Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

Name: Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped; 3 tbsp hazelnut liqueur (optional); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Cozy Desserts

I can't resist the allure of a decadent chocolate hazelnut tart, especially when there's a special occasion at hand. This tart has become one of my go-to desserts, effortlessly elevating any gathering with its rich flavors and stunning presentation. The combination of smooth chocolate paired with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts creates a superb harmony that delights every palate. With just a few simple ingredients, I’ve mastered the art of this scrumptious tart that never fails to impress. Join me in creating this tray of indulgence that will surely win hearts!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T13:10:27.775Z

When I first made this chocolate hazelnut tart, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together in such a luxurious way. I remember setting it in the fridge to chill, and the anticipation of slicing into its perfectly set ganache was palpable. The secret is allowing the tart to rest; this lets the ganache achieve the ideal consistency, which provides that decadent mouthfeel when enjoyed.

One evening, I decided to experiment by adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving. The result was nothing short of exhilarating! The contrast between the sweet chocolate and a touch of savory salt brought a delightful balance, making each bite a truly memorable experience. Trust me, this tart is perfect for showcasing your baking skills!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with the nutty essence of hazelnuts
Smooth ganache that is both luxurious and satisfying
Perfect for sharing during celebrations or as a delightful treat

      

Mastering the Tart Shell

Crafting the perfect tart shell is a crucial step that lays the foundation for your decadent chocolate hazelnut tart. When combining the dry ingredients, ensure they are well sifted to avoid lumps. The butter should be softened but not melted, allowing it to incorporate easily with the dry components. After mixing in the egg and vanilla, don't overwork the dough—this helps maintain a flakiness in the crust that beautifully contrasts with the rich filling.

After pressing the dough into the tart pan, chilling it is essential. This step prevents shrinkage while baking and ensures a crisp texture. I recommend using a glass or metal tart pan with a removable bottom for easy serving. When you bake the shell, look for a slight firming at the edges—this visual cue indicates that the crust will hold up well without becoming overly dry.

Creating the Ganache Filling

The ganache is where the magic happens in this recipe. Heating the heavy cream until just boiling allows the chocolate to melt seamlessly. I suggest using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content; this not only enhances the flavor profile but also ensures a smooth, glossy ganache texture. If your ganache seems too thick after mixing, simply add a drop more warm cream until you reach your desired consistency.

Incorporating hazelnut liqueur adds another dimension to the flavor, but if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can increase the amount of chopped hazelnuts for that nutty essence. Make sure to let the ganache cool before pouring it into the tart shell—this prevents the crust from becoming soggy and enhances the overall presentation. A well-set ganache should feel firm yet slightly yielding when touched.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your tart:

Tart Shell

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt

Filling

1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
3 tbsp hazelnut liqueur (optional)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
Pinch of sea salt

Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create your decadent tart:

Prepare the Tart Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the beaten egg, vanilla, and salt until a dough forms.

Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan. Chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the Tart Shell

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled tart shell for 15-20 minutes or until slightly firm. Allow it to cool completely.

Make the Ganache Filling

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just boiling. Remove from heat and add the chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in hazelnut liqueur, if using, and let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the ganache into the cooled tart shell and sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Serve

Once set, slice and serve with a sprinkle of sea salt if desired. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Serve chilled and store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

For an added crunch, save a few hazelnuts to garnish on top before serving. Also, experiment with different chocolate percentages to find your perfect flavor balance!

Variations and Serving Suggestions

This chocolate hazelnut tart is versatile and can be adapted according to personal tastes. Consider substituting milk chocolate for a sweeter experience, or even white chocolate for a different flavor twist. Adding a layer of fruit, such as raspberries or sliced bananas, between the ganache and tart shell can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.

When it comes to serving, I love to pair this tart with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the dessert experience. For an elegant touch, dust the top with cocoa powder or confectioners’ sugar before serving, or arrange some whole hazelnuts for added crunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this tart is its make-ahead potential. Both the tart shell and ganache can be made in advance. The tart shell can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to two days, while the ganache can be made and refrigerated for up to a week. Just remember to let the ganache come to room temperature before pouring it into the crust for a smooth finish.

If you have leftovers (which is quite rare!), store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To serve chilled, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes for enhanced flavor and texture. Refrain from freezing the tart, as it may alter the ganache's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste, but it will alter the overall richness.

→ Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Absolutely! The tart can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Is there a substitute for hazelnut liqueur?

If you want to avoid alcohol, you can substitute the liqueur with an equal amount of hazelnut extract.