HOMEMADE HAZELNUT CHOCOLATES

Ingredients

Chocolates

150 grams (5.30 ounces) whole and chopped hazelnuts
150 grams (5.30 ounces) chocolate or nutty waffles
150 grams (5.30 ounces) Nutella (better homemade)
150 grams (5.30 ounces) milk chocolate (can be replaced with dark chocolate)

Equipment

Blender or Food Processor
Essential for chopping the hazelnuts and grinding the waffles to achieve the perfect texture.
Mixing Bowls
You'll need a couple of mixing bowls to combine and chill the ingredients. Opt for metal bowls for faster cooling.
Microwave or Double Boiler
A microwave or double boiler is needed to melt the chocolate. Melting in a microwave requires short pulses to prevent burning.
Toothpicks
Toothpicks are handy for dipping the chocolates into the melted chocolate without a mess.
Parchment Paper
Parchment paper is great for placing the dipped chocolates to cool and set, making clean-up a breeze.

Instructions

Step 1

Everyone loves the famous Ferrero chocolates with a whole hazelnut in the center. But not many people know how easy they are to make at home! This recipe is straightforward, using four ingredients, each weighing 150 grams (5.30 ounces).

Step 2

Tip: Using homemade Nutella gives an extra touch of love to these chocolates.

Step 3

You will need: 150 grams (5.30 ounces) whole and chopped hazelnuts, 150 grams (5.30 ounces) chocolate or nutty waffles, 150 grams (5.30 ounces) Nutella, 150 grams (5.30 ounces) milk chocolate.

Step 4

1. Roast or dry-fry the hazelnuts. Leave half whole, and chop the other half using a blender.

Step 5

Tip: Roasting the hazelnuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor.

Step 6

2. Grind the waffles using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin.

Step 7

Tip: Make sure to grind the waffles finely so the mixture holds together better.

Step 8

3. Mix the ground waffles with the chopped hazelnuts and Nutella. Place this mixture in the fridge for an hour to firm up.

Step 9

Tip: Cooling the mixture makes it easier to shape into balls later.

Step 10

4. Melt the milk chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in short pulses, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 11

Tip: Be careful not to overheat the chocolate; it should be smooth and glossy.

Step 12

5. Remove the mixture from the fridge and shape it into balls, placing a whole hazelnut in the center of each.

Step 13

Tip: Slightly wet your hands to prevent the mixture from sticking while forming the balls.

Step 14

6. Use a toothpick to dip each ball into the melted chocolate, making sure it is fully coated. Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts or roll the chocolates in them for an extra crunch.

Step 15

Tip: Work quickly when dipping the balls to prevent the chocolate from hardening prematurely.

Step 16

7. Place the chocolates on parchment paper and return them to the fridge for another hour to set.

Step 17

Tip: Letting the chocolates set in the fridge ensures they achieve the perfect consistency.

Step 18

Enjoy your homemade Ferrero chocolates!

Step 19

Bonus Tip: Feel free to vary the amount of ingredients or add leftovers like biscuit scraps to create unique variations, such as chocolate cake-pops.

Servings

Picture this: a plate of homemade Ferrero Rocher chocolates, perfectly round and glistening with a coat of rich melted chocolate, each topped with a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts. These little delights are perfect for any celebration - from holiday gatherings to parties, or even as a sophisticated treat for a cozy night in. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of red wine to elevate your dessert game. Alternatively, you could use these homemade chocolates as a topping for your favorite ice cream or as an indulgent addition to a dessert platter. For a festive touch, wrap them in gold foil and present them as gifts; they're guaranteed to impress!

Variations

For a gluten-free variation of this recipe, simply swap out the waffles with gluten-free wafers or your favorite gluten-free biscuits. Ensure that all other ingredients, like Nutella and chocolate, are certified gluten-free. To make these chocolates vegan, replace the Nutella with a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread, and use dairy-free chocolate for melting. Opt for vegan wafers or gluten-free vegan biscuits to ensure the treats are entirely plant-based. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious homemade Ferrero Rocher-style chocolates, regardless of dietary preferences!

Faq

Why is my melted chocolate seizing or becoming grainy?
This can happen if water comes into contact with the chocolate or if it’s overheated. Ensure your tools are completely dry and melt the chocolate in short bursts or using a double boiler.
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, you can! Almonds or pecans would also work well for a different flavor profile, although the classic taste of Ferrero Rocher comes from hazelnuts.
How can I make the chocolates evenly round?
Using a small cookie scoop to portion out the mixture before rolling helps in making evenly sized balls. Quickly chill them in the fridge before dipping for easier handling.
What’s the best way to store these homemade chocolates?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I double the recipe without compromising the quality?
Absolutely! Just make sure you proportionally increase each of the four main ingredients to maintain the balance of flavors and textures.
How can I make my own Nutella at home?
Simply blend roasted hazelnuts with cocoa powder, sweetener of choice, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with a little oil if necessary.