the brownies.
• Large Eggs – 2, plus an additional egg yolk to create an ultra-rich and fudgy consistency.
• Light Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup (100g), packed, for moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (125g) to provide sweetness and support that crackly top.
• Unsalted Tahini – 1/2 cup (120g) introduces a unique nuttiness while keeping the brownies moist; a great addition to the molten experience.
• Vanilla Extract – 2 tsp, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Dark Chocolate – 4 oz, chopped and divided, for a delightful burst of chocolate pockets throughout the brownies.
Optional Toppings
• Unsalted Hazelnuts – 1/4 cup, roughly chopped, for a crunchy texture and additional nutty flavor.
• Toasted Sesame Seeds – 1 tbsp, offering a subtle crunch and a unique, sophisticated garnish.
Gather these ingredients to create the most indulgent Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies that will wow your taste buds!
How to Make Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies
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Prepare the Pan: Line a square 8×8 baking dish with wax paper, ensuring it’s well-fitted. This will help you easily lift your brownies out later.
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Melt the Nutella: Measure out the Nutella into a heatproof bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. This makes it easier to spread in the baking dish later.
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Spread the Nutella: Pour the warm Nutella into the wax paper-lined dish, spreading it into an even layer. Freeze for about 30 minutes or until it’s firm enough to handle.
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Lift and Freeze Again: Once the Nutella is firm, carefully lift it out of the dish (still on the wax paper) and transfer it to a plate or tray. Place it back in the freezer while you prepare the brownie batter.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the paper to extend over the edges for easy removal.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. This mixture forms the base of your rich brownie batter.
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Whisk Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs and sugars until pale and creamy, about 2 minutes. This creates the fluffy texture you want.
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Incorporate Tahini and Vanilla: Add in the tahini and vanilla, mixing them into the egg-sugar mixture until well combined. Use a rubber spatula to fold in the dry ingredients gently, careful not to overmix. Then fold in half of the chopped dark chocolate.
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Layer the Batter: Scoop half of the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Remove the frozen Nutella from the wax paper and place it on top. Spread the remaining brownie batter over the Nutella.
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Add Toppings: Sprinkle the rest of the chocolate chunks on top, along with the chopped hazelnuts and sesame seeds, if using. This adds texture and flavor contrast.
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Bake: Pop the brownies into the oven and bake for 28-32 minutes. You’re looking for a crackly, glossy top while ensuring the center is set enough not to wobble when jiggled.
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Cool and Slice: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. Let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour until they’re firm and easy to cut. Lift out, slice, and enjoy!
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted Nutella for a decadent finish!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies?
Indulging in a warm brownie is a delight, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast to the warm, gooey brownies, bringing balance and luscious texture. -
Fresh Berries:
Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a tart brightness that cuts through the richness of the brownies, creating a delightful flavor combination. -
Espresso or Coffee:
A rich espresso perfectly complements the chocolatey notes of the brownies, enhancing the dessert’s depth while providing a delightful bitterness. -
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle:
For true chocoholics, an extra drizzle of chocolate sauce on top adds even more decadence, making each bite irresistibly rich. -
Caramel Sauce:
The smooth, sweet notes of a homemade or store-bought caramel drizzle meld beautifully with the nutty tahini, creating a heavenly treat. -
Nutty Granola:
A sprinkle of nutty granola adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the fudgy brownies, enhancing the overall dessert experience. -
Coconut Whipped Cream:
Light and airy, coconut whipped cream adds a tropical twist that perfectly balances the earthy flavors of tahini and hazelnuts. -
Mint Leaves:
Garnishing with fresh mint leaves not only brightens up the presentation but also introduces a refreshing flavor that lifts the entire dish. -
Hazelnut Milkshake:
Pair it with a creamy hazelnut milkshake for a rich, indulgent beverage that ties the flavors together seamlessly.
