Holiday Hazelnut Crunch Truffles with Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Garnish

These Holiday Hazelnut Crunch Truffles are decadent bite-sized treats made with smooth dark chocolate, finely chopped roasted hazelnuts, and a hint of sea salt. Their velvety texture and subtle crunch make them an elegant, irresistible dessert—perfect for holiday gifting, party platters, or a luxurious homemade indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These truffles are everything a holiday treat should be: rich, refined, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of silky chocolate and toasted hazelnuts provides both flavor and texture, while a sprinkle of sea salt enhances the overall experience. They’re easy to make, require no baking, and can be beautifully packaged for gifts or displayed at festive gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• good-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
• heavy cream
• unsalted butter
• vanilla extract
• finely chopped roasted hazelnuts
• cocoa powder (for rolling)
• sea salt flakes (for garnish)
• optional: hazelnut liqueur (such as Frangelico)

directions

1. In a heatproof bowl, place the chopped dark chocolate and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream and butter over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate.
3. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy. If using, stir in vanilla extract and a splash of hazelnut liqueur.
4. Fold in the finely chopped roasted hazelnuts.
5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1–2 hours or until the mixture is firm enough to scoop.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the chilled ganache and roll into 1-inch balls.
7. Roll each truffle in cocoa powder or additional chopped hazelnuts for coating.
8. Place back onto the tray and top each with a tiny pinch of sea salt.
9. Chill again until firm. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Makes approximately 20–24 truffles.

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours total
• Rolling and finishing: 20 minutes
  Total time: ~2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Dip the rolled truffles in melted chocolate for a firmer shell.
• Use milk or white chocolate for a sweeter variation.
• Add orange zest to the ganache for a citrusy twist.
• Replace hazelnuts with almonds, pecans, or walnuts.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Freeze for up to 2 months. Let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. These truffles do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use hazelnut spread (like Nutella) instead of chopped hazelnuts?

For best results, use roasted chopped hazelnuts for texture. Nutella can be used to flavor the ganache but will make the truffles softer.

Can I toast the hazelnuts myself?

Yes — spread whole hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Rub in a towel to remove skins, then chop.

Why isn’t my ganache setting properly?

Make sure your chocolate-to-cream ratio is correct. Too much cream will make it too soft. Chill until firm.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

Yes — heavy cream ensures the ganache sets properly. Substituting with milk or lighter creams may alter the texture.

How do I get smooth, evenly shaped truffles?

Use a small scoop, roll quickly with cool hands, and chill frequently if the mixture becomes too soft.

What’s the best chocolate to use?

Use high-quality dark chocolate with 60–70% cocoa. Avoid chocolate chips as they may contain stabilizers that affect texture.

Can I coat these in something other than cocoa powder?

Yes — try finely chopped nuts, shredded coconut, powdered sugar, or melted chocolate.

How far in advance can I make these?

Up to 5 days ahead is ideal. Keep chilled and let sit at room temperature just before serving.

Can I add flavor extracts?

Yes — hazelnut, almond, or orange extract works well. Use sparingly (about ½ tsp) to avoid overpowering the chocolate.

How do I package these for gifts?

Place each truffle in a mini paper liner and pack in a small tin or gift box lined with wax paper. Keep refrigerated until gifting.

Conclusion

Holiday Hazelnut Crunch Truffles are the perfect fusion of creamy dark chocolate and nutty flavor, finished with a touch of sea salt for a sophisticated bite. Easy to make yet incredibly luxurious, these truffles are perfect for gifting, hosting, or simply treating yourself to a little holiday decadence.

Holiday Hazelnut Crunch Truffles with Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Garnish

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Holiday Hazelnut Crunch Truffles are decadent no-bake treats made with creamy dark chocolate, roasted hazelnuts, and crispy cereal for added crunch. Finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, these elegant truffles make perfect holiday gifts or party bites.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
• Yield: 24 truffles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup finely chopped roasted hazelnuts
• 1/2 cup crispy rice cereal
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother texture)
• Flaky sea salt, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a heatproof bowl, add chopped dark chocolate.
2. In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Add coconut oil (if using) and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Fold in chopped hazelnuts and crispy rice cereal.
5. Refrigerate the mixture for 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form 1-inch balls, rolling between your hands to smooth.
7. Place truffles on a parchment-lined tray and sprinkle each with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
8. Chill for another 15–20 minutes to set, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

• Use high-quality dark chocolate (60–70%) for the best flavor.
• To roast hazelnuts, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, then rub skins off with a towel.
• Truffles can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 truffle
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 35mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg