There’s something irresistibly comforting about rich, creamy fudge melting on your tongue, and our Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge is the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy evening by the fireplace, sharing treats with family during a weekend gathering, or simply craving a sweet pick-me-up, this fudge promises to satisfy your chocolate cravings while delivering a delightful nutty crunch.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from the classic combination of chocolate and hazelnuts, beloved in European confectionery traditions. Think of the creamy, nutty flavors reminiscent of your favorite chocolate spread, but elevated to a rich, melt-in-your-mouth fudge. It’s a recipe that has been passed down and adapted to create a perfectly balanced treat: sweet, smooth, and irresistibly nutty. Every bite feels like a little celebration of flavor, making it a must-try for fudge lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
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2 cups granulated sugar
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark, based on preference)
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1 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
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Optional: extra chopped hazelnuts for topping
Directions
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Prepare the Pan: Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will make it easier to remove the fudge once it sets.
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Combine Sugar and Cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
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Add Butter and Salt: Add the unsalted butter and salt to the saucepan. Continue stirring until the butter melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
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Bring to Soft-Ball Stage: Attach a candy thermometer to the pan and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 234–240°F (soft-ball stage). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water—it should form a soft, pliable ball.
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Remove from Heat and Add Chocolate: Remove the saucepan from heat. Immediately stir in the chocolate chips and vanilla extract until fully melted and combined, creating a smooth, glossy chocolate mixture.
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Fold in Hazelnuts: Gently fold in the toasted hazelnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the fudge.
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Pour into Pan: Pour the fudge into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle extra chopped hazelnuts on top for added texture and visual appeal.
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Let Set: Allow the fudge to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours. For a firmer texture, you can refrigerate it for 30–60 minutes.
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Slice and Serve: Once set, remove the fudge from the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge
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Use High-Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your fudge depends heavily on the chocolate you choose. Opt for good-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a rich, decadent taste.
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Toast the Hazelnuts: Toasting hazelnuts enhances their flavor and adds a pleasant crunch. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes until fragrant.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on your sugar and cream mixture. Overcooking can result in a grainy texture instead of a smooth, creamy fudge.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the chocolate to seize and become lumpy.
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Cut Clean Slices: For neat slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Slightly warming the knife in hot water can also help achieve cleaner edges.
Why Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge is Perfect for Any Occasion
Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge is a versatile treat that works beautifully for many occasions:
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Family Gatherings: Its rich flavor and smooth texture make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults.
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Gift Giving: Slice it into small squares, wrap in parchment paper, and tie with a ribbon—it makes a thoughtful, homemade gift.
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Holiday Treats: While it’s perfect for any time of year, the cozy chocolate and nut combination is especially comforting during cooler months.
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Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: A small piece paired with coffee or tea can brighten an afternoon and satisfy a sweet craving.
The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts creates a nostalgic flavor that evokes fond memories of childhood treats, café indulgences, and special moments shared with loved ones. This fudge is not just a dessert; it’s a comforting experience in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
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Classic Squares: Serve simple, elegant squares as a snack or dessert.
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Topped with Berries: Add a fresh raspberry or strawberry on each piece for a colorful presentation and a slight tartness to balance the sweetness.
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Layered Desserts: Incorporate fudge pieces into a layered dessert like trifle or ice cream parfaits.
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Chocolate Boards: Include fudge squares on a dessert or chocolate board along with other confections, fruits, and nuts for parties.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to keeping your Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge fresh and creamy:
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
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Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks; allow fudge to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
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Freezing: Wrap in parchment and foil to freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this fudge ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge is that it can be made in advance, making it a convenient treat for busy schedules or for preparing ahead of gatherings. You can prepare the fudge a few days before you plan to serve it and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, storing it in the refrigerator works well too. For the best presentation and texture, slice the fudge just before serving. This prevents the edges from drying out and ensures each piece maintains its smooth, creamy consistency. Preparing it ahead also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving the chocolate and hazelnut combination an even richer, more indulgent taste.
2. Can I substitute the hazelnuts with other nuts?
Yes, if hazelnuts aren’t your favorite or you simply want to switch things up, you can substitute them with other nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts. Each type of nut brings a slightly different flavor and texture, allowing you to personalize your fudge. For example, almonds will give a slightly milder crunch, while pecans add a buttery richness. Toasting any nuts before adding them to the fudge is highly recommended. Toasting enhances their natural flavor, adds a pleasant aroma, and ensures the nuts maintain a crunchy texture that complements the creamy chocolate. This flexibility makes the recipe versatile for different tastes and occasions.
3. How do I achieve a smooth, creamy texture?
The key to achieving smooth and creamy fudge lies in proper cooking and handling. Start by cooking the sugar and cream mixture to the soft-ball stage (around 234–240°F) and remove it from heat immediately once it reaches this temperature. Stir in the chocolate while the mixture is hot so it melts fully and blends seamlessly. Avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a grainy texture. Additionally, using room-temperature butter and cream ensures that the chocolate combines evenly without seizing. Gentle folding and careful stirring help maintain a silky consistency. Following these steps guarantees that every bite of fudge is luxuriously smooth and melt-in-your-mouth perfect.
4. Can I add flavors or mix-ins?
Yes! One of the joys of homemade fudge is that it’s highly customizable. You can enhance your Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge by adding a pinch of sea salt for a subtle contrast, a dash of espresso powder for a mocha-inspired twist, or even swirl in caramel or peanut butter for extra richness. The key is to add these flavorings after the chocolate has fully melted and combined with the sugar mixture. This ensures they are evenly distributed and prevents any separation or clumping. These simple additions allow you to create a signature version of fudge tailored to your taste, making it even more irresistible and shareable.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge is more than just a sweet treat—it’s an experience. With its rich chocolate base and crunchy hazelnut pieces, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The process of making it is simple, yet the results feel luxurious, making it a fantastic addition to your dessert repertoire.
Whether you’re making it for yourself, gifting it to friends, or serving it at a gathering, this fudge is guaranteed to impress. Take your time, enjoy the process, and savor every bite of this indulgent, nutty delight. Once you try this recipe, it’s likely to become a staple in your kitchen, bringing warmth and sweetness to countless moments.
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The Best Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes (including setting time)
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge, a perfect treat for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty indulgence. This fudge combines smooth chocolate with crunchy toasted hazelnuts, creating a luxurious dessert that melts in your mouth and leaves a lasting impression. Inspired by classic European chocolate and hazelnut flavors, this recipe is simple to make and irresistibly satisfying.
Ingredients
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2 cups granulated sugar
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
-
1 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
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Optional: extra chopped hazelnuts for topping
Instructions
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Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to simmer.
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Add butter and salt, stirring until the butter melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
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Cook the mixture to 234–240°F (soft-ball stage), stirring occasionally. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
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Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
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Gently fold in toasted hazelnuts.
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Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Sprinkle extra chopped hazelnuts on top if desired.
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Allow to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for a firmer texture.
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Remove from the pan using parchment paper and slice into squares. Store in an airtight container.
Notes
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Use high-quality chocolate for best flavor.
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Toast hazelnuts to enhance their flavor and crunch.
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Avoid overcooking to prevent grainy texture.
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Use room-temperature ingredients for smooth blending.
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Wipe knife clean between cuts for neat slices.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
