Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I’ve always been a fan of desserts that bring together rich flavors and satisfying textures, and this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart does exactly that. As soon as I took the first bite, I was captivated by the way the smooth, dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the crunch of hazelnuts. This tart is decadent without being overly sweet, making it a delightful end to any meal. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to assemble, which is a relief when entertaining guests. You’ll find that this recipe is a must-try for any chocolate lover!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:13:11.594Z

Creating this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart was a truly enjoyable experience. I experimented with different ratios of hazelnuts and chocolate until I found the perfect balance. The blend of the nutty flavor with the smooth chocolate filling makes for a harmonious dessert that’s hard to resist. It’s also a great conversation starter when served at gatherings!

One tip I learned is to toast the hazelnuts lightly before adding them to the tart. This step enhances their flavor significantly and adds a delightful crunch. Trust me, it’s worth the extra few minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh hazelnuts
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Impressive presentation for any occasion

      

Mastering the Perfect Tart Crust

The tart crust is the foundation of this dessert, and getting it just right is crucial. The use of cold butter is essential; it creates a flaky texture when baked. Be sure to handle the dough minimally to avoid overworking it, which can lead to a tough crust. When pressing the dough into the tart pan, aim for an even layer, making sure to push it into the corners. This ensures a uniform texture and prevents any air pockets from forming during baking.

Chilling the crust for 30 minutes is a key step that should not be overlooked. It helps the gluten relax, preventing shrinkage during baking. If you notice the edges starting to brown too quickly while baking, you can cover them with foil to protect against overcooking. For an added touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the crust before pouring in the filling.

Creating a Velvety Chocolate Filling

To achieve a velvety smooth filling, it's important to slowly heat the cream rather than boiling it. Bring it to a gentle simmer, as high temperatures can cause the cream to separate. Once it's simmering, letting the chopped dark chocolate sit for several minutes before stirring ensures it melts evenly. The result should be a glossy mixture that combines beautifully with the eggs and sugar, bringing a silky richness to every bite.

When whisking the eggs and sugar, focus on aerating the mixture until it becomes pale and fluffy. This adds a lightness to the filling that contrasts with the dense chocolate and adds to the overall texture. If you want to add depth to the flavor, consider incorporating a tablespoon of strong brewed coffee or espresso, which complements chocolate remarkably well.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

For the Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced
1 large egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
3 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before you begin assembling the tart.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart.

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the cold butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan, prick the bottom with a fork, and chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled crust for 20 minutes. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.

Make the Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it simmers. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, letting it sit for a few minutes to melt. Stir until smooth. In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the chocolate mixture and vanilla extract. Fold in the toasted hazelnuts.

Bake the Tart

Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 25 minutes. The center should be set but slightly soft. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before serving.

Once cooled, serve your tart with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. You can also garnish the tart with crushed hazelnuts or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is incredible on its own, but there's plenty of room for variation in presentation. Consider serving it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to counterbalance the richness of the tart. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate its visual appeal and flavor complexity.

For a seasonal twist, serve the tart with a side of fresh berries; raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing tartness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate. If you want to impress your guests further, decorate the top with whole toasted hazelnuts or chocolate shavings for a gourmet touch.

Make-Ahead Tips

This tart is ideal for make-ahead occasions! Both the crust and the filling can be prepared one day in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If making ahead, store the baked crust in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. The filling can be mixed and refrigerated overnight in a covered bowl before pouring it into the crust on the day you plan to serve it.

Once the tart is baked and cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To serve, let it come to room temperature for a softer texture or reheat it briefly in a low oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for a warm dessert option. Just be cautious not to overheat, as the filling could become too soft and lose its structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but keep in mind that using milk chocolate will result in a sweeter filling.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the tart?

Yes, you can freeze the baked tart for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

→ What can I serve with the tart?

This tart pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries.