Dessert

Flourless Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan January 21, 2026January 21, 2026

Introduction

These Flourless Chocolate Hazelnut Brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with nutty flavor. They offer an indulgent treat for chocolate lovers that’s naturally gluten-free and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, these brownies combine the deep taste of dark chocolate with the crunch of hazelnuts.

A stack of four rich, dark brown chocolate brownies with visible bits of nuts inside each piece, each layer thick and moist with a soft crumb texture. The brownies are drizzled with glossy dark chocolate sauce that drips slightly down the sides, adding a shiny contrast to the matte brownie surface. They stand tall on a flat surface with scattered nut pieces around, set against a white marbled texture background. A white bowl with a golden spoon is partially visible on the left side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups hazelnut meal (hazelnuts ground into a flour in the food processor), plus 1/4 cup coarsely chopped hazelnuts
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon espresso powder

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks
6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

3 ounces dark chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Line an 8×8 inch square baking dish with parchment paper or foil and set it aside.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the hazelnut meal, cocoa powder, salt, and espresso powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Melt the butter and chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 4: Whisk the melted butter and chocolate mixture together with the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Gently fold the hazelnut mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the coarsely chopped hazelnuts evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake for about 40 minutes. The edges should be firm while the center remains slightly loose — these brownies are delicate when warm.
Step 7: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan, preferably overnight. Once cooled, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly ground hazelnuts for the best flavor and texture. To toast them beforehand enhances the nutty aroma.

Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a unique twist.
For extra crunch, mix some chopped toasted hazelnuts directly into the batter.

Storage

Store these brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds to soften without melting the chocolate drizzle. These brownies can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows nine square brownie pieces arranged on a cooling rack over a white marbled texture. Each brownie has a rich, dark brown color with a slightly rough and moist texture. The top layer is studded with light brown nut pieces embedded into the surface. A glossy dark chocolate drizzle is spread in diagonal lines across each brownie, adding a shiny texture contrast. The cooling rack's metal lines create a grid pattern beneath the brownies, and a few drops of chocolate can be seen on the rack beneath some pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute hazelnut meal with almond flour?

Yes, almond flour can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be different. Hazelnut meal gives a unique, rich taste that complements the chocolate especially well.

Are these brownies suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely. Since this recipe uses hazelnut meal instead of flour, it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if sensitivity is a concern.