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These rich chocolate hazelnut magic bars blend classic comfort with decadent flavor. Built on a buttery hazelnut flour base, layered with creamy Nutella, and topped with chocolate, coconut and toasted hazelnuts, they offer an irresistible gluten-free treat. The combination of textures and flavors creates a sophisticated dessert bar that proves gluten-free baking can be both simple and delicious.
Key Ingredients
- Hazelnut Flour: Select fresh, finely ground for best texture
- Nutella: Bring to room temperature before using
- Condensed Milk: Use full-fat for richness
- Dark Chocolate: Choose quality baking chips
- Coconut: Unsweetened flakes work best
- Hazelnuts: Toast before chopping
- Butter: Unsalted, melted but not hot
Preparation Steps
- Preparation:
- Preheat oven and line pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease paper. Center oven rack for even baking.
- Base Layer:
- Mix hazelnut flour with melted butter until crumbly. Press firmly into pan using flat-bottomed measuring cup. Pre-bake until set.
- Filling:
- Whisk Nutella and condensed milk until completely smooth. Pour evenly over pre-baked crust.
- Topping:
- Layer chocolate chips, coconut, and hazelnuts. Press gently to set.
- Baking:
- Bake until edges brown lightly and coconut turns golden. Don't overbake as bars will set while cooling.
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Serving Suggestions
Present bars in an elegant arrangement by alternating their placement on serving platters. Dust with cocoa powder using a paper doily stencil for decoration. For gifting, wrap individual bars in parchment and place in decorative boxes lined with metallic paper. Include serving suggestions and storage instructions. Create an impressive dessert display by surrounding bars with fresh berries, chocolate-covered hazelnuts, and coffee beans for garnish.
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Recipe Variations
Test kitchen experiments reveal several delicious adaptations. Try substituting macadamia nuts or pecans for hazelnuts. Sprinkle sea salt on top for contrast. Add extra melted dark chocolate drizzle after cooling. Mix different chocolate varieties in the topping layer for complex flavor.
Baking Tips
Success depends on proper oven temperature and timing. Watch for lightly golden edges and toasted coconut. Avoid overbaking - bars continue firming while cooling. Let reach room temperature before chilling if desired.
Serving Ideas
Cut into generous squares and arrange on decorative platters. Add fresh berries for color. Dust with cocoa powder for formal presentation. Serve with coffee ice cream for special occasions. Package individually in parchment paper tied with ribbon for gifting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make a smaller batch?
- Sure! A pan size of 8x8 works great for halving the recipe.
- → Does this recipe avoid gluten?
- Absolutely, as long as you stick with pure hazelnut flour.
- → What’s the best way to store them?
- Keep them covered at room temperature for freshness.
- → Can I swap out the hazelnuts?
- Of course! Other nuts will work, but hazelnuts pair best with the spread.
- → Why press the layers together?
- This ensures they stick well and won’t fall apart while eating.