Chocolate Bars With Hazel Nuts Recipe
Chocolate bars with hazelnuts are a delectable treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts. This popular confection is enjoyed by people of all ages, and it’s easy to see why. In this article, we will share a delicious recipe and tips for making chocolate bars with hazelnuts.
Hazelnuts have been used in chocolate confections for centuries. In fact, the combination of chocolate and hazelnuts is said to have originated in the Piedmont region of Italy, where the famous gianduja chocolate spread was created. The first chocolate bar with hazelnuts was produced by the Italian confectioner Ferrero in 1946, and it quickly became a beloved treat worldwide.
A. Why Chocolate Bars with Hazelnuts are a Favorite Treat
There’s something irresistible about the combination of chocolate and hazelnuts. The rich, smooth flavor of the chocolate perfectly complements the nutty, slightly sweet taste of the hazelnuts, making it a popular treat for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth or an indulgent dessert to share with friends, chocolate bars with hazelnuts are sure to hit the spot.
B. Brief History of Chocolate and Hazelnuts
Chocolate has been around for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations in Mesoamerica. Hazelnuts, on the other hand, were first cultivated in Asia Minor and have been enjoyed as a food for centuries. It wasn’t until the 1800s that chocolate and hazelnuts were first combined in a confection, with the invention of Nutella, a hazelnut spread that includes chocolate as one of its main ingredients. Today, chocolate bars with hazelnuts are a beloved treat all around the world.
If you’re a fan of chocolate and hazelnuts, then you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll share a delicious recipe and tips for making chocolate bars with hazelnuts at home. We’ll walk you through each step of the process, from preparing the hazelnuts to shaping and decorating the chocolate bars. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.
II. Ingredients
A. List of Ingredients for Chocolate Bars with Hazelnuts
To make chocolate bars with hazelnuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chocolate: You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate, depending on your preference.
- Hazelnuts: Make sure to choose fresh, high-quality hazelnuts for the best flavor.
- Sea salt (optional): Adding a sprinkle of sea salt to the chocolate bars can help bring out the flavors.
B. Quality of Ingredients: Importance of Choosing High-Quality Chocolate and Fresh Hazelnuts
When it comes to making chocolate bars with hazelnuts, the quality of the ingredients is key. Choosing high-quality chocolate will ensure that your chocolate bars have a smooth, creamy texture and a rich, chocolatey flavor. Fresh hazelnuts are also essential for the best taste. Be sure to choose hazelnuts that are plump, shiny, and free of cracks or holes.
C. Chocolate Varieties: Dark, Milk, or White Chocolate?
One of the great things about making chocolate bars with hazelnuts is that you can use any variety of chocolate you like. Dark chocolate has a rich, intense flavor that pairs well with the nuttiness of the hazelnuts. Milk chocolate is smooth and creamy, with a milder flavor that appeals to many people. White chocolate, which is technically not chocolate at all, has a sweet, vanilla flavor that can complement the hazelnuts nicely. Experiment with different varieties of chocolate to find your favorite combination.
III. Preparing the Hazelnuts
A. Roasting the Hazelnuts: Benefits and Tips
Roasting the hazelnuts brings out their natural nuttiness and adds a layer of complexity to the chocolate bars. The roasting process also helps to remove any excess moisture from the nuts, which can affect the texture of the final product. To roast hazelnuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 10-15 minutes, or until the skins begin to crack and the nuts turn golden brown. Make sure to check the nuts frequently to avoid burning them.
B. Removing the Hazelnut Skins: Different Methods and Tips
After roasting the hazelnuts, it’s important to remove their skins. This step can be a bit tedious, but it’s worth the effort for the added nuttiness and texture it provides. T
here are several methods for removing the skins, including rubbing them off with a kitchen towel or placing them in a clean kitchen towel and rubbing them against each other. Another method involves placing the roasted hazelnuts in a plastic bag and rubbing them against each other until the skins come off. Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to remove as much of the skin as possible to achieve the best results.
IV. Making the Chocolate Bar
A. Melting Chocolate: Different Methods and Tips
Melting chocolate can be a delicate process, as it can easily burn or seize if not done properly. There are several methods for melting chocolate, including using a double boiler, a microwave, or a chocolate melting pot. For the double boiler method, fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer.
Place a heatproof bowl on top of the pot, making sure it doesn’t touch the water. Add the chopped chocolate to the bowl and stir until melted. For the microwave method, place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted. Regardless of which method you choose, make sure to stir the chocolate frequently to avoid burning or seizing.
B. Tempering Chocolate: Importance and Methods
Tempering chocolate is an important step in the chocolate-making process, as it helps to ensure a smooth and glossy finish on the chocolate bars. Tempering involves heating and cooling the chocolate to specific temperatures and stirring it to encourage the formation of stable crystals.
