Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your dessert game! This isn't just another chocolate recipe – it's a decadent chocolate hazelnut creation that promises to transport you to a world of pure culinary bliss. Imagine a dessert so rich, so incredibly irresistible, that it will have your friends and family begging for seconds (and the recipe)!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once toasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, place them in a clean kitchen towel and rub them together to remove the skins. It’s okay if some skins remain; just do your best to remove the majority.
- In a food processor, combine the toasted hazelnuts and granulated sugar. Pulse until the mixture becomes a fine powder, resembling hazelnut flour. Be careful not to over-process, or you will end up with hazelnut butter.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the cocoa powder and salt. Add the hazelnut-sugar mixture to the bowl and mix until well combined.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Once the cream mixture is warm, gradually pour it into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
- Prepare a baking dish or a square cake pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. Pour the chocolate hazelnut batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. Once cooled, you can cut it into squares or bars for serving.
- For an extra touch, serve the chocolate hazelnut treats with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Thing!
Tips
- Toast Hazelnuts Like a Pro: The key to intense flavor is perfectly toasted hazelnuts. Watch them carefully and remove from the oven the moment they become fragrant and golden brown.
- Skin Removal Hack: Don't stress about removing every single hazelnut skin. A few remaining skins can add extra depth and rustic charm to your dessert.
- Mixing Mastery: When combining dry and wet ingredients, stir gently but thoroughly. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, while undermixing can create uneven flavor distribution.
- Baking Precision: Use the toothpick test to ensure perfect doneness. A few moist crumbs are perfect – completely clean means you've overcooked.
- Serving Suggestions: Elevate this dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar. For an extra luxurious touch, serve warm with a drizzle of fresh cream.
- Storage Tip: Store your chocolate hazelnut creation in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
