Heavenly Chocolate-Hazelnut Panini Recipe for Sweet Cravings

I stumbled upon this delightful chocolate-hazelnut panini during a spontaneous cafe visit in rome.

The crispy bread and melting chocolate immediately caught my attention.

Warm, gooey centers promise a delectable experience that feels like a sweet culinary hug.

Nutty hazelnuts add a rich, satisfying crunch to every single bite.

Mediterranean cafes inspired this simple yet indulgent treat that anyone can recreate at home.

Sandwich lovers will appreciate how quickly this delicious creation comes together.

Grab your ingredients and get ready to surprise yourself with an effortless dessert that feels like a gourmet adventure.

Why Chocolate-Hazelnut Panini Feels So Indulgent

• Quick Dessert Delight: Whip up this chocolate-hazelnut panini in just minutes, perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
• Kid-Friendly Treat: Simple ingredients and easy preparation make this recipe a hit with children, allowing them to help in the kitchen and enjoy a delicious snack together.
• Versatile Indulgence: Easily customize by adding banana slices, switching bread types, or topping with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries for a personalized dessert experience.
• No-Fuss Cooking Method: Whether using a panini press or stovetop skillet, this recipe offers flexible cooking options that guarantee a crispy, golden-brown exterior and gooey chocolate-hazelnut center.

What You’ll Need for Crispy Gooey Bites

• Bread Slices, White Bread: Soft carrier for the sweet filling, preferably thick and sturdy bread with good toasting quality.

• Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread, Nutella: Rich, creamy chocolate spread that provides sweet, nutty flavor and smooth texture.
• Banana: Fresh, ripe fruit that adds natural sweetness and creamy texture to the sandwich.

• Butter: Helps create golden, crispy exterior when grilling the panini.
• Powdered Sugar: Light dusting for sweet garnish and elegant presentation.
• Whipped Cream: Optional topping for extra indulgence.
• Fresh Berries: Optional side serving for added freshness and color contrast.

Steps to Assemble and Toast With Care

Step 1: Spread Sweet Decadence

• Ripe banana slices
• Sliced strawberries
• Chopped hazelnuts

Step 2: Craft the Perfect Sandwich

Carefully construct your sandwich by pressing the coated bread slices together. Ensure the chocolate-hazelnut spread touches every corner of the bread.

Step 3: Butter the Exterior

Gently brush the outside of your sandwich with soft butter. This magical step transforms ordinary bread into a crispy, golden masterpiece that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 4: Heat and Transform

• Panini Press Method: Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown
• Skillet Method: Cook 2-3 minutes per side, pressing softly

Step 5: Elevate and Serve

• Light dusting of powdered sugar
• Fresh berries on the side
• Dollop of whipped cream
• Drizzle of additional chocolate sauce

Tips for Perfect Melt and Crunch

• Choose Ripe Bananas: Select perfectly yellow bananas without brown spots for the ideal sweetness and smooth texture inside your panini.
• Control Chocolate Spread Thickness: Apply a moderate layer of chocolate-hazelnut spread to prevent overwhelming the sandwich and ensure balanced flavor.
• Master Even Browning Technique: Press gently while cooking to create uniform golden-brown crispiness across the entire sandwich surface.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap regular bread with gluten-free options or use dairy-free butter alternatives for accommodating different dietary restrictions.
• Experiment with Flavor Additions: Consider sprinkling cinnamon or adding crushed hazelnuts between bread layers for extra depth and crunch.

How to Store or Reheat With Flavor Intact

• Refrigerate leftover panini in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss and maintain its texture.
• Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat to restore crispiness, avoiding microwave which can make the bread soggy.
• For best quality, consume within 24 hours of preparation to enjoy the optimal taste and texture of the chocolate-hazelnut panini.

