Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this chocolate hazelnut panini! It’s honestly one of my favorite quick treats to whip up when I need a little pick-me-up. Just imagine the creamy, rich chocolate hazelnut spread melting between two slices of perfectly toasted bread, with crunchy hazelnuts adding that delightful texture. It’s like having dessert for lunch, but without the fuss! The best part? You can have it ready in just about 10 minutes! Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or surprising a friend with a sweet snack, this panini is bound to impress. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll be craving it again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 slices of your choice of bread (sourdough, whole grain, or even brioche work wonderfully)
- 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (I love using a generous amount for that rich flavor!)
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts (these add the perfect crunch and nutty goodness)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for that golden, crispy exterior that makes it irresistible)
How to Prepare Instructions
- Start by grabbing your two slices of bread. Spread a generous 2 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread on one slice, making sure to cover it evenly. You want that chocolate goodness to shine!
- Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped hazelnuts over the chocolate spread. Don’t be shy—this is where you’ll get that lovely crunch that pairs so beautifully with the creamy chocolate.
- Now, place the second slice of bread on top, creating your sandwich. This is the moment to press down gently to help everything stick together.
- Grab your butter and spread it on the outside of both slices of bread. This will give your panini that mouthwatering golden-brown crust when grilled.
- Heat up your panini press or a skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a skillet, you might want to place a heavy pan on top of your sandwich to help it grill evenly.
- Grill the sandwich for about 3-5 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn! Once it’s ready, slice it in half and serve it warm. Enjoy that ooey-gooey chocolate goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days!
- Deliciously rich flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth.
- A satisfying snack that works any time of day.
- Vegetarian-friendly, so everyone can enjoy it.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or spreads.
Tips for Success
To make the best chocolate hazelnut panini, there are a few little tricks I swear by! First, use day-old bread if you have it; it gets even crispier! If you’re feeling adventurous, try warming the chocolate hazelnut spread slightly before spreading it on the bread. This makes it easier to spread and enhances that gooey, melty texture. Also, don’t skimp on the butter—cover the outside well for that delicious golden crust. If you’re grilling in a skillet, be sure to flip the sandwich halfway through to get that even crispiness. And of course, feel free to experiment with different nuts or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Variations
One of the best things about the chocolate hazelnut panini is how easy it is to customize! You can switch up the bread to match your mood—try using ciabatta for a crusty bite or even cinnamon-raisin bread for a sweet twist. Feeling fruity? Add some sliced bananas or strawberries inside for a fresh burst of flavor. You could also experiment with other nuts like almonds or walnuts to mix up that crunch. And if you want to get a little fancy, drizzle some caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before grilling. The possibilities are endless, and every variation is delicious!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one chocolate hazelnut panini: approximately 450 calories, with 20g of fat (6g saturated), 10g of protein, 60g of carbohydrates, and 20g of sugar. Keep in mind these values can vary based on the type of bread and chocolate hazelnut spread you choose. It’s a delightful treat that’s rich in flavor, but definitely something to enjoy in moderation!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have any leftover chocolate hazelnut panini (which is rare, trust me!), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up, so it doesn’t get soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is super easy! You can pop it in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side to get that crispy texture back. If you have a toaster oven, that works great too! Just keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Enjoy that melty chocolate goodness all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I use different spreads instead of chocolate hazelnut?
Absolutely! While the chocolate hazelnut spread is a star, you can switch things up with almond butter, peanut butter, or even a fruit spread. Just think of your favorite flavors!
What’s the best type of bread for a chocolate hazelnut panini?
I love using crusty breads like sourdough or ciabatta for that perfect crunch, but honestly, you can use any bread you prefer. Whole grain is great for a healthier option, and brioche gives it a sweet, buttery touch.
Can I make this panini ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh and warm, you can prepare the sandwich ahead and store it in the fridge. Just remember to grill it right before serving for that crispy texture!
What if I don’t have a panini press?
No worries! You can easily make it in a skillet. Just place a heavy pan on top to help it grill evenly, or flip it halfway through cooking for that golden crust.
Is the chocolate hazelnut panini suitable for kids?
Definitely! This sweet treat is a hit with kids and adults alike. Just keep an eye on the portion sizes, as it’s quite rich and indulgent. Perfect for a fun snack or dessert!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Creamy Chicken Pasta.
Print
Chocolate Hazelnut Panini: 10 Minutes to Sweet Bliss
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious chocolate hazelnut panini that combines rich chocolate spread with crunchy hazelnuts in toasted bread.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread
- 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Spread chocolate hazelnut spread on one slice of bread.
- Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the spread.
- Top with the second slice of bread.
- Butter the outside of the sandwich.
- Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat.
- Grill the sandwich until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any type of bread you prefer.
- Feel free to add sliced bananas for extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of hazelnuts based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: chocolate hazelnut panini, dessert panini, easy panini recipe
