Introduction
Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts are the perfect balance of rich, velvety chocolate and the crunchy, nutty texture of hazelnuts. This simple yet decadent treat brings together two beloved ingredients in a way that is irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack, a homemade gift, or an elegant addition to a dessert table, these chocolate-covered hazelnuts fit the bill perfectly. The combination of smooth chocolate and roasted hazelnuts provides a mouthwatering contrast that delights the taste buds with every bite.
Making Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts at home is incredibly easy and requires minimal ingredients. With a few simple steps, you can create a batch of these irresistible treats that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, this recipe offers flexibility to suit your personal taste. Plus, with the added bonus of healthy fats and protein from the hazelnuts, this treat is not only delicious but also offers a satisfying crunch.
Why You’ll Love Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of smooth chocolate and roasted hazelnuts creates a rich, indulgent flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
- Crunchy Texture: The roasted hazelnuts add a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the silky smoothness of the chocolate.
- Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious and luxurious treat that will impress anyone who tries it.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences, using dark, milk, or white chocolate, or even adding extra flavoring like sea salt or spices.
- Perfect for Gifting: Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts make an excellent homemade gift for holidays, birthdays, or just as a thoughtful gesture to friends and family.
- Great Snack or Dessert: Whether you enjoy them as a sweet snack or as part of a dessert spread, these treats are versatile and satisfying.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 30-40 chocolate-covered hazelnuts (depending on size of hazelnuts and chocolate coating)
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 80-100 calories per serving (based on 2-3 hazelnuts per serving)
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 80-100 kcal
- Fat: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 6-8g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugar: 5-6g
Ingredients
For the Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts:
- 1 cup hazelnuts, shelled and roasted
- 1 ½ cups chocolate (dark, milk, or white chocolate – your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (for smooth coating)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for extra flavor)
- Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Hazelnuts (If Not Already Roasted)
If your hazelnuts aren’t pre-roasted, you’ll need to do this step. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them for about 10-12 minutes, or until the skins begin to crack and the nuts turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
Once roasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. After cooling, place the hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub them to remove the skins. Don’t worry if some of the skins don’t come off completely; a little bit of skin left on is perfectly fine.
2. Melt the Chocolate
While the hazelnuts are cooling, you can begin melting the chocolate. Break or chop the chocolate into small, even pieces to ensure it melts smoothly. You can melt the chocolate in one of two ways:
- Double Boiler Method: Place the chocolate pieces in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. If you prefer a quicker method, you can microwave the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted.
- Microwave Method: Place the chocolate pieces in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir between each interval to ensure even melting. Once the chocolate is smooth, stir in the vegetable oil or coconut oil to give the coating a silky texture.
Optional: Add vanilla extract to the melted chocolate for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Dip the Hazelnuts in Chocolate
Once the hazelnuts have cooled, it’s time to dip them into the chocolate. Use a toothpick, fork, or skewer to hold each hazelnut and dip it into the melted chocolate. Make sure the hazelnut is fully coated in chocolate. Tap the toothpick or fork gently against the side of the bowl to allow excess chocolate to drip off.
If you like, you can dip the hazelnuts a second time to create a thicker chocolate coating. Be sure to let the chocolate set slightly before dipping again if you’re going for a double layer of chocolate.
4. Place the Hazelnuts on a Baking Sheet
After dipping each hazelnut in chocolate, transfer it to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process until all hazelnuts are coated. If desired, sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of each hazelnut for a sweet-and-salty flavor combination.
5. Chill the Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts
Once all the hazelnuts are dipped and placed on the baking sheet, refrigerate them for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened. This step ensures the chocolate coating stays firm and crunchy.
If you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing the hazelnuts in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has fully set, your Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts are ready to enjoy! If desired, you can garnish them with finely chopped hazelnuts for added texture and visual appeal. Store the chocolate-covered hazelnuts in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
These treats are great for snacking, adding to gift baskets, or serving as part of a dessert platter.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: The quality of the chocolate you use will significantly affect the flavor of the chocolate-covered hazelnuts. Choose high-quality chocolate, such as a good dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa, for a more intense flavor. Milk chocolate is a sweeter option, and white chocolate offers a creamy, less intense contrast.
- Smooth Chocolate Coating: The addition of a small amount of oil, such as vegetable or coconut oil, to the melted chocolate helps create a smoother, glossier finish. It also makes the chocolate easier to work with when dipping the hazelnuts.
- Double-Dip for Thicker Coating: If you like your chocolate-covered hazelnuts to have a thicker coating, dip them twice. Let the first layer set before dipping the hazelnuts again for a double layer of chocolate.
- Optional Add-ins: You can customize the flavor by adding a pinch of sea salt, cinnamon, or even a splash of liqueur (such as hazelnut liqueur or vanilla extract) to the melted chocolate. These additions enhance the flavor profile and add a unique twist to the treats.
- Chill Time: Allow plenty of time for the chocolate to set and harden in the refrigerator. If you’re in a rush, you can place the hazelnuts in the freezer for a quicker setting time.
Variations of Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts
- Dark Chocolate Hazelnuts: For a richer, more intense flavor, use dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content. The bitterness of dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the hazelnuts.
- Milk Chocolate Hazelnuts: If you prefer a sweeter, creamier option, use milk chocolate for a smooth and mellow chocolate coating.
