Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue: A Decadent, Easy-To-Make Treat

Chocolate hazelnut fondue is a fun and easy dessert to make for a group of people or for an intimate celebration for two. It is a twist on the classic chocolate fondue, which originated in Switzerland as a way to use hardened cheese and stale bread in the winter months. The chocolate hazelnut variety is a form of fondue au chocolat, with the addition of hazelnut spread or liqueur to give it a rich flavour. This fondue can be made in a fondue pot or a saucepan, and is served with a variety of dippers such as fruit, cake, marshmallows, pretzels, and cookies.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue

Melting the chocolate

There are several methods for melting the chocolate, depending on the equipment you have available. A fondue pot is ideal for making and serving the fondue, as it is designed to maintain the correct temperature and make the process as simple as possible. If you don't have a fondue pot, you can use a heavy-bottom saucepan on a gas or electric stove, or even melt the chocolate in the microwave.

If using a fondue pot or saucepan, start by pouring heavy whipping cream into the pot and heating it over a medium-low temperature. It is important not to crank up the heat, as this can ruin the chocolate. Once the cream is hot but not boiling, add the chocolate chips and whisk until they are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and shiny. You can also add cinnamon at this stage for extra flavour.

If using a microwave, place the chocolate chips in a large, microwave-safe container, such as a measuring cup or bowl. Pour over the heavy cream and add butter, which will help to thin the chocolate and prevent it from solidifying as it cools. Microwave for 2 minutes, then whisk the mixture until smooth, adding more time in 15-second intervals if needed.

Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, you can add your chosen flavourings, such as hazelnut liqueur or vanilla extract. Continue stirring until everything is well combined, then serve immediately with your desired dippers.

Adding cream and other ingredients

Begin by pouring the cream into your fondue pot or a saucepan if you don't have one. If you are using a fondue pot, turn it on to a medium-low setting. If you are using a saucepan, heat the cream over low heat until it is hot but not boiling. This is an important step as you do not want to scorch the cream.

Once your cream is heated, it's time to add the chocolate. For a chocolate hazelnut fondue, you will need to use a combination of semisweet or bittersweet chocolate and chocolate hazelnut spread. You can use chocolate chips or finely chop a block of chocolate. Gradually add the chocolate to the cream, whisking continuously until it is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and shiny.

At this point, you can also add any additional flavourings such as a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of salt. If you want to make your fondue boozy, this is when you would add the hazelnut liqueur. Continue whisking until everything is well combined.

Finally, sprinkle some chopped toasted hazelnuts into your fondue for added flavour and texture. Serve your chocolate hazelnut fondue immediately with an assortment of dippers such as fruit, cake, cookies, or pretzels. Enjoy!

Choosing a fondue pot

When it comes to choosing a fondue pot, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to understand the different types of fondue pots available. The three main types are metal, ceramic, and electric fondue pots.

Metal fondue pots are usually made from stainless steel or enameled cast iron. They are sturdy and can be placed directly on the stovetop before being transferred to the table. Metal pots tend to be heavier and larger than other options.

Ceramic fondue pots are great at retaining heat and are easy to clean. They come in a variety of sizes, with some models being microwave-safe and stovetop-safe.

Electric fondue pots are a safer option as they don't require an open flame. They heat up quickly, are easy to adjust, and provide precise temperature control. However, they tend to be more expensive and require access to an electrical outlet.

When choosing a fondue pot, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you want something sturdy and don't mind the weight, a metal pot is a good option. If heat retention and ease of cleaning are priorities, a ceramic pot is ideal. For those who want a safer and more adjustable option, an electric fondue pot is worth the investment.

Additionally, it is worth considering the number of people you will typically be serving. If you plan on hosting larger groups, a larger pot may be necessary. Also, think about the types of fuel or heat sources that are available to you, as this will impact your choice of fondue pot.

Lastly, don't forget to have fun with it! Fondue pots can add a unique and interactive element to your dining experience, so choose one that fits your style and enjoy the process of creating delicious fondue memories with friends and family.

Selecting dippers

Firstly, fresh fruit is a great option. Strawberries, bananas, pineapple, mango, papaya, apples, pears, and dried fruits such as citrus or kiwi are all tasty choices. You could even try something different like warming dried fruits like citrus or kiwi in the oven to make them crispy.

For a salty-sweet combination, try dipping pretzels or potato chips. You could also sprinkle toasted coconut, slivered almonds, or crushed hazelnuts on your goodies after dipping.

Cakes and baked goods are also a great choice. Try dipping cubes of pound cake, angel food cake, brownies, blondies, rice crispy treats, or biscotti. Cookies are another tasty option—ginger snaps, pizzelle, graham crackers, red velvet cookies, or peanut butter cookies.

If you want to experiment, try dipping marshmallows, candy, or even homemade or store-bought sweet treats like chocolate chip cookies.

There are endless options for dippers, so get creative and choose your favourites!

Serving and storing

Chocolate hazelnut fondue is best served warm, immediately after preparation. You can serve it in a fondue pot to keep it warm, or transfer it to a bowl. If you don't have a fondue pot, you can use a saucepan, but the fondue will need to be eaten quickly.

There are many different foods that can be served alongside chocolate hazelnut fondue for dipping. Fresh fruit, such as strawberries, bananas, pineapple, apples, pears, oranges, grapefruit, and dried fruits like citrus or kiwi, are all popular options. For a salty-sweet combination, try dipping potato chips or pretzels. Cookies, pound cake, bar desserts, brownies, marshmallows, and biscotti are also great choices.

If you have any leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply place it back in your fondue pot or microwave it until warm.

Frequently asked questions