Nutella Crumble Cake Bars

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Absolutely! Here’s a full-length, detailed recipe for Nutella Crumble Cake Bars, complete with an introduction, historical background, ingredient breakdown, preparation method, variations, and even a romantic culinary twist.

Nutella Crumble Cake Bars – A Love Letter in Every Bite

Introduction

Nutella Crumble Cake Bars are more than just a dessert—they are a rich, velvety, and buttery celebration of flavor that brings together the nostalgia of chocolate-hazelnut spread and the irresistible charm of a crumbly shortbread. Each bite melts into a silky Nutella layer surrounded by golden, buttery crumble, offering comfort and joy in equal measure. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy evening, or simply to impress someone you love, these bars are bound to become a cherished favorite.

History of Nutella and Crumble Cakes

Nutella’s origins trace back to 1946 Italy, created by Pietro Ferrero. Initially a chocolate-hazelnut paste called “Pasta Gianduja,” it evolved into Nutella by 1964, becoming a global phenomenon loved for its smooth texture and distinct flavor. Crumble cakes, on the other hand, have roots in European baking traditions, especially in Germany and England, where streusels and crumbles were used to top fruit desserts.

Combining Nutella with a classic crumble base is a modern invention that reflects culinary innovation and a desire to blend comfort with indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Crumble:

  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

For the Nutella Layer:

  • 1 cup (300g) Nutella (or any quality hazelnut-chocolate spread)
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream

For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):

  • ½ cup (60g) chopped hazelnuts
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Method & Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch (20×20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy lifting later. Lightly grease the parchment.

2. Make the Crust and Crumble:

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter, two forks, or your fingertips, cut the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs—like wet sand or streusel topping.
Divide the mixture in half. Press one half firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.

3. Parbake the Crust:

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until it is just lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

4. Make the Nutella Cream Layer:

In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy cream to a light simmer (do not boil). Remove from heat and immediately stir in the Nutella. Mix until completely smooth and glossy. Pour this mixture over the warm crust and spread evenly with a spatula.

5. Add the Crumble Topping:

Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture evenly over the Nutella layer. For added texture and flavor, top with chopped hazelnuts and a dusting of granulated sugar. This step gives a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness.

6. Bake Again:

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crumble topping is golden and the Nutella layer is slightly set (it will firm up more as it cools).

7. Cool Completely:

Remove from oven and let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang. Slice into 16 squares for bite-size treats or 9 larger squares for a more indulgent serving.

Formation and Texture

These bars are a beautiful balance of textures:

  • Base: Buttery and slightly crisp crust
  • Center: Smooth, creamy Nutella-chocolate ganache
  • Top: Crumbly, nutty, golden topping with a delicate crunch

They hold their shape well but melt on the tongue—a signature of a well-crafted bar dessert.

For the Lovers – A Romantic Baking Twist

This recipe is perfect for couples or sweethearts looking to spend quality time in the kitchen. Baking together is intimate, fun, and creates shared memories. Set the mood with soft music, light a candle, and take turns adding ingredients, stirring, or sprinkling hazelnuts. As you wait for the bars to bake, sip some coffee or wine and let the sweet aroma fill your space. Once they’re cooled, feed each other a bite—you’ll feel the love in every crumble.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • Pair with a cup of espresso or hot chocolate
  • Drizzle with a little melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar for presentation

Conclusion

Nutella Crumble Cake Bars are a treat born from tradition, perfected by passion, and cherished by sweet-toothed lovers around the world. They’re easy enough to make on a quiet afternoon but decadent enough to serve on a special date night or festive gathering. When you share these bars, you’re not just giving dessert—you’re giving comfort, joy, and maybe even a little bit of love.

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