If you’re looking for a luxurious homemade treat that’s both elegant and indulgent, chocolate hazelnut truffles are the answer. With a smooth, rich ganache centre and the irresistible crunch of roasted hazelnuts, these bite-sized delights are perfect for special occasions or a simple treat to satisfy your sweet cravings.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a professional, step-by-step process to make chocolate hazelnut truffles at home. Designed for a UK audience, this recipe is easy to follow and uses accessible ingredients. Whether you’re making them as a gift or for your own enjoyment, these truffles are guaranteed to impress.
Why Make Truffles at Home?
Store-bought truffles can be expensive and often contain preservatives, palm oil, or artificial flavourings. By making them at home, you have full control over the ingredients, quality, and flavour profile. Plus, homemade chocolate truffles feel special—they’re a thoughtful, handcrafted treat that shows care and creativity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for approximately 20 truffles:
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200g dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
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100ml double cream
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1 tbsp unsalted butter
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60g roasted hazelnuts, finely chopped
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1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
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Pinch of sea salt
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Cocoa powder, chopped hazelnuts, or melted chocolate (for coating)
Tip: Use good-quality dark chocolate for best results. Brands like Green & Black’s or Lindt are widely available in the UK and ideal for truffle-making.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Roast the Hazelnuts
If your hazelnuts aren’t pre-roasted, spread them on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Rub them in a tea towel to remove the skins. Finely chop and set aside.
2. Prepare the Ganache
Break the chocolate into small pieces and place in a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan, heat the double cream until it just starts to simmer—don’t let it boil. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.
Add the butter, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until the butter is melted and the ganache is silky. Stir in half of the chopped roasted hazelnuts.
3. Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl and place the ganache in the fridge for 2–3 hours, or until firm enough to scoop. For best texture, avoid freezing as it can affect the truffles’ smoothness.
4. Shape the Truffles
Once chilled, use a teaspoon or melon baller to scoop small amounts of ganache. Roll quickly between your hands to form smooth balls. This step can get a bit messy, so consider wearing food-safe gloves if desired.
Place the formed truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Coat the Truffles
You can customise your truffles with different coatings. Here are a few suggestions:
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Roll in cocoa powder for a classic finish.
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Dip in melted chocolate and sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts for extra crunch.
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Roll in crushed hazelnuts for a nutty outer layer.
Allow coated truffles to set completely before serving.
Storage Tips
Store your chocolate hazelnut truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Bring them to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to enjoy the full flavour and texture.
If you’re gifting them, truffles can be placed in paper cases and boxed up neatly. Add a ribbon or a handwritten tag for a charming, personal touch.
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate hazelnut truffles are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them:
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With a cup of espresso or afternoon tea.
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As a decadent dessert bite after dinner.
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Packaged as a homemade gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or Christmas.
For an extra special treat, pair them with a glass of dessert wine or a rich, nutty liqueur like Frangelico.
Tips for Success
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Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother ganache.
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Avoid overheating the cream, as boiling can cause separation.
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Use a high-quality chocolate—it makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
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Work quickly when shaping—the ganache melts fast in warm hands.
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Experiment with coatings to add variety to your batch.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate hazelnut truffles are a timeless confection that blend rich chocolate and roasted nuts into something truly special. Making them at home is simpler than it sounds and gives you complete creative control. Whether you’re crafting them for a festive gathering, a romantic gesture, or just an indulgent treat for yourself, these truffles deliver both elegance and flavour.
Handmade with love and made from quality ingredients, homemade chocolate hazelnut truffles offer an unforgettable gourmet experience—right from your own kitchen in the UK.