Make Ahead Options
These Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply mix the flour, cocoa powder, salt, eggs, sugars, tahini, and vanilla, then cover tightly. The Nutella layer can also be made ahead; just freeze it, and it’ll remain ready to use for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, layer the batter with the Nutella and add the toppings just before popping it in the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy a freshly baked dessert without the last-minute rush, ensuring each brownie remains just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for ingredients like flour and cocoa powder to avoid dry brownies. Spoon and level your flour for best results.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, fold gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
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Perfect Cooling: Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set up nicely, ensuring that each piece holds its shape.
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Check for Doneness: Look for a crackly top and set edges; the center should still have a slight wobble. If in doubt, take them out—undercooked brownies are gooey and delicious!
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Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or a drizzle of caramel. Enhancing these brownies with different toppings can elevate the molten chocolate hazelnut tahini experience!
Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these brownies to suit your taste buds!
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Nut-Free: Swap tahini with sunflower seed butter for a similar nutty flavor without the nuts.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free treat everyone can enjoy.
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Lower Sugar: Reduce both types of sugar by 1/4 cup each and add a mashed banana for added sweetness and moisture.
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Double Chocolate: Mix in a handful of chocolate chips throughout the batter for an extra chocolatey experience in every bite.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or some chili powder to the batter for a surprising spicy twist that balances the sweetness.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1 tsp of mint extract for a refreshing mint chocolate brownie variation that’s perfect for those who love mint chocolate chip flavors.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) and use vegan dark chocolate for a delightful chocolaty treat.
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Fruitful Delight: Toss in a handful of raspberries or chopped cherries for a fruity burst that adds a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
These variations are your blank canvas—let your culinary imagination run wild!
How to Store and Freeze Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies
Room Temperature: Once cooled, store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store brownies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delightful flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy warm brownies, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warm but not too hot, allowing that molten chocolate hazelnut tahini goodness to shine through!
Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Nutella for my brownies?
Absolutely! Look for a jar of Nutella that has a smooth and glossy appearance. It should be free from separation or any dark spots, indicating freshness. Always check the expiration date to ensure the product is still good.
How should I store my brownies after baking?
Very good question! Once your brownies have completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best chocolatey flavor.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies, first wrap each individual brownie in plastic wrap to protect them from freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply let them thaw in the fridge or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
What if my brownies are too gooey?
Very helpful question! If you find your brownies are too gooey, it could be because they were underbaked. I recommend checking for doneness at the minimum baking time. Look for a glossy top and make sure the edges are firm while the center has just a slight jiggle. If they still feel too soft after resting, pop them back in the oven for a couple more minutes.
Are these brownies safe for those with nut allergies?
I often get this question! Since this recipe uses Nutella and hazelnuts, which contain nuts, they’re not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, you could experiment by substituting a nut-free spread and omit any additional nuts to create a nut-free version. Always make sure to check labels on ingredients for hidden allergens.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover brownies?
The best way to reheat is to microwave individual brownies for 10-15 seconds; just enough to warm them up without becoming too hot or losing their perfect texture. If you want that gooey revolutionary taste to shine through, consider drizzling a bit of melted Nutella on top while reheating. Enjoy!
Molten Chocolate Hazelnut Tahini Brownies That Wow Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line a square 8×8 baking dish with wax paper, ensuring it's well-fitted.
- Measure out the Nutella into a heatproof bowl and microwave for 30 seconds to make it easier to spread.
- Pour the warm Nutella into the wax paper-lined dish, spreading it into an even layer. Freeze for about 30 minutes.
- Once the Nutella is firm, lift it out carefully and transfer it to a plate or tray. Place back in the freezer.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugars until pale and creamy.
- Add in the tahini and vanilla, mixing until well combined. Gently fold in the dry ingredients and half of the chopped dark chocolate.
- Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Remove the frozen Nutella and place it on top.
- Spread the remaining brownie batter over the Nutella. Sprinkle the rest of the chocolate chunks, chopped hazelnuts, and sesame seeds on top.
- Bake the brownies for 28-32 minutes until the top is crackly and glossy.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing.