Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars
Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration
I absolutely love making these Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars whenever I need a decadent treat. The rich combination of dark chocolate and finely chopped hazelnuts creates a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a perfect mix of creamy and crunchy textures, leaving you wanting more. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to prepare! With just a few key ingredients, I can whip up a batch of these indulgent bars that are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all by myself. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy!
When I first tried making these Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could yield such a rich and luxurious treat. The secret is in using high-quality dark chocolate and toasting the hazelnuts just right to enhance their flavor. I actually experimented with different types of chocolate and found that a blend of semi-sweet and bittersweet chocolate gives the bars the perfect balance of sweetness and depth.
One tip I'd love to share is to let the bars chill in the refrigerator for a couple of hours after cutting them. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a firmer texture, making them easier to slice cleanly. I've made these for gatherings multiple times, and they never fail to impress!
Why You'll Love These Bars
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy hazelnuts
- Decadent creamy texture that satisfies any sweet tooth
- Perfect for gifting or enjoying as an afternoon pick-me-up
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to achieving the rich flavor and smooth texture of Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars lies in the quality of the chocolate. I recommend using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a deep, complex taste. The semi-sweet chocolate complements the dark chocolate by adding a hint of sweetness, balancing the overall flavor profile. Make sure to chop your chocolate into small, uniform pieces to ensure even melting.
Hazelnuts are not just a delightful crunch; they also provide a nutty depth that enhances the chocolate experience. To maximize their flavor, toast the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as burnt nuts can impart a bitter taste to your treats. Once toasted, allow them to cool before chopping, as this prevents them from becoming oily.
Perfecting the Technique
When combining the heavy cream with the chocolate, use low heat to gently warm the cream until it simmers. This process is crucial because overheating can cause the chocolate to seize, resulting in a grainy texture. Pour the cream over the chocolate and let it sit for about a minute before stirring; this step allows the chocolate to melt slowly for a smooth mixture. Stir until the ganache is glossy and fully combined, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
After mixing in the hazelnuts, smoothing the mixture into the baking dish is important for even bars. I like to use a rubber spatula for this part, as it helps create a smooth surface. When refrigerating, be sure to cover the dish to prevent it from absorbing any odors from your fridge. Allowing at least 2 hours for chilling will ensure the bars set properly and are easy to cut into neat squares.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to start making your delicious bars!
Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your chocolate hazelnut bars!
Prepare the Chocolate Mixture
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dark and semi-sweet chocolate. In another saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
Add the Flavors
Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined, and then fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
Set the Mixture
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for about 2 hours or until set.
Cut and Serve
Once set, remove the mixture from the baking dish and cut it into bars. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars!
Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Pro Tips
- For a unique twist, try adding a dash of espresso powder to the chocolate mixture for an amazing flavor boost.
Storage Tips
These truffle bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to extend their life, consider freezing them. Cut them into bars and layer between parchment paper in a suitable freezer container. They will keep well for about 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving to maintain that delightful texture.
If you notice any condensation when you take them out of the fridge, allow them to sit at room temperature for a bit, as this will help retain their ideal creamy consistency without becoming too soft or melting.
Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars make a wonderful treat paired with a cup of coffee or tea. For a gourmet touch, serve them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of temperatures and textures will delight your palate. If you're feeling playful, drizzle some melted chocolate on top or sprinkle with sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
These bars are also perfect for gifting! Cut them neatly and place them in a decorative box or jar. You might even consider adding a label that highlights the rich chocolate and nutty flavors to entice the recipient. They're sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but the taste will be sweeter and less intense.
→ How should I store the truffle bars?
Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream alternative for a dairy-free option.
Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars
I absolutely love making these Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars whenever I need a decadent treat. The rich combination of dark chocolate and finely chopped hazelnuts creates a delightful flavor that’s hard to resist. Each bite is a perfect mix of creamy and crunchy textures, leaving you wanting more. Plus, they are surprisingly simple to prepare! With just a few key ingredients, I can whip up a batch of these indulgent bars that are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying all by myself. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy!
Created by: Kerensa Trelawney
Recipe Type: Oven Inspiration
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 100g semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dark and semi-sweet chocolate. In another saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a gentle simmer, then pour it over the chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
Mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined, and then fold in the chopped hazelnuts.
Pour the mixture into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for about 2 hours or until set.
Once set, remove the mixture from the baking dish and cut it into bars. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Truffle Bars!
Extra Tips
- For a unique twist, try adding a dash of espresso powder to the chocolate mixture for an amazing flavor boost.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g