If you’ve got a jar of Nutella sitting in your pantry, you’re only a few ingredients away from magic. In this article, I’m sharing my favorite ways to turn that silky chocolate-hazelnut spread into unforgettable treats. From gooey brownies to dreamy no-bake bites, these recipes using Nutella chocolate spread are indulgent, fast, and bursting with nostalgic flavor. You’ll also get smart ways to use up that last spoonful in the jar and answers to your top Nutella questions. Whether you’re baking for fun or for cravings, there’s something here for every sweet tooth. These recipes using Nutella chocolate spread are more than desserts—they’re moments of joy.
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Sweet Beginnings With Nutella Chocolate Spread
Nutella nostalgia: My first chocolate swirl
The first time I swirled Nutella into warm cookie dough was in my grandmother’s kitchen. I was 12, and I’d snuck a spoonful straight from the jar. “Use it in something, Riley,” she teased. So, I folded it into blondies, and just like that—magic. That moment sparked my love for recipes using Nutella chocolate spread. There’s something about that glossy texture and bold hazelnut kick that turns ordinary sweets into soul-warming desserts. At Gourmet Candy Lab, I always keep a jar nearby—just in case creativity (or cravings) strike.
These recipes using Nutella aren’t just indulgent—they’re the bridge between quick fixes and gourmet joy. Whether you’re mixing a batch of no-bake truffles or swirling Nutella through cheesecake batter, you’re guaranteed silky, rich flavor in every bite.
You’ll find similar comforting creativity in my molten chocolate lava bombs and dark chocolate bark creations. Like Nutella, they blend simplicity and decadence in every spoonful.
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Recipes Using Nutella Chocolate Spread
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These quick and delightful recipes using Nutella chocolate spread include brownies, oat truffles, and swirled cheesecake bars. Perfect for instant cravings or creative candy-making.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Nutella
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8 baking pan.
- Mix Nutella, eggs, and flour in a bowl until smooth.
- Spread into pan and bake for 20 minutes. Cool completely.
- For swirl bars, whip cream cheese with sugar and vanilla.
- Dollop Nutella on top and swirl with a knife. Bake until just set.
- Mix oats, Nutella, and maple syrup for truffles. Roll into balls.
- Refrigerate all treats until firm. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use leftover Nutella by adding warm milk into the jar for hot cocoa.
- Chill oat truffles for firmer texture. Store in fridge for 1 week.
- For extra crunch, add chopped hazelnuts or mini chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake, No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Why Nutella works in sweet recipes
Nutella’s texture and flavor are the secret behind its dessert success. It behaves like a fat, a sweetener, and a flavor bomb—all in one. The cocoa and hazelnut combo complements everything from shortbread to banana bread. Its oil content keeps baked goods moist, while its sugar content caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Plus, you don’t need to be a pastry chef to use it. You can:
- Swirl it into batters
- Use it as a frosting shortcut
- Stir it into warm milk for an instant hot chocolate fix
Need more chocolate inspiration? You might love my artisan truffle tutorial or valentine’s heart chocolate guide.
Below is a quick reference for common ingredients in top-performing recipes using Nutella
Common Nutella Pairings & Recipe Uses
| Ingredient | Recipe Ideas | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bananas | Nutella-stuffed banana bites | Great for quick snacks or frozen treats |
| Puff pastry | Nutella pinwheels, tarts | Bakes crisp and golden with gooey centers |
| Eggs + flour | 3-ingredient Nutella brownies | Viral recipe that’s rich and chewy |
| Sea salt | Nutella sea salt caramels | Elevates sweetness with a sharp contrast |
| Cream cheese | Nutella cheesecake swirl bars | Balances tang with chocolate depth |
“Nutella is like a flavor cheat code—it makes everything taste like childhood joy wrapped in chocolate.” – Riley, Gourmet Candy Lab
Quick & Easy Nutella Desserts Anyone Can Make
3-ingredient Nutella brownies (and more)
Sometimes, simplicity is pure magic. That’s exactly what happens with 3-ingredient Nutella brownies. Just Nutella, eggs, and flour—stir, bake, and in 20 minutes, you’ve got dense, fudgy squares that taste like you’ve been baking for hours.
Here’s how to do it:
Mix 1 cup of Nutella with 2 large eggs and ½ cup of all-purpose flour. Pour into a lined 8×8 pan, bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, and boom—brownie bliss.
This isn’t just a great way to use up a jar; it’s one of the easiest recipes using Nutella you’ll ever make.
