Chocolate Hazelnut Tart Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love the combination of nuts and chocolate, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. This dessert features a crisp, buttery tart shell filled with a silky rich chocolate ganache, crowned with toasted hazelnuts that add the perfect crunch and nutty aroma. It’s decadent yet surprisingly simple to make, making it a perfect choice for impressing friends, family, or just treating yourself to a little slice of heaven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in balancing flavor and texture, coming together to create something truly special.

• Tart shell: A buttery, crisp base that holds the luscious filling and adds a delightful texture contrast.
• 200 g dark chocolate: The heart of the ganache, providing a rich and intense chocolate flavor.
• 150 ml cream: Helps achieve that smooth, silky consistency in the filling, making it indulgently creamy.
• 1 tsp vanilla: Adds a subtle warmth and depth, enhancing the chocolate’s flavor beautifully.
• 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts: Offers a toasty crunch and nutty fragrance that perfectly complements the chocolate.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Ganache

Start by gently heating the cream until it’s just about to simmer. Then, pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate. Stir slowly until you get a smooth, glossy ganache that’s thick but pourable. This step is where the richness of the tart really builds, so patience and gentle stirring pay off.

Step 2: Add the Vanilla

Once your ganache is smooth, stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract. This small but crucial addition brightens the flavors and gives the ganache a lovely aromatic hint that makes it feel more luxurious.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

Pour the velvety ganache evenly into your prepared tart shell. Make sure to spread it gently so it settles in all corners without air bubbles, ensuring a smooth top surface. At this point, the tart is starting to look irresistibly inviting.

Step 4: Top with Toasted Hazelnuts

Generously sprinkle the toasted hazelnuts over the ganache. Their crunch and toasted aroma provide a perfect contrast to the soft, rich filling, elevating every bite. Place the tart in the fridge and chill for a few hours or until the ganache is set.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

Garnishes

To make the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart presentation shine, consider adding a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few delicate chocolate shavings on top. A few fresh mint leaves can also add a refreshing pop of color that contrasts wonderfully with the deep chocolate tones.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances the tart’s richness and rounds out the dessert experience splendidly. Fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, add a tart contrast that enhances the chocolate and nut flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart on a rustic wooden board with a scattering of extra hazelnuts can bring a charming, cozy feel to your dessert spread. You can also customize slices by adding a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for grown-up sophistication.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay deliciously fresh for 2 to 3 days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties or casual dinners.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t ideal for maintaining the perfect texture of the ganache, you can freeze the tart for up to one month if necessary. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to protect it from freezer burn, and thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

This tart is best enjoyed chilled, so reheating isn’t recommended as it can alter the texture of the ganache and the shell. If you prefer a softer ganache, let slices sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off gently.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Using milk chocolate will result in a sweeter and lighter ganache. Just keep in mind it will change the richness and intensity of the tart, making it milder but no less delicious.

Do I need to toast the hazelnuts myself?

Toasting hazelnuts fresh at home is highly recommended because it brings out their oils and gives a deeper nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. You can toast them quickly in a dry pan or oven.

Can I make the tart shell from scratch?

Definitely! While store-bought tart shells save time, homemade shells allow you to customize flavor and texture. A classic buttery shortcrust pastry works wonderfully here and adds an extra touch of love.

How long does it take for the ganache to set?

The ganache usually sets within 2 to 3 hours in the fridge. However, for best results, it’s great to leave it overnight to ensure a firm yet creamy texture.

Is this tart suitable for special occasions?

Yes! With its elegant look and rich, irresistible flavor, the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is perfect for celebrations, dinner parties, and holidays. It’s impressive but never intimidating.

Final Thoughts

The Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is one of those desserts that feels like a hug in edible form — rich, comforting, and utterly delightful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you want to indulge a little, this tart never fails to impress and satisfy. Give it a try and discover how such simple ingredients can come together to create unforgettable magic on your palate.