There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of chocolate wafting through your kitchen, igniting the senses and bringing a smile to your face. As the weather cools down and the holidays approach, I found myself yearning for a comforting dessert that was both indulgent and simple to prepare. Enter Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets—miniature delights that perfectly marry the lusciousness of hazelnut spread with a buttery cocoa crust.
One sweet afternoon, while experimenting with leftover ingredients, these delightful tartlets came to life. Their elegant appearance belies the fact that they come together in less than an hour, making them ideal for gatherings or simply to enjoy on a cozy night in. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these tartlets will impress your friends and family without sending you into a baking frenzy. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this easy and delicious chocolatey treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
- These Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets are not only easy to make, but they also deliver a mouthwatering flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
- The delightful combination of rich hazelnut spread and a buttery cocoa crust creates a unique taste experience that is simply irresistible.
- Their visual appeal adds an elegant touch to any dessert table, making them perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
- Plus, with a total preparation time of under an hour, you can whip these up quickly without any fuss, making them a fantastic time-saver for busy days.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Ingredients
For the Crust
• All-purpose flour – this forms the base of our tartlet shell, providing structure.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – rich and depth-adding, it gives the crust a delightful chocolate flavor.
• Powdered sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crust.
• Salt – a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter – cold and cubed, it creates a flaky texture when mixed into the dry ingredients.
• Large egg yolk – helps bind the crust together, giving it richness.
• Cold water – add gradually to bring the dough together without making it tough.
For the Filling
• Hazelnut spread – the star ingredient! This ensures a creamy, decadent center that delights your taste buds.
• Heavy cream – used to create a silky-smooth filling when combined with hazelnut spread.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – enhances the chocolate flavor in the filling for extra decadence.
• Vanilla extract – a splash adds warmth and depth to the chocolate filling.
For the Garnish
• Chopped hazelnuts – sprinkle on top for added crunch and a beautiful finish to your tartlets.
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a crispy crust as your tartlets bake.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. This creates the flavorful base for your tartlet crust.
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Incorporate Butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the dry mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring a flaky texture.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the egg yolk. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together nicely.
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Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping your crust tender and flaky.
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Roll and Cut: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut out circles and press them into a tartlet pan or muffin tin, making lovely little shells.
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Bake: Prick the bottoms with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes or until firm. They should be set and slightly firm to the touch. Let them cool completely before filling.
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Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Your kitchen will start smelling heavenly!
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Mix Filling Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the hazelnut spread, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Pour the hot cream over the mixture and stir until smooth and well blended.
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Fill Tartlets: Spoon the chocolate hazelnut filling into the cooled tartlet shells, filling them generously to the top for that delightful gooey goodness.
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Chill to Set: Refrigerate the filled tartlets for at least 1 hour to allow them to set properly. This waiting time enhances the flavors beautifully.
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Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the tops with chopped hazelnuts for added crunch and a lovely finishing touch.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets chilled or at room temperature. These treats are a true delight to savor!
Optional: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlet Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful adaptations that will take your tartlets to new flavor heights!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy. The texture may vary slightly, but you’ll still savor every bite!
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Nut-Free: Use a seed butter like sunflower seed butter instead of hazelnut spread for a nut-free version. This twist maintains the rich flavor while catering to those with nut allergies.
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Dark Chocolate: Switch to dark chocolate hazelnut spread for an elevated, intense chocolate flavor. It will enhance the richness and add depth to every tartlet.
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Fruit Flavored: Add a layer of raspberry or cherry preserves before filling the tartlets for a fruity surprise. The fruity acidity will balance the sweetness, making each bite a burst of flavors!
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder into the filling for a warm, spiced twist. This will elevate the flavor profile, wrapping your taste buds in a cozy embrace.
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Vegan-Friendly: Replace butter with coconut oil and heavy cream with coconut cream for a vegan version. This change will still yield creamy, mouthwatering tartlets everyone can enjoy.
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Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the filling for a fresh, minty flavor. It’s a delightful twist sure to awaken your senses!
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Cheesecake Filling: Mix softened cream cheese with the hazelnut spread for a cream-cheesy texture and flavor. This creates a delightful twist that adds a rich creaminess to your tartlets!
What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures that will surely impress your guests.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate, adding a refreshing element to each bite. A medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries creates a vibrant, inviting plate.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the richness of the tartlets while adding a delightful coolness that melts in your mouth.
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Espresso or Coffee: Pairing these tartlets with a hot cup of espresso enhances the deep chocolate flavors, offering a moment of indulgence that’s perfect for coffee enthusiasts. The slight bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a luscious texture, making each bite feel even more indulgent. A drizzle of chocolate sauce on top can elevate the presentation!
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Hazelnut Coffee: Embrace the nutty flavor profile by serving a warm cup of hazelnut coffee on the side. It echoes the nutty notes in the tartlets, creating a harmonious and comforting experience.
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Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea refreshes the palate after enjoying these rich desserts, making for a cleansing finish. The herbal notes of mint add a nice twist to the overall flavor journey.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: For added decadence, drizzle some rich chocolate sauce over the tartlets right before serving. It creates an eye-catching presentation and intensifies the chocolate flavor.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free option adds a tropical twist with its light texture and subtle sweetness. The coconut undertones beautifully complement the chocolate hazelnut combination.
For a truly indulgent dessert experience, mix and match these ideas to find your perfect pairing!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tartlet crust up to 3 days in advance by making the dough, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it until you’re ready to roll it out and bake. Additionally, you can whip up the chocolate hazelnut filling and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your treats, simply fill the cooled tartlet shells with the prepared filling, chill them for at least 1 hour, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts. With these make-ahead tips, you can have delicious, stress-free dessert ready to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
Room Temperature: Store unfilled tartlet shells in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them crisp and ready for your next dessert project.
Fridge: Filled Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets should be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Keep them covered to preserve their freshness and creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze unfilled tartlet shells in a tightly sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before filling.
Reheating: If desired, serve the tartlets at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven for a few minutes—just enough to take off the chill while keeping that rich chocolate filling delightful!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets, ensure your butter is extremely cold for a flaky crust.
- A common mistake is overmixing the dough, so mix just until combined to avoid toughness.
- Remember to refrigerate the dough for the full 30 minutes to allow the gluten to relax, which results in a tender shell.
- Bake the tartlet shells until they are slightly firm to the touch, as this will prevent them from becoming soggy once filled.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets Recipe FAQs
What type of hazelnut spread should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! A high-quality hazelnut spread, such as Nutella, is ideal for providing that creamy consistency and rich flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, there are also natural versions available that do not contain added sugars or preservatives, which can be found at most grocery stores.
How should I store my Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets?
For best results, you should refrigerate filled Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure they’re covered properly to maintain their fresh taste and creamy texture. If storing unfilled tartlet shells, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfilled tartlet shells, simply place them in a tightly sealed freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the fridge overnight before filling. If you prefer to freeze filled tartlets, wait until they are fully chilled, then place in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month, but the texture might change slightly upon thawing.
What if my tartlet crust is too crumbly?
No worries! If you find that your tartlet crust is too crumbly, it’s usually a sign that the dough didn’t incorporate well. To fix this, you can try adding an additional teaspoon of cold water at a time, mixing gently until it comes together. Remember, overworking the dough can lead to toughness, so mix just until you see a cohesive ball forming.
Can I make these tartlets gluten-free?
Very! To make gluten-free Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You may also want to add a bit of xanthan gum, which helps give structure to the crust. Follow the same measurements, and enjoy the treats without gluten worry!
Are Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets safe for pets?
It’s important to note that chocolate can be toxic to pets, especially dogs. If you have pets at home, be sure to keep these tartlets out of their reach to ensure their safety. Always check ingredients if you’re sharing any bites with furry friends; better safe than sorry!
Chocolate Hazelnut Tartlets
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.5 cup Powdered sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-4 tablespoons Cold water add gradually
- 0.75 cup Hazelnut spread
- 0.5 cup Heavy cream heat until simmering
- 1 tablespoon Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 0.25 cup Chopped hazelnuts for sprinkling
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Add cold butter cubes to the dry mixture and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the egg yolk and gradually add cold water until the dough comes together.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick, cut circles, and press into tartlet pans.
- Prick the bottoms with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes. Let them cool completely.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering.
- In a separate bowl, combine hazelnut spread, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Pour the hot cream over and stir until smooth.
- Fill the cooled tartlet shells with the chocolate hazelnut filling.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to set.
- Before serving, sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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