Once you’ve mastered this base, try these delicious variations for more recipes using Nutella that work with pantry staples:
- Add crushed hazelnuts on top
- Swirl in cream cheese before baking
- Toss in chocolate chips or mini marshmallows
I use this exact method for my giant gummy bear base—the key is balance. When you’re working with concentrated sweetness, a little goes a long way. You could even drizzle leftover brownie batter onto rainbow cloud candy for a whimsical, chocolatey finish.
No-bake Nutella treats for instant gratification
Not turning on the oven? No problem. Recipes using Nutella work beautifully in no-bake form too.
Here are a few fast favorites:
- Nutella Rice Krispie bars: Swap out marshmallows for Nutella and press into a pan for chewy crunch.
- Nutella fudge: Microwave Nutella and sweetened condensed milk, then chill until sliceable.
- Nutella oat truffles: Combine rolled oats, Nutella, a touch of maple syrup, and roll into balls. Chill or freeze.
If you’re craving something sweet and simple, these no-bake recipes using Nutella are ideal for gifting or satisfying those late-night cravings.
I often package these in cellophane with handwritten tags. They pair wonderfully with Christmas candy canes or fun mixes like spicy candy kits.
Fast Nutella Desserts You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less
| Dessert Type | Ingredients Needed | Time to Make | Oven Needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Ingredient Brownies | Nutella, eggs, flour | 20 min | Yes |
| No-Bake Fudge | Nutella, condensed milk | 10 min + chill | No |
| Rice Krispie Bites | Nutella, puffed rice cereal | 15 min | No |
| Nutella Mug Cake | Nutella, egg, flour | 5 min | No (Microwave) |
| Oat Truffles | Oats, Nutella, syrup | 10 min + chill | No |
“You don’t need a full pantry or a pastry degree to whip up joy—just a jar of Nutella and a craving.”
If you’re new to dessert-making, start with these beginner-friendly recipes using Nutella—they’re tested, easy, and guaranteed to delight.
Creative & Gourmet Nutella Recipes for Showstopper Moments
Nutella cheesecake swirl bars: elegance meets ease
If there’s one recipe that makes people think you spent all day in the kitchen—it’s Nutella cheesecake swirl bars. They’re visually stunning, ridiculously creamy, and come together with less effort than you’d expect.
Here’s how I make them:
Whip cream cheese with sugar and a touch of vanilla, spread it over a graham cracker crust, then dollop Nutella across the top. Use a knife to create silky swirls, then bake until just set. The result? A rich, tangy base with ribbons of glossy Nutella.
These are one of the most elegant recipes using Nutella you’ll ever bake—and they’re easier than they look.
I love serving these alongside artisan chocolate truffles during dinner parties or gifting them in boxes with edible slime candy for fun contrast. It’s sweet sophistication with a playful twist.
Whether you’re new to baking or looking to elevate your candy skills, these kinds of recipes using Nutella offer that perfect mix of simplicity and presentation.
Nutella in candy making: beyond the spread
Nutella isn’t just for baking. I use it to create luscious candy fillings that surprise and delight. Whether spooned into molded chocolates or blended into caramel, Nutella brings a creamy, nutty depth that elevates homemade candies.
Gourmet recipes using Nutella often focus on texture contrast—soft fillings sealed inside crisp shells, or creamy spreads layered between brittle toffee.
Here are my favorite ways to incorporate it:
- Pipe Nutella into Halloween chocolate shells
- Blend with marshmallow fluff for Nutella nougat
- Whip with butter for creamy truffle centers
Want to experiment with form and texture? Try adding Nutella to crystal sugar art by sandwiching it between glassy candy disks—it’s a mix of soft and crunch that wows every time.
When I teach advanced techniques, I always include recipes using Nutella because of how easily it integrates into various textures, layers, and formats.
Nutella in Gourmet Confectionery
| Technique | Description | Best Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Swirled into cheesecake bars | Adds texture and richness | Dinner parties, gifts |
| Filled into molded chocolates | Creamy center for bonbons or candy shells | Holidays, weddings |
| Mixed into nougat | Marshmallowy candy with hazelnut-cocoa notes | Candy boxes, edible gifts |
| Swirled in toffee or bark | Creates ribbons of Nutella in crunchy textures | Seasonal treat platters |
| Layered in sugar candy art | Adds flavor depth to hard candy designs | Gourmet sampler sets |
“When you swirl Nutella through cheesecake or seal it in chocolate shells, you’re not just making candy—you’re crafting tiny love letters.”
Gourmet-level recipes using Nutella are easier than they seem and give you the freedom to create unique flavor combinations that still feel nostalgic.