Unique Spreads and Flavor Pairings

• Tropical Paradise Panini: Replace bananas with grilled pineapple slices and add shredded coconut for a Hawaiian-inspired sweet and tangy version.
• Nutty Caramel Crunch: Sprinkle chopped roasted almonds inside the sandwich and drizzle with salted caramel sauce before grilling for added texture and richness.
• Berry Bliss Panini: Swap banana with fresh raspberries and strawberries, then add a light spread of cream cheese to balance the chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
• Spiced Mocha Fusion: Mix a pinch of cinnamon and espresso powder into the chocolate-hazelnut spread for a warm, aromatic coffee-infused panini experience.

Hazelnut Panini Questions, Easily Answered

• What makes this panini different from a regular sandwich?

This chocolate-hazelnut panini transforms a simple sandwich into a decadent dessert-like treat by using rich chocolate-hazelnut spread and creating a crispy, golden exterior through careful grilling or pressing.

• Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Yes! While the recipe works best with sturdy bread like sourdough or brioche, you can experiment with whole wheat, white, or even gluten-free bread options that can hold up to grilling.

• Is this panini suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The combination of chocolate-hazelnut spread and optional banana makes this a kid-friendly recipe that feels like a special treat while being easy to prepare.

• Do I need a panini press to make this recipe?

Not at all. You can easily make this panini using a regular nonstick skillet. Just press the sandwich gently with a spatula to achieve a similar crispy texture and golden-brown finish.

Pairing Ideas for Sweet Panini Sides

• Brew the Perfect Companion: Pair this decadent chocolate-hazelnut panini with a rich, smooth cappuccino or a creamy latte to complement the sweet, nutty flavors.
• Sip a Sweet Contrast: Try a chilled glass of almond milk or a light vanilla milkshake to balance the warm, melted chocolate and crispy bread texture.
• Enhance with Fruity Notes: Serve alongside a small bowl of fresh raspberries or strawberries to add a bright, tangy counterpoint to the rich chocolate and hazelnut spread.
• Cool Down with a Refreshing Touch: Garnish with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to create a delightful dessert-like experience.

Chocolate-Hazelnut Panini Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 2 1x

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Description

Indulgent chocolate-hazelnut panini brings Italian sandwich magic to sweet breakfast dreams. Crisp golden bread hugs rich nutella filling, inviting dessert lovers to savor each warm, delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 slices crusty bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or brioche)
• 4 tablespoons (59 ml) chocolate-hazelnut spread (Nutella)
• 1 banana, thinly sliced

Spread and Garnish Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar

Serving Accompaniment:

• Fresh berries

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Instructions

1. Generously spread the chocolate-hazelnut mixture across one surface of each bread slice, ensuring complete and even coverage.
2. Layer thin banana medallions atop the spread, creating a delicate fruit foundation for the sandwich.
3. Carefully position the second bread slice over the banana layer, forming a complete sandwich structure.
4. Delicately brush the exterior of each bread surface with a light coating of butter, promoting a crisp and golden exterior during cooking.
5. Activate a panini press or nonstick skillet, setting the temperature to medium heat for optimal cooking conditions.
6. Gently place the assembled sandwich onto the heated surface, allowing it to transform into a crispy, golden delicacy.
7. For panini press: cook approximately 3-4 minutes until bread achieves a rich, caramelized tone and filling becomes luxuriously melted.
8. Alternative stovetop method: cook 2-3 minutes per side, applying gentle pressure with a spatula to ensure uniform browning.
9. Transfer the finished panini to a serving plate, slicing diagonally to reveal the molten interior.
10. Enhance presentation by dusting with a delicate veil of powdered sugar and accompanying with fresh berries or a cloud of whipped cream.

Notes

• Customize the chocolate-hazelnut spread by mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt for an elevated flavor profile.
• Choose bread with a sturdy texture like sourdough or brioche to prevent soggy results and ensure a crispy exterior.
• Slice bananas thinly and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture from making the sandwich soggy during grilling.
• For a healthier version, swap regular bread with whole grain or gluten-free alternatives and use a light spread of coconut oil instead of butter.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 32 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 76 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg