Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Whenever I crave something sweet, these Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars come to mind. The combination of the rich chocolate and the nutty hazelnut flavors is utterly satisfying, making every bite feel indulgent. I love how easy they are to prepare, bringing together simple ingredients to create a delicious treat. Perfect for a quick snack or a dessert to share with friends, these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delightful addition to any gathering.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:52:12.433Z

When I first made these Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars, I knew I had found a winner. The process starts with creating a buttery crust that perfectly complements the creamy filling. I experimented with different ratios of chocolate to hazelnut spread until I found the ideal balance, which makes these bars truly irresistible!

Another tip that I discovered is how crucial it is to let the bars cool completely before cutting them. This break allows the filling to set properly, ensuring that every slice has the perfect texture. Trust me; patience pays off in delicious rewards!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with nutty hazelnut goodness
Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
Great for parties, picnics, or just a sweet indulgence

      

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting quality chocolate hazelnut spread plays a significant role in achieving the best flavor in these bars. I recommend looking for a spread with a higher cocoa content for a richer chocolate experience. Brands may vary in sweetness, so adjust your sugar slightly if you're using a particularly sweet spread to ensure the balance of flavors remains harmonious.

When it comes to the hazelnuts, opt for fresh, preferably roasted nuts to deepen their flavor profile. If you can't find chopped hazelnuts, you can substitute with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a different texture and taste. Just remember that the nutty aspect of this recipe is essential, so choose a nut that you enjoy.

Perfecting the Baking Process

For optimal results, ensure your butter is softened but not melting—this aids in creating a tender, flaky crust. When mixing the crust ingredients, don’t overwork the dough; a few seconds should suffice until it just holds together. Press the crust firmly but gently into the dish to avoid a dense product. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to turn a light golden color after baking.

After adding the filling, bake just until it’s set and slightly wobbly in the center; typically, 10 minutes is ideal. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling; a sharp knife dipped in warm water can help achieve clean cuts.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (optional)

Instructions

Make the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt until a dough forms. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Prepare the filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate hazelnut spread, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Assemble the bars

Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts if desired. Bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Cool and cut

Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish. Once cool, cut into squares or bars and serve.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving. You can also substitute the hazelnuts with other nuts if preferred.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, where they will remain fresh for about a week. Just make sure to allow them to return to room temperature before serving, as this helps enhance their creamy filling.

If you’d like to freeze them, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to two months this way. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These bars are delightful on their own but are equally tasty served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the indulgence. For added flair, sprinkle a fine dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top just before serving.

You can also customize the filling by incorporating ingredients like shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or even a swirl of caramel for added decadence. If you prefer a dessert that’s less sweet, consider using dark chocolate hazelnut spread for a more robust flavor profile that balances the sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Absolutely! You can use almond butter or peanut butter if you prefer.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with the bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.