The sweet scent of chocolate mingled with the nutty aroma of hazelnuts fills my kitchen as I prepare these delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets. Perfect for those moments when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, these little gems are a showstopper for any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or an elegant dinner party, their alluring taste and stunning presentation will leave your guests asking for seconds!
While crafted with just a handful of ingredients, each tartlet delivers a symphony of flavors, marrying a crisp, cocoa-infused crust with a luscious, creamy filling. And the best part? They’re surprisingly simple to make, ensuring you can indulge your sweet tooth without the stress. With just a dash of care and a sprinkle of love, you can create these delectable treats that perfectly balance sophistication and comfort. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a touch of chocolatey bliss to your table!
Why Love This Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Recipe?
Irresistible Indulgence: These tartlets combine smooth chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts for a flavor explosion in every bite.
Effortlessly Impressive: Delight your guests with a dessert that looks gourmet yet is easy to whip up!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a fancy dinner, these tartlets are sure to steal the show.
Customizable and Fun: Add a layer of fruit preserves or swap hazelnuts for your favorite nuts for a unique twist.
Quick to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Give them a try tonight—you won’t regret this delicious adventure!
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Ingredients
• Perfect for your next dessert adventure!
For the Tartlet Shells
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the tartlet shells; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor and color to the shells; opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper taste.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens the tartlet shells and helps achieve a tender texture; can be replaced with granulated sugar, though it may slightly alter texture.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor in both dough and filling; consider using kosher salt for a balanced taste.
- Unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes) – Supplies essential fat for a flaky crust; replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Large egg yolk – Binds the ingredients in the pie dough; if vegan, try a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Cold water – Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter; ensure it’s cold for a flaky crust.
For the Filling
- Hazelnut spread (such as Nutella) – The star ingredient for a sweet and nutty filling; use dairy-free spread for a vegan option.
- Heavy cream – Adds creaminess to the filling; can be substituted with coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for filling) – Deepens the chocolate flavor; use the same or Dutch-processed cocoa as mentioned above.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the filling; consider almond extract for an exciting twist.
For the Garnish
- Chopped hazelnuts – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor on top; can be omitted or substituted with chopped almonds for variety.
These ingredients are the keys to crafting your delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Recipe. Happy baking!
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect environment for baking the tartlet shells.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Stir until well-blended for a flavorful base.
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Cut in Butter: Add the cold butter cubes into the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
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Add Egg Yolk: Stir in the egg yolk along with the cold water. Mix until a soft dough forms; it should hold together but not be sticky.
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Chill Dough: Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. This helps the crust maintain its shape during baking.
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Roll and Shape: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough. Cut into circles and gently press them into tartlet pans, ensuring they fit snugly.
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Bake: Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling, then bake for 12-15 minutes until firm and set. Let them cool completely after baking.
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Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just simmers—this helps to melt the filling ingredients smoothly.
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Mix Filling: In a bowl, combine hazelnut spread, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Pour the hot cream over the mixture and stir until completely smooth.
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Fill Tartlet Shells: Spoon the luscious filling into the cooled tartlet shells, filling them to the top for a beautiful finish.
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Chill: Place the filled tartlets in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set the filling, creating that delightful creamy texture.
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Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the tops with chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and visual appeal.
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Enjoy: Serve your delightful tartlets chilled or at room temperature, and watch them disappear in no time!
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make these tartlets your own with delightful alternatives that will surely excite your taste buds!
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Nut-Free: Replace hazelnut spread with sunflower seed butter for a creamy, nut-free filling. Your friends with nut allergies will thank you!
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Extra Fruity: Swirl in a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves before adding the chocolate filling for a sweet-tart surprise. Pairing deep chocolate with fruity notes creates a well-rounded taste.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for a surprising heat. This twist elevates the flavor profile to a whole new level.
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Coconut Lover: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a tropical twist, adding a subtle coconut essence that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Alternative Sweeteners: Experiment with maple syrup or agave in place of powdered sugar for a natural sweetness. Just adjust the other liquid ingredients accordingly for the right texture.
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Different Nuts: Swap hazelnuts with pecans or walnuts for a different crunchy texture. Each nut brings its unique flavor, so don’t be afraid to mix and match!
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Zesty Lemon: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus note that beautifully complements the chocolate.
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Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free spread for the filling and coconut oil for the crust, ensuring everyone can indulge in these delicious treats.
