Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

I remember the very first time I brought a homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Tart to a family gathering. My oldest, Leo, who usually just picks at anything that isn’t pizza, took one bite, and his eyes widened. “Mom, what *is* this magic?” he asked, completely mesmerized by the rich, decadent chocolate and the irresistible crunch of hazelnuts.

That moment truly solidified my belief that food, especially a dessert as special as this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, brings people together and creates beautiful memories. As a mom of three, I constantly search for recipes that feel fancy but are genuinely simple to make, and this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart absolutely fits the bill. It’s comforting, satisfying, and shockingly easy to prepare, making it a perfect treat for any occasion, big or small.

This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a hug in tart form, a showstopper that always gets rave reviews. Get ready to fall in love with making your own Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart Recipe

You will absolutely adore this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. First, its incredible flavor profile perfectly balances rich, dark chocolate with the nutty warmth of toasted hazelnuts. It offers sophistication without any complicated techniques.

Every bite of this homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Tart delivers pure bliss. Second, despite its elegant appearance, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. Even if you consider yourself a novice baker, you can confidently create a stunning Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

Third, this delightful dessert is a fantastic crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it at a dinner party, a holiday celebration, or a simple family meal, everyone will ask for the recipe for your perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

Furthermore, this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart uses wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, aligning perfectly with my philosophy of simple, nourishing food. Finally, the texture contrast between the crisp, buttery crust and the silky smooth filling makes this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart utterly irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredient	Quantity
For the Crust:
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups
Granulated sugar	¼ cup
Salt	½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed	½ cup (1 stick)
Ice water	3-5 tablespoons
For the Filling:
Heavy cream	1 ¼ cups
Semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped	8 ounces
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Roasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped	¾ cup
Pinch of sea salt
For Garnish (Optional):
Additional chopped hazelnuts
Dusting of cocoa powder

Substitutions & Variations

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart recipe offers wonderful flexibility for different preferences or dietary needs. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste. For instance, if you cannot find hazelnuts or have an allergy, substitute almonds or pecans for a delicious alternative; the fundamental “Chocolate Nut Tart” concept remains.

You could even use pistachios for a vibrant color and distinct flavor in your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart variation. For the chocolate, while semi-sweet provides a perfect balance, feel free to experiment. Use dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for a more intense, less sweet Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, or milk chocolate for a milder, sweeter treat.

If you prefer a richer, more complex flavor, try adding a tablespoon of espresso powder to the chocolate filling. This enhances the chocolate notes without making your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart taste like coffee. For a dairy-free Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, substitute full-fat coconut milk (from a can, not a carton) for the heavy cream, and use a dairy-free chocolate and vegan butter for the crust and filling.

The coconut milk will lend a subtle tropical note, complementing the chocolate beautifully. You can also make a gluten-free Chocolate Hazelnut Tart by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the crust. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for elasticity.

Additionally, consider adding a layer of raspberry jam or caramel over the pre-baked crust before pouring in the chocolate filling for an extra burst of flavor in your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before serving also wonderfully contrasts the sweetness of this elegant Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart recipe offers wonderful flexibility for different preferences or dietary needs. Consider trying the Chocolate Éclair Dessert (No Bake Layered Treat) for another delightful dessert option that can be easily customized.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Crafting this beautiful Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a rewarding process. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result.

1. Prepare the Tart Crust:
* In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
* Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.

* Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
* Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chill time helps create a flaky crust for your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

2. Blind Bake the Crust:
* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
* On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.

* Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough gently into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough.

* Prick the bottom of the crust all over with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
* Bake for 15 minutes.

Remove the parchment paper and weights, then bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. This pre-baking ensures a crisp base for your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.
* Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Make the Chocolate Hazelnut Filling:
* Place the finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate, 2 tablespoons of butter, and a pinch of sea salt in a medium heatproof bowl.
* In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer around the edges.

Do not boil.
* Pour the hot cream over the chocolate mixture. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt.

* Add the vanilla extract. Whisk gently from the center outwards until the mixture is completely smooth, glossy, and well combined. This creates the rich base for your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.
* Stir in the roughly chopped roasted hazelnuts.

4. Assemble and Chill the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart:
* Pour the warm chocolate hazelnut filling into the cooled, pre-baked tart crust.
* Gently tap the tart pan on the counter a few times to release any air bubbles and ensure an even surface.

* Refrigerate the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart for at least 3-4 hours, or until the filling is completely set. For best results, chill overnight.

5. Serve:
* Once firm, carefully remove the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart from the tart pan.
* Garnish with additional chopped hazelnuts or a dusting of cocoa powder, if desired.
* Slice and serve this magnificent Chocolate Hazelnut Tart at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Pro Tips for Success

Achieving a truly spectacular Chocolate Hazelnut Tart comes down to a few key techniques. If you’re looking for another amazing chocolate dessert to perfect your skills, check out the Chocolate Chess Pie Southern Recipe.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Proper storage ensures your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart remains delicious for days. Once the tart completely sets, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

For optimal flavor and texture, I actually prefer my Chocolate Hazelnut Tart slightly chilled or at room temperature, so I often pull it from the fridge about 30 minutes before serving. Freezing is also an option for this sturdy Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. You can freeze the whole tart or individual slices.

Wrap the completely cooled tart (or slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. This protects it from freezer burn. It will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month.

To thaw, simply transfer the frozen Chocolate Hazelnut Tart to the refrigerator overnight. Avoid reheating the entire tart, as this can affect the texture of the ganache and crust. If you desire a slightly warm experience for a leftover slice, you can gently microwave it for 10-15 seconds, but generally, this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart tastes best when enjoyed cool.

What to Serve With This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart Recipe

This rich and elegant Chocolate Hazelnut Tart pairs beautifully with several accompaniments, enhancing its delightful flavors. For a fresh twist to your dessert offerings, you might also enjoy the Chocolate Cream Pie Without Eggs.

FAQs

Can I make this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can prepare and assemble the entire tart, then chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

The flavors actually deepen beautifully over time. Just cover it loosely to prevent any dryness.

What kind of hazelnuts should I use for this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart?

For the best flavor in your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, use raw, unsalted hazelnuts. You will toast them yourself, which intensifies their nutty taste and makes their skins easier to remove. Pre-roasted hazelnuts often lack the fresh, vibrant flavor of freshly toasted ones.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Blind baking the crust is the most critical step to prevent a soggy bottom for your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. Ensure you bake the crust until it’s lightly golden and feels dry. Also, make sure the crust cools completely before you pour in the warm chocolate filling. This allows it to set properly and maintain its crispness.

Can I make this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart gluten-free?

Yes, you can certainly make a gluten-free Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust recipe with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for optimal texture. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.

Is this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart suitable for parties?

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is absolutely perfect for parties! Its elegant appearance, rich flavor, and make-ahead convenience make it an ideal dessert for entertaining. It consistently impresses guests and disappears quickly from any dessert table.

Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a delightful dessert that combines a rich chocolate filling with a crisp hazelnut crust, providing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This sweet treat has become a favorite in many cultures, showcasing the versatility of chocolate and nuts in desserts, making it a beloved choice for dinner parties and holiday gatherings alike. Learn more about this popular dessert on its comprehensive Tart page.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This information is provided for general guidance for your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480 kcal
Total Fat	35 g
Saturated Fat	20 g
Cholesterol	75 mg
Sodium	100 mg
Total Carbohydrates	38 g
Dietary Fiber	4 g
Sugars	20 g
Protein	6 g

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