Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a rich and elegant dessert featuring a buttery, crisp tart crust filled with a velvety chocolate ganache and topped with crunchy hazelnuts and whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions, this indulgent treat balances deep chocolate flavors with the nutty goodness of hazelnuts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent & Creamy – A smooth, chocolatey filling that melts in your mouth.
• Crunchy & Buttery Crust – A homemade tart crust that perfectly complements the filling.
• Elegant Dessert – Ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or special occasions.
• Nutty & Rich Flavor – The combination of dark chocolate and hazelnuts creates a luxurious taste.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared in advance and chilled until serving.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• ¼ cup cocoa powder
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped hazelnuts
• Whipped cream for topping

Directions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Dough – In a bowl, mix flour, cold butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Wet Ingredients – Stir in the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Press into Tart Pan – Roll out the dough and press it evenly into a tart pan. Use a fork to poke holes in the bottom.
5. Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool.

Prepare the Filling

6. Heat the Cream – In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until just simmering.
7. Melt the Chocolate – Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
8. Add Remaining Ingredients – Mix in cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Assemble & Chill

9. Fill the Tart Shell – Pour the chocolate mixture into the cooled crust and smooth the top.
10. Refrigerate – Chill in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours until set.
11. Garnish & Serve – Before serving, top with whipped cream and chopped hazelnuts.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Substitute hazelnuts with toasted coconut or omit entirely.
• Salted Caramel Twist: Drizzle salted caramel over the tart before serving.
• Milk Chocolate Option: Replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
• Coffee-Infused Flavor: Add 1 tsp of espresso powder to the chocolate filling.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Use almond flour or a gluten-free tart crust.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the tart (without whipped cream) for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Serving Tip: Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Do I need a tart pan with a removable bottom?

A removable-bottom tart pan makes it easier to serve, but a regular tart pan or pie dish will also work.

How do I get a smooth chocolate filling?

Let the hot cream sit over the chopped chocolate for a couple of minutes before stirring gently to avoid air bubbles.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Heavy cream provides a richer texture, but half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative.

What’s the best way to toast hazelnuts?

Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Can I add liqueur to the filling?

Yes, a splash of hazelnut liqueur like Frangelico or Baileys adds extra depth of flavor.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Ensure the crust is fully baked and cooled before adding the filling.

Can I make mini versions of this tart?

Yes, divide the dough and filling into mini tart molds and adjust baking time accordingly.

What should I serve with this tart?

Pair it with coffee, espresso, or a glass of dessert wine for an indulgent treat.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wipe between slices for neat edges.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a luxurious dessert with a buttery crust, rich chocolate ganache, and crunchy hazelnuts. Perfect for any special occasion, it’s easy to make yet incredibly impressive. Whether served at a dinner party or as a weekend indulgence, this tart is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a slice of chocolatey perfection!