Oh, the holiday season! It brings back so many warm memories of baking with my family, and one treat that always stands out is my beloved Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares. The aroma of melting chocolate and toasting hazelnuts fills the kitchen, wrapping us in a cozy embrace. These squares are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors! The rich, velvety dark chocolate perfectly mingles with the crunchy hazelnuts, creating a texture that’s both fudgy and satisfying. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland, making every festive gathering just a little sweeter. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares shine! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 200g dark chocolate (chopped into small pieces for easy melting)
- 100g unsalted butter (cut into cubes for quicker melting)
- 150g hazelnuts (chopped, but feel free to leave some whole for a crunchy surprise!)
- 100g sugar (regular granulated sugar works perfectly)
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature for better mixing)
- 50g all-purpose flour (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for that warm, cozy flavor)
Make sure your ingredients are fresh, as it really makes a difference in taste. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of these festive squares!
How to Prepare Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making these scrumptious Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful treat in no time.
Step 1: Melt Chocolate and Butter
Start by melting the dark chocolate and unsalted butter together. Place a heatproof bowl over a pot of gently simmering water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water—this is crucial to avoid any water sneaking into your chocolate! Stir occasionally until everything is melted and silky smooth. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly while you prep the next ingredients.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Once your chocolate and butter mixture has cooled a bit, stir in the sugar until it’s well incorporated. Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing vigorously after each addition until the mixture is shiny and smooth—this is where the magic happens! Next, gently fold in the sifted flour, chopped hazelnuts, and vanilla extract. Be careful not to overmix; you want everything just combined for that perfect fudgy texture!
Step 3: Bake
Pour the luscious batter into a lined baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it into a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges look set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Trust me, it’ll firm up as it cools!
Step 4: Cool and Cut
After baking, let your delightful squares cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, slice them into squares. For the best flavor, I suggest chilling them in the fridge for a bit before serving—this makes them even more delicious!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares turn out absolutely delicious, here are my top tips! First, always use high-quality dark chocolate; it makes a world of difference in flavor! When melting chocolate and butter, make sure to keep the heat low to avoid burning—gently simmering water is your friend. Also, allow the melted mixture to cool slightly before adding the eggs; this prevents them from scrambling. When folding in the flour and hazelnuts, use a gentle hand to maintain that rich fudgy texture. Lastly, don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the squares enhances their flavor and makes cutting them a breeze. Trust me, these little tweaks will elevate your treats to the next level!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares! While they’re a treat meant for indulgence, it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying. Here’s an estimated breakdown per square:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements, but this gives you a solid idea of what to expect. Enjoy these squares in moderation, and revel in the joy they bring during the festive season!
FAQ Section
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Sure, you can swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate, but be prepared for a slightly different flavor and texture! Milk chocolate is sweeter and creamier, which can make the squares taste a bit more like a candy bar rather than the rich, deep chocolate experience you get from dark chocolate. If you love that sweetness, go for it, but keep in mind it might not have that same intense chocolatey punch!
How should I store the squares?
To keep your Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge! They’ll last about a week in there. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture. Trust me, chilling them enhances the taste and makes them even more delightful!
Can I add other nuts or ingredients?
Absolutely! One of the best parts about these squares is how versatile they can be. Feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or pecans for an added crunch, or even throw in some chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries can add a lovely tartness too! Get creative with your favorite flavors and textures—there are no limits to how you can make these squares uniquely yours!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a festive treat that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds, then these Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares are the perfect choice! Here’s why you’ll adore making them:
- **Irresistible Flavor**: The combination of rich dark chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts creates a decadent flavor that feels like a hug in dessert form.
- **Easy to Make**: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these squares come together quickly, making them perfect for busy holiday baking.
- **Perfect for Sharing**: Cut them into squares and they’re ideal for sharing at gatherings, parties, or as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
- **Seasonal Appeal**: These squares capture the essence of the holidays with their cozy flavors, making them a festive addition to any dessert table.
- **Make-Ahead Option**: They store beautifully in the fridge, so you can prepare them in advance and enjoy them fresh when it’s time to celebrate!
Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making these delightful squares a cherished part of your holiday traditions!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares, think about what can elevate the experience even more! A warm cup of rich hot chocolate or a smooth espresso pairs beautifully with these squares, enhancing that cozy, festive vibe. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream—oh my goodness, the combination of warm and cold is heavenly! You could also add a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence. And don’t forget about fresh berries; their tartness complements the sweetness of the squares perfectly. Enjoy experimenting with these delightful pairings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares fresh and tasty, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to let them come back to room temperature before diving in—this really enhances their flavor and texture! If you prefer them warm, you can pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat; you want them just warm enough to enjoy without losing that fudgy goodness!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
Learn more about the health benefits of dark chocolate here.
Print
Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares to Enchant Your Holidays
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Christmas Hazelnut Chocolate Squares perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 200g dark chocolate
- 100g unsalted butter
- 150g hazelnuts, chopped
- 100g sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 50g all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a bowl over simmering water.
- Remove from heat and stir in sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in flour, hazelnuts, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a lined baking dish.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best served after chilling in the fridge.
- You can sprinkle sea salt on top for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Christmas, Hazelnut, Chocolate, Squares, Dessert