Your creativity knows no bounds—use these variations to tailor the chocolate hazelnut experience to your personal palate!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
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Keep Ingredients Cold: Ensure your butter and water are ice-cold when making the tartlet dough to achieve the flakiest crust possible.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent toughness, ensuring your Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets have that tender bite.
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Chill for Best Results: After filling the tartlet shells, chilling them for at least an hour allows the filling to set perfectly and enhances flavor.
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Use a Pastry Cutter: For even incorporation of butter into the dry ingredients, use a pastry cutter. This ensures a perfect crumbly texture for your crust.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize your filling by adding a hint of espresso or a splash of orange liqueur for a delightful twist!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets?
Imagine a delightful setting, where sweet moments unfold over indulgent bites of soft chocolate and nutty goodness.
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh raspberries or strawberries cuts through the richness, balancing each bite beautifully. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the berries for a touch of elegance.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, velvety ice cream serves as a perfect contrast to the crunchy tartlet, making every spoonful a delightful experience. Try a scoop slightly melted for a dreamy combination!
- Coffee or Espresso: Serve alongside a robust cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. The coffee’s bitterness enhances the sweetness, creating a harmonious duo that lingers on the palate.
- Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate, providing a light and aromatic experience after the rich dessert. The herbal notes offer a unique twist that surprises the senses.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle a warm chocolate sauce over each tartlet for an indulgent topping that sends chocolate lovers into bliss. It’s an irresistible addition to the overall experience!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense filling, enhancing the overall texture with delightful creaminess.
- Caramel Drizzle: Sweeten the deal with a drizzle of salted caramel. The sweet-salty contrast elevates every bite, adding an extra layer of flavor complexity that’s truly addictive.
Give these pairings a try, and watch your Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets shine at any gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
Fridge: Store your Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh and ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tartlets in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, gently reheat the tartlets in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps to restore that delightful creamy filling.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the tartlet shells in advance and freeze them, then fill with the chocolate hazelnut mixture just before serving for a fresh taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the tartlet shells up to 3 days in advance. After baking and cooling the shells, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. The filling can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate it separately and stir before filling the shells. When ready to serve, fill the tartlet shells with the chilled filling, garnish with chopped hazelnuts, and let them set for about an hour. This way, you can enjoy a stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right hazelnuts for my tartlets?
Absolutely! When selecting hazelnuts, opt for ones that are whole and uniform in color without any dark spots or blemishes. Fresh hazelnuts should have a slightly firm texture and a pleasant nutty aroma. If you can, buy them raw and toast them lightly at home to enhance their flavor, but make sure they are completely cool before adding them as a garnish.
How should I store my chocolate hazelnut tartlets?
Very good question! Store your Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delicious flavor—just pull them out to enjoy whenever cravings strike!
Can I freeze the chocolate hazelnut tartlets?
Definitely! You can freeze the tartlets for longer storage. To do this, place the filled tartlets on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy!
What should I do if my tartlet shells are too tough?
If your tartlet shells turn out tough, it might be due to overmixing the dough. For ideal texture, mix just until everything comes together. You can try again and remember to keep your butter and water cold, as this will create a beautifully flaky crust with the right handling.
Can I use a different type of nut spread?
Absolutely! While hazelnut spread is traditional for these tartlets, feel free to experiment with other nut butters like almond or even peanut butter. Just keep in mind that each will impart a slightly different flavor, but the same delightful texture and richness will shine through!
Can I make these tartlets vegan?
Very much so! To make vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream, the butter with coconut oil, and use a dairy-free hazelnut spread. Additionally, replace the egg yolk with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water), and you’re good to go! Enjoy the delicious results!
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Recipe for Irresistible Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect environment for baking the tartlet shells.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold butter cubes into the dry mixture and work it into the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until a soft dough forms; it should hold together but not be sticky.
- Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 30 minutes.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough, cut into circles, and press them into tartlet pans.
- Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling, then bake for 12-15 minutes until firm and set.
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just simmers.
- In a bowl, combine the hazelnut spread, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Pour the hot cream over the mixture and stir until smooth.
- Spoon the filling into the cooled tartlet shells, filling them to the top.
- Chill the filled tartlets in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Before serving, sprinkle the tops with chopped hazelnuts for added crunch.
- Serve your tartlets chilled or at room temperature.