The Ultimate Dairy-Free Chocolate Hazelnut Tart Recipe
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our Chocolate Hazelnut Tart, a dessert masterpiece that combines rich, decadent chocolate with the nutty goodness of hazelnuts. This recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also dairy-free, making it a perfect treat for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a healthier indulgence. The star of the show is undoubtedly the hazelnut crust, which adds a delightful texture and flavor that perfectly complements the creamy chocolate filling.
While every day is a good day for pie, Pi Day (March 14th) offers the perfect excuse to bake this extraordinary tart. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be accessible and rewarding. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart features a unique hazelnut and cookie crust, adding a delightful twist to the traditional pie crust. The filling is where the magic truly happens. It’s incredibly rich and satisfying, yet surprisingly made with avocados instead of heavy cream. This secret ingredient not only makes the tart dairy-free but also adds a creamy texture that you won’t believe is good for you!
The Irresistible Hazelnut Crust
Let’s dive into what makes this tart truly special: the hazelnut crust. This isn’t your average pie crust; it’s a game-changer. Forget every pie crust recipe you’ve ever used because this one is about to become your new go-to.
Having experimented with countless pie and tart crusts over the years, I can confidently say that this hazelnut crust is my absolute favorite. The combination of flavors and textures is simply unmatched. It’s easy to prepare and bakes to golden perfection, creating the perfect foundation for the decadent chocolate filling.
The secret to this incredible crust lies in the combination of hazelnuts and Biscoff cookies. Yes, you read that right! The Biscoff cookies add a touch of sweetness and spice that complements the nutty flavor of the hazelnuts perfectly. The result is a beautiful, cookie-like crust with a delightful crunch and an irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Using high-quality hazelnuts is key to achieving the best flavor in your crust. Look for fresh, plump hazelnuts that are free from blemishes. Roasting the hazelnuts before grinding them can enhance their flavor even further, adding a deeper, more intense nutty note to the crust.
The Secret: Dairy-Free Chocolate Pie Filling
Now, let’s move on to the heart of this dessert: the dairy-free chocolate pie filling. The secret to this rich, creamy filling is none other than avocados! Don’t let that surprise you; avocados are a fantastic ingredient for creating smooth, decadent desserts without the need for dairy. Of course, if you prefer, you can always use heavy cream and regular chocolate chips, but I encourage you to try this dairy-free version – you won’t be disappointed.
This recipe is inspired by my avocado chocolate mousse recipe, which has been a crowd-pleaser for years. The avocado not only provides a creamy texture but also adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall flavor of the chocolate. It’s a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional chocolate fillings.
Unlike some chocolate cream pies that can be thin and runny, this filling is thick, luscious, and incredibly smooth. It’s the kind of chocolate filling you want to savor slowly, perhaps with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon. The combination of dark and semi-sweet chocolate creates a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness that complements the hazelnut crust beautifully.
Using high-quality chocolate is essential for achieving the best flavor in your filling. Look for dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips that contain a high percentage of cocoa solids. This will ensure that your filling is rich, intense, and full of chocolatey goodness.
Perfecting Your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
To ensure your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a success, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Use a Springform Pan: A springform pan is essential for easily removing the tart without damaging the crust.
- Pre-Bake the Crust: Pre-baking the crust ensures that it is crisp and golden brown before adding the filling.
- Chill the Tart: Chilling the tart for at least a few hours allows the filling to set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Garnish Creatively: Get creative with your garnish! A sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts, a dusting of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add a beautiful finishing touch.
Variations and Adaptations
This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add Coffee: Enhance the chocolate flavor by adding a teaspoon of instant coffee to the filling.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a subtle kick.
- Use Different Nuts: Experiment with different nuts in the crust, such as almonds or walnuts.
- Make it Vegan: Ensure the recipe is fully vegan by using vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with:
- Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries complements the richness of the chocolate.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense filling.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or hazelnut ice cream is a classic pairing that elevates the dessert.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or tea is the perfect accompaniment to this indulgent treat.
Storing Your Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Leftover Chocolate Hazelnut Tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover the tart tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The tart can also be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. Thaw the tart in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart recipe
Chocolate Hazelnut Tart
Ingredients
For the Hazelnut Crust
- 3/4 cup hazelnuts
- 22 Biscoff cookies or gingersnap cookies
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 Tablespoons light brown sugar
For the Dairy-Free Chocolate Filling
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips*
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips*
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 3-4 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons agave nectar or honey
For the optional hazelnut topping
- 3 Biscoff cookies
- 4 cup hazelnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a food processor, process hazelnuts, cookies, light brown sugar, and melted butter until fully incorporated.
- Press crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, and a little bit up the sides.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 8-10 minutes, until the crust is slightly darker in color.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before filling.
- In a double boiler or a glass bowl placed over a small pot of water, bring water to a low boil over medium heat. Add chocolate chips and whisk until chocolate just begins to melt a little, and then slowly add almond milk. Turn off heat and whisk together chocolate and almond milk until the mixture is smooth and all the chocolate is fully melted. Remove bowl and set aside to cool slightly.
- Add avocado, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and agave nectar (or honey) to a food processor. Add melted chocolate. Process until the mixture is blended and smooth.
- In a food processor, blend 1/4 cup hazelnuts with 3 Biscoff cookies.
- Sprinkle over the pie for additional hazelnut yumminess.
Make the Crust
Make the Chocolate Filling
Make the optional topping
Notes
* I use Enjoy Life dairy-free chips but you can use any dairy-free chocolate. No need to be dairy-free? Use regular chocolate chips!
**No need to wash out the food processor in between uses here. In fact, I recommend NOT doing so because the yummy remaining bits of Biscoff cookies and hazelnuts used to make the crust add even more deliciousness to the filling!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I made this hazelnut chocolate pie inspired by a sponsored Instagram giveaway. However, I was in no way obligated to create a recipe for the Instagram giveaway, and, as always, all opinions and photos are my own.
Enjoy this decadent and delicious Chocolate Hazelnut Tart. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family!