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Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Bars Recipe

Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Bars Recipe

4.8 from 7 reviews

These Chocolate Hazelnut Shortbread Bars combine a buttery, crumbly shortbread base with crunchy hazelnuts and rich semisweet chocolate chips, making for an irresistibly cozy and comforting treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

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

Mix-ins

  • 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender shortbread texture.
  3. Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt to the butter-sugar mixture to enhance the flavor profile.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough and keeping the shortbread delicate.
  5. Fold in Hazelnuts and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the chopped hazelnuts and semisweet chocolate chips into the dough until evenly distributed, adding crunchy texture and chocolate richness.
  6. Press Dough into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface to ensure even baking and an attractive final bar.
  7. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are lightly golden, indicating the shortbread is cooked through but still tender inside.
  8. Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into 12 squares for serving.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, lightly toast hazelnuts before chopping.
  • Use parchment paper with some overhang for easy removal from the pan.
  • Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • To make these bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate hazelnut bars, shortbread bars, chocolate chip bars, hazelnut dessert, easy baked treats