Dark Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts Recipe

Introduction

With a satisfying crunch and the perfect blend of nutty and rich chocolate flavors, homemade dark chocolate covered hazelnuts make an irresistible treat. This simple recipe combines toasted hazelnuts with smooth dark chocolate, creating delicious clusters that are ideal for snacking or gifting.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole hazelnuts
• 1 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spread the hazelnuts evenly across the pan. Roast them for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool.
2. Step 2: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
3. Step 3: Add the cooled toasted hazelnuts to the melted chocolate and stir thoroughly to coat all the nuts.
4. Step 4: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate and hazelnut mixture onto the parchment-lined sheet pan to form clusters. For smaller clusters, use less per spoonful.
5. Step 5: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the clusters to enhance the flavor.
6. Step 6: Place the sheet pan in the refrigerator and allow the clusters to set until firm, ideally for at least 30 minutes.
7. Step 7: Once hardened, serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.

Tips & Variations

• Add mix-ins like chopped candied ginger or dried cranberries to the chocolate before forming clusters for extra flavor and texture.
• For bite-sized treats, dip individual hazelnuts in chocolate instead of making clusters.
• Try using milk or white chocolate as an alternative to dark chocolate for a different taste profile.
• Ensure the hazelnuts are completely cool before mixing with chocolate to prevent it from seizing.

Storage

Store the chocolate covered hazelnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the chocolate firm. They will stay fresh for up to two weeks refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze them for several months and thaw briefly at room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use raw hazelnuts instead of roasted?

Yes, but roasting enhances the flavor and crunch. If you use raw hazelnuts, you may want to toast them lightly to bring out their nuttiness.

What can I substitute for coconut oil?

You can use other neutral vegetable oils, such as canola or sunflower oil, to help the chocolate set, though coconut oil provides a nice texture and slight flavor.

Dark Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 90 reviews

• Author: Lila
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 15 large clusters or 24 smaller clusters 1x

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Description

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these easy-to-make Dark Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts. This decadent snack combines crunchy roasted hazelnuts with rich, melted dark chocolate, enhanced by a hint of coconut oil for a smooth finish and an optional sprinkle of sea salt for added depth. Perfect as a holiday gift, a delightful dessert, or a simple treat to enjoy anytime.

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Ingredients

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Ingredients

• 2 cups whole hazelnuts
• 1 1/4 cups dark chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt or flaky sea salt (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Toast Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper and spread the hazelnuts in an even layer. Roast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Remove and let cool.
2. Melt Chocolate Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
3. Combine Hazelnuts and Chocolate: Add the toasted hazelnuts to the melted chocolate mixture and stir well, ensuring all nuts are evenly coated.
4. Form Clusters: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the chocolate-coated hazelnuts onto the lined sheet pan, shaping them into clusters. You can make larger clusters (about 15) or smaller ones (up to 24), depending on your preference.
5. Optional Salt Topping: Sprinkle sea salt generously over the clusters to add a contrasting flavor.
6. Chill to Set: Place the sheet pan in the refrigerator and allow the hazelnut clusters to set and harden for at least 30 minutes or longer for best results.
7. Serve and Store: Once set, enjoy immediately or store the clusters in the fridge to keep them firm. They also freeze well for several months.

Notes

• For variation, add mix-ins like chopped candied ginger or dried cranberries into the chocolate with the hazelnuts for extra flavor and texture.
• If preferred, dip individual hazelnuts instead of making clusters for bite-sized treats.
• Store the finished clusters in the fridge for best texture or freeze for long-term storage.
• Use any chocolate variety you prefer, such as milk or white chocolate, if desired.
• Ensure to cool the hazelnuts after roasting before mixing with chocolate to prevent melting or seizing.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: dark chocolate covered hazelnuts, chocolate hazelnut clusters, roasted hazelnuts, chocolate snack, holiday treats