There are several methods for tempering chocolate, including the seeding method and the tabling method. The seeding method involves adding small pieces of unmelted chocolate to the melted chocolate and stirring until the temperature reaches the desired range. The tabling method involves pouring the melted chocolate onto a cool surface and spreading and scraping it until it cools to the desired temperature. Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to follow the specific temperature ranges for each type of chocolate.
C. Adding the Hazelnuts to the Melted Chocolate: Mixing Techniques
After the chocolate is melted and tempered, it’s time to mix in the roasted and skinned hazelnuts. There are several mixing techniques you can use, including folding the hazelnuts into the chocolate using a spatula or pouring the chocolate over the hazelnuts in a separate bowl and stirring gently to combine. Regardless of which technique you choose, make sure to mix the hazelnuts into the chocolate evenly to ensure each bite has a good balance of chocolate and nuts.
V. Shaping and Decorating the Chocolate Bar
A. Choosing the Right Mold for the Chocolate Bars
Selecting the appropriate mold is crucial in determining the final shape and appearance of your chocolate bars. You can choose from a variety of molds, including silicone, metal, and plastic. Silicone molds are the most popular option because they are flexible and easy to clean. You can find a wide range of shapes and sizes to suit your preferences. Metal molds are ideal for creating traditional rectangular or square bars, while plastic molds are more affordable and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
B. Pouring the Melted Chocolate into the Mold:
Tips for Perfect Results Once you have selected your mold, it’s time to pour the melted chocolate into it. Make sure that the mold is clean and dry before you start. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the chocolate evenly into the corners and edges of the mold. Tap the mold gently on the counter to release any air bubbles that may have formed. You can also use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the chocolate and create a marbled effect.
C. Decorating the Chocolate Bars:
Ideas and Tips Decorating your chocolate bars can be a fun and creative process. You can use a variety of toppings to add texture and flavor to your bars. Some popular options include chopped hazelnuts, sea salt, dried fruits, and edible flowers. You can also drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top of the bars for a decorative touch. Make sure that any toppings you use are evenly distributed and adhere well to the surface of the chocolate.
VI. Serving and Storing the Chocolate Bar
A. Cutting the Chocolate Bar:
Different Techniques and Tips Once your chocolate bars have hardened, it’s time to cut them into individual servings. You can use a sharp knife or a chocolate cutter to create clean and precise cuts. It’s essential to let the chocolate come to room temperature before cutting, as this will prevent it from cracking or breaking. You can also warm the knife or cutter under hot water to make the process easier.
B. Serving Suggestions:
Pairing with Wine or Coffee Chocolate bars with hazelnuts pair well with a variety of beverages, including wine and coffee. Dark chocolate pairs well with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, while milk chocolate is best enjoyed with lighter red wines like Pinot Noir or Merlot. If you prefer coffee, a rich and robust blend like French Roast or Espresso is an excellent choice.
C. Storing the Chocolate Bar:
Tips for Maintaining Freshness and Flavor To ensure that your chocolate bars stay fresh and flavorful, it’s essential to store them properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can cause the chocolate to develop condensation and affect its texture and flavor. Chocolate bars with hazelnuts can be stored for up to two weeks.
VII. Conclusion
A. Recap of Steps for Making Chocolate Bars with Hazelnuts
To summarize, making chocolate bars with hazelnuts involves roasting and removing the skins of the hazelnuts, melting and tempering the chocolate, adding the hazelnuts to the melted chocolate, pouring the mixture into a mold, and decorating and cutting the bars. Storing the bars properly will ensure that they stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks.
B. Final Thoughts:
Experimenting with Flavors and Ingredients Making chocolate bars with hazelnuts is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. You can add other nuts, spices, or fruits to the chocolate to create your unique combinations. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (218 g) cocoa butter
- 1/3 - 1/2 cup (80-120 ml) maple syrup (amount depending on preferred sweetness)
- 1 cup (96 g) cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (56 g) roasted almonds*
- 1/8 tsp sea salt
Instructions
- Melt cocoa butter in a double boiler or in a glass mixing bowl set over a small saucepan with 1 inch of water over medium heat. Alternatively, melt in the microwave in a mixing bowl until completely liquid.
- Once melted, remove from heat and add maple syrup and whisk to combine. When the mixture is completely fluid with no separation, add cacao or cocoa powder and vanilla extract. Whisk to thoroughly combine.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed - I found 1/3 cup to be perfect.
- Pour the chocolate into candy molds (if you have them), mini paper cupcake liners, or simply line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the chocolate on top. Top with roasted almonds and sprinkle of salt.
- Set in the refrigerator or freezer to harden for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Once completely solid, break or cut into pieces/bars. These can be kept at room temperature for serving. But for best freshness, store chocolate in an airtight container or freezer bag in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks, or the freezer for 1-2 months.