We absolutely love chocolate covered hazelnuts for their irresistible crunch and decadent flavor that blends smooth chocolate with toasty hazelnuts. This simple treat draws inspiration from European confectionery traditions where nuts and chocolate have long been a match made in heaven making it a favorite for homemade gifts or indulgent snacking.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker we’ll show you how easy it is to whip up this delightful recipe right in your kitchen. It’s not just tasty—it’s a fun way to elevate everyday ingredients into something special.
Ingredients
For our Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts recipe, we start with simple, high-quality ingredients that deliver the perfect balance of crisp hazelnuts and rich, velvety chocolate. These components, ordered as they’ll be used in preparation, ensure a straightforward process for creating this irresistible treat.
- Hazelnuts: 2 cups raw hazelnuts, toasted for 10 minutes in a 350°F oven to enhance their nutty flavor and satisfying crunch.
- Dark Chocolate: 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), chopped into small pieces for even melting and a smooth coating.
- Coconut Oil: 1 tablespoon refined coconut oil, melted to help the chocolate achieve a glossy finish and prevent it from seizing.
- Sea Salt: ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, added optionally for a subtle enhancement that balances the sweetness and highlights the hazelnuts’ earthy notes.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for this chocolate covered hazelnuts recipe, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools to ensure a seamless preparation process. Having the right equipment on hand makes toasting, melting, and coating straightforward, allowing us to achieve that irresistible crisp exterior and rich, glossy finish.
To keep things organized, we’ve compiled a list of the key tools below. We recommend selecting durable, kitchen-grade items to enhance efficiency and safety.
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy rimmed baking sheet is crucial for toasting the raw hazelnuts evenly. We suggest one that’s at least 13×18 inches to accommodate 2 cups without overcrowding, promoting uniform golden browning.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Use this to line the baking sheet, preventing the hazelnuts from sticking and making cleanup effortless. It’s a simple must-have for achieving clean, mess-free toasting.
- Oven or Toaster Oven: Essential for toasting the hazelnuts at 350°F. We opt for a reliable oven to enhance the nuts’ natural earthy flavors through gentle heat.
- Double Boiler or Microwave-Safe Bowl: This tool is key for melting the 8 ounces of dark chocolate smoothly. A double boiler prevents scorching, while a microwave-safe bowl offers a quicker alternative for that velvety texture.
- Heatproof Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring the chocolate mixture, including the 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. We use this to ensure even blending and avoid lumps, resulting in a perfectly glossy coating.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is vital—use these for the ingredients like the optional ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Precision here guarantees balanced flavors in our chocolate covered hazelnuts.
- Cooling Rack or Plate: After coating, a cooling rack allows the treats to set properly, promoting airflow for a snackable crunch without sogginess.
With these tools, we’re set to transition smoothly into the preparation steps, transforming our ingredients into a delightful homemade treat.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools prepared, we guide you through creating our irresistible chocolate covered hazelnuts step by step. Follow these instructions for a treat that boasts a perfect crunch and rich chocolate flavor.
Prepare the Hazelnuts
First, we preheat our oven to 350°F to enhance the hazelnuts’ nutty aroma and flavor. Spread the 2 cups of raw hazelnuts evenly on a sturdy rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper then toast them in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes. We stir the hazelnuts halfway through to ensure even browning watching closely until they turn golden and release a fragrant, earthy scent that fills the kitchen.
Melt the Chocolate
Next, we melt the chocolate to achieve a smooth glossy coating that perfectly complements the hazelnuts. Place the 8 ounces of chopped high-quality dark chocolate and 1 tablespoon of melted refined coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. If using a double boiler, heat over simmering water stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula until fully melted and silky. For the microwave method, heat in 30-second intervals stirring between each until smooth then stir in the optional ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt to balance the sweetness and amplify the chocolate’s depth.
Coat the Hazelnuts
We coat the hazelnuts for that satisfying mix of crisp texture and decadent chocolate. Dip each toasted hazelnut into the melted chocolate mixture using a spoon or fork ensuring an even layer that captures the nuts’ warm essence. Gently tap off any excess chocolate then place the coated hazelnuts on the lined baking sheet spacing them apart to avoid sticking as they set creating a delightful contrast of crunchy hazelnuts enveloped in rich velvety chocolate.
Let Them Set
Finally, we let the coated hazelnuts set to lock in their glossy finish and firm texture. Arrange the hazelnuts on a cooling rack or the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes or refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, we enjoy the treats’ satisfying snap and intense flavors that make them perfect for gifting or snacking.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As we dive deeper into enjoying our chocolate covered hazelnuts, let’s explore practical ways to prepare them in advance and store them to maintain that irresistible crunchy texture and rich, nutty flavor. These tips ensure we can savor this treat without compromising quality.
Make-Ahead Tips
We recommend planning ahead to simplify the process, especially for gifting or events. Here’s how we can prepare components in advance:
- Toast the hazelnuts: Roast them up to 2 days ahead. After cooling completely, store in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their fragrant, golden essence.
- Melt and coat in batches: Prepare the melted chocolate mixture a few hours before dipping. Keep it covered and warm in a double boiler to avoid seizing, allowing us to dip hazelnuts quickly when ready.
- Assemble fully: Make the entire batch up to 1 day ahead. Once the chocolate sets, transfer to a sealed container. This keeps the smooth, glossy coating intact for fresh enjoyment.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to preserving the decadent balance of chocolate and hazelnuts. We suggest these methods to extend shelf life while keeping the treat crisp and flavorful.
| Storage Method | Duration | Conditions and Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent melting and maintain crunch. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Place in an airtight container to avoid moisture, which can cause condensation and soften the chocolate. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture, ensuring the nutty aroma remains vibrant. |
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we ensure our chocolate covered hazelnuts stay delicious and ready for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve thoroughly enjoyed guiding you through this chocolate covered hazelnuts recipe
It’s a rewarding way to blend simple ingredients into something truly memorable
Next time you’re craving a treat we know you’ll turn to this one
Give it a try and savor the homemade magic in every bite
Frequently Asked Questions
What are chocolate covered hazelnuts?
Chocolate covered hazelnuts are a delightful treat combining crunchy hazelnuts with rich dark chocolate. Originating from European traditions, they offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them great for snacking or gifting. This simple recipe uses everyday ingredients to create something special, suitable for all skill levels.
What ingredients do I need for chocolate covered hazelnuts?
You’ll need 2 cups of raw hazelnuts (toasted for flavor), 8 ounces of high-quality dark chocolate (chopped), 1 tablespoon of melted refined coconut oil for gloss, and optionally ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. These ingredients ensure a straightforward, delicious result with minimal effort.
How do I make chocolate covered hazelnuts at home?
Preheat your oven to 350°F and toast hazelnuts for 10-15 minutes until golden. Melt chocolate with coconut oil, dip the toasted hazelnuts, and let them cool until the chocolate hardens. It’s a simple process that takes about 30 minutes, perfect for beginners.
Can I prepare chocolate covered hazelnuts in advance?
Yes, toast hazelnuts up to 2 days ahead and store in an airtight container. Melt chocolate a few hours before dipping, and assemble the full batch a day in advance for gifting. This makes it easy to plan for events or homemade treats.
How should I store chocolate covered hazelnuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for up to three months. This keeps their crunch and flavor intact, so they’re always ready for snacking or sharing.
Are there any tips for the best chocolate covered hazelnuts?
Use high-quality ingredients for the best taste—toast hazelnuts to enhance flavor and add sea salt for balance. Ensure even chocolate melting with a double boiler or microwave, and let treats cool on a rack. This recipe is versatile and forgiving for home cooks.