- White Chocolate Hazelnuts: For a sweeter and more decadent treat, coat the hazelnuts in white chocolate. You can also add a touch of lemon zest or orange zest to give it a fresh citrus twist.
- Hazelnuts with Sea Salt: Sprinkle a tiny bit of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets to create a sweet-and-salty contrast. This simple addition enhances the flavors and makes the treat even more irresistible.
- Hazelnuts with Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the melted chocolate for a warm, spicy kick. This variation is especially great around the holidays or for those who enjoy a touch of spice with their sweets.
- Hazelnut Truffles: For an extra luxurious treat, after coating the hazelnuts in chocolate, roll them in cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts to create a truffle-like texture. You can also add a ganache filling for an indulgent center.
Storage and Shelf Life
Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. If you live in a particularly warm climate or are planning to keep them for longer, storing them in the refrigerator will help the chocolate maintain its shape and prevent melting.
If you’ve made a large batch and want to store them for even longer, you can freeze the chocolate-covered hazelnuts. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts
Pair your chocolate-covered hazelnuts with complementary treats to elevate the experience:
- Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavor of chocolate pairs wonderfully with the boldness of coffee or espresso. The crunch of the hazelnuts adds a delightful contrast to the smoothness of your drink.
- Cheese Platter: Create an elegant cheese platter that includes dark chocolate-covered hazelnuts, cheeses like brie, goat cheese, or aged cheddar, and some fresh fruits such as figs, pears, and grapes.
- Dessert Platter: Chocolate-covered hazelnuts are perfect for a dessert spread. Add them alongside cookies, brownies, fruit tarts, or mini cheesecakes to create a visually appealing and delicious dessert table.
Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
A delightful treat, roasted hazelnuts dipped in smooth, rich chocolate, creating the perfect sweet and nutty bite-sized snack. Ideal for gifting or satisfying a chocolate craving.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts:
- 1 cup whole hazelnuts (about 20–25 nuts)
- 8 oz (225g) high-quality chocolate (dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (optional, for extra smoothness)
- Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling)
- Chopped hazelnuts or cocoa powder (optional, for coating)
Instructions
1. Toast the Hazelnuts
The first step in making chocolate-covered hazelnuts is to toast the hazelnuts, which enhances their natural flavor and makes them easier to peel. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven and toast for 10-12 minutes, or until the skins begin to crack and the nuts become fragrant. Make sure to stir the hazelnuts halfway through the toasting process to ensure even cooking.
Once toasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Place the hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub them together to remove the skins. Some hazelnuts may still have a little bit of skin left on them, which is perfectly fine. The skins tend to loosen easily after toasting, so this step should be quick.
2. Melt the Chocolate
While the hazelnuts are cooling, it’s time to melt the chocolate. You can melt the chocolate using a double boiler or the microwave:
- Double Boiler Method: Place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water. Stir the chocolate occasionally until it is fully melted and smooth. This method helps prevent the chocolate from burning and ensures a smooth texture.
- Microwave Method: Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn easily.
If desired, add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the chocolate to make it extra smooth and shiny. This step is optional, but it helps give the chocolate a more professional, glossy finish once it sets.
3. Dip the Hazelnuts in Chocolate
Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, it’s time to coat the hazelnuts. Use a fork or a skewer to dip each hazelnut into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing the coated hazelnut onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray.
Repeat this process for all of the hazelnuts, making sure they are evenly coated. If you prefer a thicker coating of chocolate, you can dip each hazelnut a second time after the first layer has cooled and set.
4. Set the Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts
After all the hazelnuts are coated in chocolate, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden. The cooling process helps the chocolate set, creating that perfect crisp shell around the hazelnut.
Once the chocolate has fully set, you can choose to leave the hazelnuts as they are or add additional toppings for extra flavor and texture.
5. Optional Coatings and Toppings
For added texture and flavor, you can coat the chocolate-covered hazelnuts in various toppings:
- Chopped Hazelnuts: After dipping the hazelnuts in chocolate, roll them in finely chopped hazelnuts for a crunchy exterior. This gives the treats extra nuttiness and a bit of visual appeal.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt over the chocolate-covered hazelnuts immediately after dipping them in chocolate. The salty-sweet combination is irresistible and adds a gourmet touch.
- Cocoa Powder: You can also dust the chocolate-covered hazelnuts with cocoa powder for a rich, velvety finish. This option is perfect for dark chocolate lovers who want to enhance the chocolatey flavor.
- Sprinkles or Colored Sugar: For festive occasions, you can roll the chocolate-covered hazelnuts in colorful sprinkles or sugar crystals for a fun and eye-catching treat.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has fully set and the hazelnuts are coated, they’re ready to enjoy! Serve them as a snack, add them to dessert platters, or pack them into small bags for a homemade gift. These chocolate-covered hazelnuts are perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a special event.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 70-80 kcal
- Fat: 5-6g
- Carbohydrates: 6-7g
- Protein: 1-2g
Conclusion
Chocolate-Covered Hazelnuts are an easy-to-make treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the delightful crunch of hazelnuts. With their satisfying texture and indulgent taste, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you make them for a special occasion, give them as a gift, or simply enjoy them as a snack, they’re always a hit. With endless variations and customization options, this recipe offers a versatile and delicious way to enjoy the perfect combination of chocolate and hazelnuts.
