Simple Nutella Brownies

In today’s fast-paced world, quick and easy desserts are more than just convenient—they’re a lifesaver for busy parents, college students, or anyone craving something sweet without the mess. These brownies check all the boxes: fast, fuss-free, and incredibly satisfying.

It’s no surprise that this recipe has gone viral across food blogs, YouTube channels, and TikTok. People everywhere are embracing its simplicity and consistently delicious results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a total newbie, you’ll find joy in making (and devouring) these brownies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a reason this recipe is a favorite among dessert lovers: it’s ridiculously easy and wildly delicious. With only three ingredients and one mixing bowl, it’s nearly impossible to mess up—which makes it perfect for both kids and beginner bakers.

The texture is a dream: soft, fudgy in the center with chewy edges, and a shiny, crackly top that rivals any classic brownie. You’d never guess it didn’t come from a complex, multi-step process.

But perhaps the best part? There’s hardly any cleanup involved. No mixers. No mountain of dishes. Just a spoon, a bowl, and a baking pan. You can throw this together in less than five minutes, pop it in the oven, and enjoy warm brownies before your favorite Netflix show even starts.

It’s the kind of dessert that proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something truly special.

Ingredients Breakdown

The beauty of 3-Ingredient Nutella Brownies lies in how these three simple components work together to create such a rich treat.

• Nutella: This chocolate-hazelnut spread is the star of the show. It provides sweetness, fat, cocoa, and a smooth base—all the things you’d typically need multiple ingredients for. Because it’s already sweetened and flavored, it does a lot of the heavy lifting.
• Eggs: Eggs add structure and help bind the ingredients into a cohesive batter. They also contribute to the fudgy texture we all crave in a brownie. Room-temperature eggs work best, as they incorporate more smoothly with the Nutella.
• Flour: A small amount of flour is all it takes to give these brownies their body. All-purpose flour is the go-to, but feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour or almond flour for dietary needs. Almond flour adds a slightly nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the hazelnut spread.

That’s it. No baking powder, butter, or sugar needed. Just three pantry staples working in harmony to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make your brownies? Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil or butter. Parchment is ideal—it makes lifting the brownies out much easier.

Step 2: Mix the Nutella and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1½ cups of Nutella and 2 large eggs. Whisk until the mixture is smooth, shiny, and fully blended. It’ll be thick and luscious.

Pro Tip: Let your eggs sit at room temperature before using. They blend better and help create that glossy, bakery-style top.

Step 3: Add the Flour

Add ½ cup of all-purpose flour to the Nutella mixture. Stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing—this can make the brownies tough instead of soft and fudgy.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Pro Tip: If you like gooier brownies, take them out closer to the 18-minute mark. For firmer brownies, go a little longer.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out. Cut into squares and enjoy warm or at room temp.

That’s it—no mixer, no fuss, and barely any mess.

Texture and Flavor Profile

These brownies are all about intense, rich flavor and irresistible texture. The edges are perfectly chewy, while the center stays moist and fudgy. You’ll also notice a lovely shiny, crackly top—a signature brownie trait that feels satisfying with every bite.

Flavor-wise, expect a deep chocolate hit with subtle hazelnut notes. It’s richer than boxed brownie mix and smoother than most homemade ones—all thanks to the creamy Nutella.

Despite having no butter or sugar added, the flavor is well-rounded and decadent, making these brownies ideal for both casual snacking and elegant dessert spreads.

Serving Suggestions

These brownies are fantastic straight from the pan—but if you want to take them up a notch, try one of these serving ideas:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm brownie for an instant brownie sundae.
• Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for added flair.
• Pair with milk, coffee, or espresso—the flavors complement perfectly.
• Hosting a party? Cut into mini squares and serve on a platter with toothpicks as bite-sized treats.

You can also sandwich marshmallow fluff or peanut butter between two squares for a fun twist on a brownie “whoopie pie.”

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic 3-ingredient Nutella brownies, the possibilities for customizing them are endless. Here are some fun, tasty twists to keep things fresh and exciting.

Add-ins

• Chopped nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts, or pecans add crunch and richness.
• Chocolate chips (semi-sweet, white, or dark) make them even more indulgent.
• Dried fruit like cherries or cranberries can give a tangy contrast to the sweet, fudgy base.

Swirls

Add a swirl for visual appeal and a flavor punch:

• Peanut butter makes them extra decadent.
• Caramel sauce adds a gooey, buttery contrast.
• Cream cheese creates a brownie-cheesecake hybrid that’s hard to resist.

Toppings

Before baking, sprinkle the batter with:

• Sea salt flakes for that trendy sweet-salty combo.
• Crushed hazelnuts for texture and an extra nod to the Nutella.
• Shaved chocolate or toffee bits for added flair.

Dietary Adjustments

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Almond flour adds a rich nuttiness that pairs perfectly with Nutella.

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free chocolate-hazelnut spread like Justin’s or Nutiva. These alternatives still offer that creamy, chocolatey base.

Vegan: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins) or 3 tbsp aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas). The results are still moist and fudgy with a slight adjustment in texture.

Experimenting with these add-ins and adjustments allows you to tailor the brownies to your taste—or surprise your guests with a unique version each time!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about these brownies is how well they store. Whether you’re prepping ahead for a gathering or just saving a few for later, here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Refrigeration: For a longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 7 days. They actually get a little fudgier and denser the longer they chill.
• Freezing: Want to save some for a rainy day? Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: For that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, pop a brownie in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. It softens the texture and makes them gooey again—perfect with ice cream.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the simplest recipes can hit a snag. If your brownies don’t turn out quite right, here are some quick fixes:

Dry Brownies

This usually means they were baked too long or at too high a temperature. Always set a timer and check for doneness a few minutes early. Your toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not completely clean.

Undercooked Center

If the edges are done but the center is still gooey, it might be an issue with oven calibration or uneven batter spreading. Use an offset spatula to level the batter before baking, and rotate the pan halfway through if your oven has hot spots.

Crumbly Texture

Dry, crumbly brownies may also result from incorrect flour measurement—especially if you’re not using a scale. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off, or better yet, weigh it for accuracy.

Flat or Dense Brownies

This recipe is naturally dense and fudgy, but if they’re too flat, it could be due to old eggs or not beating them well enough. Eggs help give lift, so make sure they’re fresh and fully incorporated.

Little tweaks go a long way in brownie perfection!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Can I use a different chocolate-hazelnut spread?

Yes! You can use alternatives like Justin’s, Nutiva, or store-brand versions. Keep in mind that texture and sweetness might vary, especially if the spread is thicker or less sweet than Nutella.

Is it possible to make these brownies without flour?

Yes, for a more gooey and dense version, you can leave out the flour or substitute with almond flour or oat flour. They’ll be a bit softer but still hold together nicely.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

Start checking around 18 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. The top will look glossy and set, and the edges might pull slightly away from the sides of the pan.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan for a double batch and extend the baking time to 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges and test the center for doneness.

Are these brownies suitable for children?

Yes, these are kid-friendly and a great way to involve children in baking. There’s no hot stovetop involved, and little ones love stirring and licking the spoon!

Can I add cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor?

Definitely. Add 1–2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the batter for a deeper, more intense chocolate experience.

What’s the best way to cut the brownies cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. For super clean lines, let the brownies cool completely, or even chill them for 15 minutes before slicing.

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