If you enjoy creamy desserts with a rich chocolate and nutty flavor, this Nutella and hazelnut dessert is a simple treat to add to your recipe collection.
Made with biscuits, softened butter, powdered milk, Nutella, and chopped nuts, this dessert has a creamy texture with a satisfying crunch. It is prepared in a 24 × 24 cm baking pan and can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for family gatherings, celebrations, or an afternoon coffee break.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No complicated baking techniques
- Rich chocolate and hazelnut flavor
- Creamy texture with a crunchy nut topping
- Easy to prepare ahead of time
- Great for sharing with family and guests
- Perfect with coffee or tea
Ingredients
For the Biscuit Base
- 400 g plain biscuits or cookies
For the Cream Layer
- 1 glass of milk
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 260 g softened butter
- 2 glasses powdered milk
- 400 g Nutella
- 150 g walnuts or hazelnuts, finely chopped
Equipment
- 24 × 24 cm square baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric or hand mixer
- Spatula
- Refrigerator
How to Make Nutella and Hazelnut Dessert
Step 1: Prepare the Biscuit Layer
Crush the biscuits into fine crumbs. You can use a food processor or place the biscuits in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Set the crumbs aside while you prepare the creamy filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Butter Mixture
Place the softened butter in a large mixing bowl.
Add the powdered sugar and beat until the mixture becomes lighter and creamy.
Make sure the butter is soft rather than completely melted, as softened butter will give the filling a better consistency.
Step 3: Add the Powdered Milk
Gradually add the powdered milk while continuing to mix.
Pour in the milk little by little and keep mixing until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture becomes smooth.
Step 4: Add the Nutella
Add the Nutella to the creamy mixture.
Mix thoroughly until the Nutella is evenly incorporated and the filling has a smooth chocolate-hazelnut color.
Step 5: Add the Nuts
Reserve a small amount of the chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for decoration.
Fold the remaining nuts into the cream mixture using a spatula. This adds a pleasant crunchy texture to the dessert.
Step 6: Assemble the Dessert
Line the bottom of a 24 × 24 cm baking pan with the crushed biscuits.
Press the biscuit layer gently so that it forms an even base.
Spread the Nutella cream evenly over the biscuit layer.
Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining chopped nuts over the top.
Step 7: Chill
Cover the pan and place it in the refrigerator for several hours until the dessert becomes firm enough to cut.
For the cleanest slices, allow it to chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
Use softened butter: Let the butter soften at room temperature before mixing. Avoid using completely melted butter.
Add the milk gradually: Adding it little by little makes it easier to control the consistency of the cream.
Choose your favorite nuts: Hazelnuts give the dessert a classic chocolate-hazelnut flavor, while walnuts provide a slightly deeper nutty taste.
Chill properly: Don’t rush the refrigeration step. A well-chilled dessert will be easier to slice and serve.
Use a sharp knife: For cleaner portions, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts if necessary.
Easy Variations
Hazelnut Version
Use roasted chopped hazelnuts for a stronger nutty flavor and extra crunch.
Walnut Version
Walnuts work beautifully with the rich chocolate cream and give the dessert a slightly more pronounced nutty taste.
Extra Chocolate
For a more indulgent finish, you can add a thin layer of melted chocolate on top and allow it to set before serving.
Individual Portions
Instead of using one large pan, divide the biscuit base and cream between small serving glasses for individual desserts.
How to Serve
Cut the chilled dessert into small squares and serve cold.
It pairs especially well with:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Fresh berries
- Sliced bananas
- A light dusting of cocoa powder
Because the dessert is rich and creamy, relatively small portions can be enough.
Storage
Keep the dessert covered and refrigerated.
For the best texture and freshness, enjoy it within a few days. Always follow normal food-safety practices when storing desserts containing dairy products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only hazelnuts?
Yes. Hazelnuts are an excellent choice if you want a stronger chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
Can I prepare it the day before?
Yes. Preparing the dessert in advance can actually make serving easier because the cream has more time to firm up in the refrigerator.
Does the dessert need to be baked?
No. This version is assembled and chilled rather than baked.
Can I make individual servings?
Absolutely. Small glasses or dessert cups are a convenient option for parties and family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Nutella and hazelnut dessert brings together simple ingredients to create a rich, creamy, and satisfying treat.
The combination of a biscuit base, smooth Nutella cream, and crunchy nuts makes it especially appealing to chocolate lovers. Since it can be prepared ahead of time and served chilled, it is a practical choice for everything from casual coffee breaks to family celebrations.
If you enjoy easy homemade desserts with chocolate and nuts, this recipe is a delicious one to keep on hand. 🍫🌰