Smart Ways to Use Up Every Last Bit of Nutella
Don’t waste a drop: Nutella jar hacks
If you’ve ever stared at a nearly empty Nutella jar, spoon in hand, wondering if you should lick it clean—this part’s for you. There’s gold in that jar. And yes, even these quick Nutella hacks count as recipes using Nutella if they make your taste buds smile.
1. Nutella Milk Jar:
Pour warm milk into the almost-empty jar, screw the lid on, shake like crazy. You’ve just made Nutella hot chocolate—extra creamy and cocoa-rich. Try it with oat or almond milk for a twist.
2. Yogurt Swirl:
Spoon in vanilla yogurt and stir. The residual Nutella creates a marbled treat that’s surprisingly satisfying.
3. Overnight Oats:
Add oats, milk, chia seeds, and honey. Close the lid and refrigerate. The next morning, you’ve got Nutella overnight oats with zero cleanup.
If you want creative ways to finish every jar, these “last spoon” tricks are also great prep for fast recipes using Nutella in breakfast-style desserts.
You can also blend the leftovers into cotton candy filling or swirl through Easter chocolate eggs for a seasonal surprise.
Creative ways to repurpose Nutella in meals
Nutella isn’t just for desserts. It makes cameos in breakfast, snacks, and even savory-sweet Nutella isn’t just for desserts. It makes cameos in breakfast, snacks, and even savory-sweet combos. Try these ideas:
- Spread on warm toast with sliced strawberries
- Add to pancake or crepe batter for a chocolatey kick
- Use as a dip for pretzels or cheese (yes, it works!)
- Drizzle over bacon for a smoky-sweet breakfast twist
While savory might not be your first thought, creative savory-sweet recipes using Nutella are gaining popularity for brunches and novelty gifts.
Don’t forget: Nutella can replace peanut butter in almost any recipe. Just expect a bit more sweetness and indulgence—perfect for elevating everyday bites into something crave-worthy. The most rewarding recipes using Nutella often start as improvisations.
If you’re craving even more sweet inspiration, I share exclusive behind-the-scenes recipe tests, styling tips, and candy-making tutorials over on Pinterest. It’s the perfect spot to explore all my recipes using Nutella and discover new favorites you’ll want to pin and try later.
FAQ: Answers to Your Top Nutella Questions
What can I do with Nutella spread?
You can bake, swirl, dip, and drizzle it into everything from brownies and cheesecakes to hot drinks and overnight oats. It’s incredibly versatile in both sweet and snacky dishes.
How to use up a jar of Nutella?
Try pouring warm milk into the jar for instant hot chocolate, or use it to flavor overnight oats, smoothies, or no-bake truffles. Even swirled into yogurt or oatmeal, it delivers maximum flavor.
How to make brownies with just Nutella?
Mix 1 cup Nutella with 2 eggs and ½ cup flour. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Optional: top with sea salt, nuts, or a swirl of cream cheese before baking.
What’s the difference between Nutella and Hershey’s chocolate spread?
Nutella is hazelnut-based with a rich nutty-cocoa flavor. Hershey’s spread is sweeter and more chocolate-forward, without the nutty undertones. Nutella also tends to be smoother and more spreadable.
Is Nutella a healthy spread?
While delicious, Nutella is high in sugar and fat. It’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet—especially when paired with fiber-rich or protein-packed foods.
What is chocolate spread used for?
Chocolate spreads like Nutella are great for toast, pastries, fillings, frostings, hot drinks, dips, and desserts. Their versatility makes them a pantry staple in sweet-focused kitchens.
“Whether you’re scraping the jar or swirling it into something magical, Nutella has a way of making even the simplest recipes feel special.”
And now that you’ve seen the range of recipes using Nutella—from gourmet to guilt-free—you’re equipped to make the most of every spoonful.
Conclusion: A Spread of Sweet Possibilities with Nutella
From a humble spoonful to show-stopping desserts, Nutella proves time and again that a little jar can spark a world of creativity. Whether you’re baking three-ingredient brownies, swirling it through a cheesecake, or just finding joy in the last few dabs clinging to the jar, these recipes using Nutella chocolate spread are here to satisfy cravings and inspire playful indulgence.
At Gourmet Candy Lab, I believe candy-making and dessert crafting should be fun, forgiving, and full of wonder. So next time you’re holding that jar of Nutella—remember, you’re holding the beginning of something delicious.
Now it’s your turn to swirl, scoop, and share. Let’s make something sweet together.
