Chocolate glazed donuts with hazelnuts

Chocolate Glazed Brownies with Hazelnuts – A Sweet and Delicious Indulgence

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn’t love a fluffy, rich chocolate cake that delights the senses? Chocolate glazed brownies with hazelnuts are a perfect choice for any occasion – from a simple gathering with friends to special celebrations. With a moist texture and decadent glaze, these brownies quickly become everyone’s favorite. Plus, they are very easy to make, making them ideal even for beginners.

A Brief History
Brownies have an interesting history, known for their moist texture and rich chocolate flavor. Their origins are often debated, but what is certain is that they have evolved over time, becoming a beloved dessert worldwide. The addition of hazelnuts not only provides a pleasant crunch but also a delicious contrast to the chocolate, making these brownies truly special.

Necessary Ingredients
- 5 eggs
- 100 ml milk
- 2 packets of baking powder
- 8 tablespoons of high-quality cocoa
- A pinch of cinnamon
- 500 g flour
- 1 essence of rum
- 50 ml oil
- 2 milk chocolates (approx. 200 g)
- 50 g shelled hazelnuts

Ingredient Details
- Cocoa: Choose a high-quality cocoa to achieve an intense chocolate flavor. Inferior quality cocoa can affect the final taste of the brownies.
- Hazelnuts: These can be lightly roasted in the oven to enhance their flavor. If you prefer, you can also use other nuts, such as walnuts or pistachios.
- Rum essence: This adds a subtle flavor note but can be omitted or replaced with vanilla essence if you prefer a milder taste.

Step by Step for Perfect Brownies

1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture.

2. Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and cinnamon. This step is essential to prevent lumps in the batter and to achieve a fine and even texture.

3. Create the Nest
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the eggs, milk, oil, and rum essence. Use a mixer to blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the brownies dense.

4. Prepare the Baking Pan
Grease a baking pan with oil and dust it with flour. This will prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan and ensure easy removal after baking. You can use a square or rectangular pan, depending on your preference.

5. Baking
Pour the batter into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the brownies for about 30 minutes. You can test with a toothpick: if it comes out clean, the brownies are ready.

6. Prepare the Glaze
While the brownies are baking, roughly chop the chocolate and place it in a heat-resistant bowl. Add a teaspoon of oil and melt the chocolate in a bain-marie. This method will prevent the chocolate from burning and ensure a smooth glaze.

7. Add the Hazelnuts
Once the chocolate is melted, add the shelled hazelnuts to the mixture and stir well. These will add a crunchy texture and delicious flavor.

8. Glaze the Brownies
Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, carefully pour the chocolate glaze over the brownies and level it with a spatula for an even layer.

9. Final Cooling
Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares or rectangles. This will make cutting easier and allow the glaze to set.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Chocolate glazed brownies with hazelnuts are delicious served plain, but you can add a scoop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side for a contrast of temperatures and textures. Additionally, a fruit tea or a flavored coffee perfectly complements this dessert.

Tips for a Perfect Result
- Do not open the oven door during baking to prevent temperature drops.
- Check with a toothpick if the brownies are baked. If the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s perfect, as the brownies should remain moist inside.
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour or reduce the amount of added sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I substitute the eggs with something else?
Yes, you can use banana puree or yogurt as a substitute for eggs, but the final texture and taste may vary.

2. How can I keep the brownies fresh?
Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can stay fresh for a few days. You can also keep them in the fridge, but make sure they are well covered to avoid absorbing odors from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze the brownies?
Yes, the brownies can be frozen. Cut them into portions and wrap them in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thawing is done slowly at room temperature.

Conclusion
Chocolate glazed brownies with hazelnuts are a dessert that combines tradition with innovation, being easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. With each bite, you will discover a rich chocolate flavor and a crunchy texture from the hazelnuts. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the flavor!