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Hazelnut Crunch Brownies: A Nutty Twist on Classic Fudge Bliss

“Nut” Your Average Brownie

Let’s be honest — when it comes to dessert, basic just won’t cut it. You deserve a treat that’s bold, indulgent, and just a little bit nutty. Enter: Hazelnut Crunch Brownies. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill chocolate squares. They’re a triple-threat of texture, flavor, and flair: fudgy base, caramelized hazelnut brittle, and whipped hazelnut cream frosting with chocolate chips.

Think of them as brownies with a personality — rich, layered, and just cheeky enough to steal the spotlight at your next holiday gathering or cozy night in. The secret weapon? Torani Hazelnut Syrup. It adds depth, warmth, and subtle sweetness, transforming a boxed mix into a bakery-worthy masterpiece.

For a cozy holiday gift combo, pair these with a jar of Hot Cocoa Mix — perfect for a thoughtful, homemade touch.

Stacked Hazelnut Crunch Brownies with glossy chocolate frosting and chopped hazelnuts on top, styled on a rustic surface with warm lighting and cozy holiday props. — Hazelnut Crunch Brownies – Fudgy, Nutty, and Totally Giftable | Fudgy Frosting Variation

Why You’ll Love These Hazelnut Crunch Brownies

Double texture delight: Chewy, chocolatey brownies topped with a crisp hazelnut brittle and creamy frosting.
Simple upgrades: Start with a boxed mix, finish with gourmet flair.
Holiday showstopper: Perfect for cookie trays, potlucks, or edible gifts.
Torani twist: Hazelnut syrup adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates every layer.

Recipe originally published in 2011. Updated in 2025 with new visuals, tested improvements, and expert baking insights for the best Hazelnut Crunch Brownies yet.

Ingredients

Brownies:

1 box chocolate brownie mix
1/8 cup Torani Hazelnut Syrup
1/8 cup water
1/2 cup oil
2 eggs

Crunch Topping:

1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and skinned
2/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup water
2 tablespoons Torani Hazelnut Syrup

Frosting:

1 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon Torani Hazelnut Syrup
1/4 cup bittersweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon sugar

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Brownies

Preheat your oven as directed on the brownie mix box.
Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brownie mix, oil, eggs, water, and Torani Hazelnut Syrup until just combined. Do not overmix.
Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake according to package directions.
Allow brownies to cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Hazelnut Crunch

In a dry skillet, toast hazelnuts over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Transfer to a clean towel and rub to remove skins.
Arrange the toasted nuts on a wax paper–lined baking sheet.
In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Heat over medium-high until sugar dissolves, then cook without stirring until light amber (about 8 minutes).
Remove from heat, stir in Torani Hazelnut Syrup, and pour the caramel over the hazelnuts.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until firm.
Once hardened, cover with wax paper and crush with a rolling pin or chop into small pieces.

Step 3: Whip the Frosting

Beat heavy cream and sugar together until soft peaks form.
Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.
Beat in Torani Hazelnut Syrup until smooth and creamy.
Fold in chocolate chips and crushed hazelnut crunch.
Spread frosting evenly over cooled brownies. Cut into 8 servings and enjoy.

Expert Tips for Perfect Hazelnut Crunch Brownies

Toasting tip: Hazelnuts toast fast — watch closely once the skins begin to crackle.
Cooling matters: Frosting warm brownies will melt the cream topping.
Texture upgrade: Reserve a few brittle pieces to sprinkle on top for extra crunch.

Variations & Creative Twists

Mocha Hazelnut Brownies: Add 1 tablespoon instant espresso to the brownie mix for a coffeehouse vibe.
Nut-Free Version: Swap hazelnuts for toasted coconut or rice crisps.
Holiday Drizzle: Melt white chocolate and drizzle for a festive finish.
Fudgy Frosting Shortcut: While brownies are still warm, sprinkle a bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for 2 minutes, then spread with a spatula for an easy alternative.

For another crowd-pleasing dessert, try Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled for a firmer bite or at room temperature for a softer, creamier texture. These brownies pair beautifully with Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream or a mug of Homemade Chai Latte for the ultimate comfort combo.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use homemade brownie batter instead of boxed?
A: Yes! Keep the liquid ratios similar. Replace half the water with Torani Hazelnut Syrup for consistent flavor.

Q: How do I store these brownies?
A: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freeze unfrosted brownies for up to 3 months.

Q: What’s the best way to crush the hazelnut brittle?
A: Use the flat side of a rolling pin or pulse gently in a food processor.

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Final Thoughts

Hazelnut Crunch Brownies prove that dessert doesn’t need to be complicated to be unforgettable. With a boxed mix, a few pantry staples, and a splash of Torani Hazelnut Syrup, you’ll create a treat that’s rich, textured, and totally giftable. Whether you’re building a holiday cookie tray or just treating yourself, these brownies deliver big flavor with minimal fuss.

8 servings

Hazelnut Crunch Brownies: A Nutty Twist on Classic Fudge Bliss

Indulge in these Hazelnut Crunch Brownies, a fudgy, chocolatey delight topped with caramelized hazelnut brittle and whipped hazelnut frosting. Perfect for holiday gift trays, cozy nights in, or pairing with a warm mug of Ultimate Hot Cocoa Mix. This easy upgrade to a boxed brownie mix delivers bakery-worthy results with minimal effort.