1. Prepare the Pan:
Line an 8”x8” loose-bottom cake pan with wax or parchment paper, ensuring the sides are well covered to make removing the fudge easier later.
2. Roast the Hazelnuts:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread 1 cup of whole hazelnuts on a baking pan in a single layer.
Roast the hazelnuts in the oven for 8-10 minutes until they are fragrant and slightly browned.
Remove the hazelnuts from the oven, transfer them into a kitchen towel, and rub them together to remove as much of the skins as possible. The skins will peel away easily after roasting.
Place 1/2 cup of the roasted hazelnuts into a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin to make small bits. Set the whole and crushed hazelnuts aside.
3. Melt the Chocolate Mixture:
In a heatproof bowl, combine the 320 grams of chopped dark chocolate, 500 grams of sweetened condensed milk, 375 grams of Nutella, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt.
Place the bowl over a double boiler (a saucepan filled with simmering water with the bowl on top, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir continuously as the chocolate melts.
Stir gently until the chocolate is almost completely melted and all the ingredients are fully combined.
4. Add Final Ingredients:
Once the chocolate is nearly melted, add 1/2 teaspoon of unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated.
Remove the bowl from the heat and immediately add the prepared whole and crushed hazelnuts, stirring well to evenly distribute the nuts throughout the fudge mixture.
5. Assemble the Fudge:
Pour the chocolate-hazelnut mixture into the prepared cake pan, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer.
Decorate the top of the fudge with Ferrero Rocher chocolates, pressing them slightly into the surface.
Optionally, sprinkle additional crushed hazelnuts on top for extra texture and flavor.
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, until the fudge is fully set and firm.
6. Serve:
Once the fudge is set, carefully release it from the cake pan by lifting the parchment paper.
Cut the fudge into small, even squares, depending on your preferred serving size.
Serve at room temperature to fully enjoy the creamy, chocolatey, and nutty flavors.
Enjoy your decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge with Ferrero Rocher!
Cooking Tips:
Use high-quality chocolate: For the best flavor and texture, choose a good quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. The richness of the chocolate will balance out the sweetness of the Nutella and condensed milk.
Don’t overheat the chocolate: Be cautious when melting the chocolate. It’s best to melt it gently over low heat using the double boiler method. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize, leading to a grainy texture.
Customize the toppings: While Ferrero Rocher adds a luxurious touch to this recipe, you can swap them with any of your favorite chocolates or leave them out altogether.
Crush the hazelnuts finely: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can crush the hazelnuts more finely or even use hazelnut meal instead of whole or crushed nuts.
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store the fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften the texture slightly.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the fudge in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):
Calories: 320 kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 20g
Sugar: 25g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 90mg
FAQs:
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter fudge. However, dark chocolate provides a better balance to the sweetened condensed milk and Nutella.
Can I make this recipe without nuts?
Absolutely! If you have a nut allergy or prefer a nut-free fudge, simply omit the hazelnuts. You can substitute with other mix-ins like crushed cookies or pretzels for texture.
Can I use a different type of chocolate for decoration?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different chocolates like Lindt truffles, Kinder Bueno, or your personal favorite.
Can I make this fudge in advance?
Yes, this fudge is perfect for making ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, and it will keep well for up to two weeks.
Conclusion:
This Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge is a rich, indulgent dessert perfect for anyone with a love for chocolate and nuts. Combining Nutella, roasted hazelnuts, dark chocolate, and Ferrero Rocher, it’s a luxurious and satisfying treat. The added crunch from the hazelnuts and the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the fudge make it a favorite for parties, gifts, or just for treating yourself. Easy to prepare and even easier to devour, this recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a sweet treat at home, this fudge will not disappoint.
