If you’re a fan of traditional tiramisu, you’re going to love this luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert. Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu brings together the rich, velvety flavors of chocolate and hazelnut with the creamy, coffee-soaked layers of traditional tiramisu. This indulgent dessert is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

This version of tiramisu takes everything you love about the original—its creaminess, its coffee-soaked ladyfingers, its subtle sweetness—and adds the nutty richness of hazelnuts and the deep flavor of chocolate. It’s the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate and hazelnut, reminiscent of the beloved spread Nutella, but in a more sophisticated form.

Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it an impressive dessert for dinner parties, holidays, or romantic dinners at home. Plus, it’s a no-bake dessert, so you can easily prepare it ahead of time.

Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

For the Mascarpone Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream, cold
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 16 ounces mascarpone cheese, room temperature
• ½ cup chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)

For the Coffee Soak:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, cooled
• 2 tablespoons coffee liqueur (optional, such as Kahlúa)

For the Assembly:

• 24-30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
• ½ cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup grated or finely chopped dark chocolate

For Garnish (Optional):

• Additional cocoa powder for dusting
• Whole toasted hazelnuts
• Chocolate shavings or curls

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• 8×8-inch baking dish or similar
• Whisk
• Fine-mesh sieve (for dusting cocoa powder)
• Grater (for chocolate)

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

Step 1: Prepare the Mascarpone Cream

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.

In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese and the chocolate hazelnut spread. Gently fold the whipped cream mixture into the mascarpone mixture until smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the mixture light and airy.

Step 2: Make the Coffee Soak

In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee or espresso with the coffee liqueur (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Tiramisu

Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture, making sure to soak them lightly without getting them too soggy. Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of your baking dish.

Spread half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the layer of ladyfingers. Sprinkle a generous amount of finely chopped toasted hazelnuts and grated dark chocolate over the cream.

Repeat the process with another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream mixture. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Chill the Tiramisu

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with unsweetened cocoa powder using a fine-mesh sieve. Garnish with whole toasted hazelnuts and chocolate shavings or curls, if desired.

Use a sharp knife to cut the tiramisu into squares and serve chilled.

Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

• Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Use good-quality mascarpone, chocolate hazelnut spread, and dark chocolate for the best flavor.
• Don’t Over-Soak the Ladyfingers: A quick dip in the coffee mixture is all you need. If the ladyfingers are too wet, the tiramisu can become soggy.
• Make It Ahead: Tiramisu is a great make-ahead dessert. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to develop.
• Customize the Coffee Soak: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, use espresso instead of regular coffee. You can also adjust the amount of coffee liqueur to taste.

How to Store Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld together, and the dessert will remain delicious.

If you have leftovers, you can also freeze individual portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Alcohol-Free Version: If you prefer to skip the coffee liqueur, simply omit it and use extra coffee or espresso instead.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute the hazelnuts with finely chopped dark chocolate or leave them out altogether for a nut-free tiramisu.
• Different Nut Spreads: Try using almond or cashew butter in place of the chocolate hazelnut spread for a different flavor profile.

FAQs About Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

Q: Can I make this tiramisu in a larger pan?
A: Yes, you can double the recipe and make it in a 9×13-inch pan if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just adjust the number of ladyfingers and the amount of mascarpone cream accordingly.

Q: What can I use instead of mascarpone cheese?
A: Cream cheese can be used as a substitute, though it will give the dessert a slightly different flavor and texture. Mix it with a little heavy cream to soften it before using.

Q: How long should I chill the tiramisu?
A: For best results, chill the tiramisu for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.

Q: Can I use store-bought ladyfingers?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought ladyfingers work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to choose the hard, crunchy variety, as they absorb the coffee soak better.

Conclusion: Indulge in Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu

Chocolate Hazelnut Tiramisu is a decadent, indulgent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly extraordinary. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy mascarpone, and crunchy hazelnuts is simply irresistible.

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