Picture this: velvety hazelnut gelato, a cherry center, wrapped in a rich, dark chocolate shell. Hazelnut tartufo is no ordinary dessert. It’s a layered delight that’ll have you reaching for seconds.
Hazelnut Tartufo Recipe Overview
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: Italian
- Total Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus freezing time)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare hazelnut tartufo like a pro, you’ll need these tools on hand:
- Mixing bowls
- Ice cream scoop
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Spoon
- Freezer
Ingredients
Let’s get down to the ingredients that make this dessert an absolute treat.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Hazelnut gelato | 2 cups |
| Dark chocolate chips | 1 cup |
| Coconut oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Cocoa powder | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped hazelnuts | 1/4 cup |
| Maraschino cherries | 4 |
Note: Use top-quality dark chocolate for a deeper, richer flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Gelato Centers
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop 1/2 cup portions of hazelnut gelato and form into balls.
- Insert a maraschino cherry into the center of each gelato ball.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.
Fact: Tartufo was first created in Pizzo, Italy. The original version encased fruit or chocolate inside layers of gelato.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth.
- Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly but keep it warm enough to coat the gelato balls evenly.
3. Coat the Gelato Balls
- Remove the frozen gelato balls from the freezer.
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Roll the chocolate-covered balls in cocoa powder and chopped hazelnuts.
Note: Freeze again for a firmer coating.
4. Freeze and Serve
- Place the coated gelato balls back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
- Freeze for an additional hour, allowing the chocolate coating to harden completely.
- When you’re ready to serve, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
Warning: Don’t skip the second freeze; it ensures the tartufo holds its shape when you serve it!
Additional Tips
- Freeze Ahead: Prepare the hazelnut tartufo in advance, so it’s ready for special occasions.
- Chocolate Variety: Feel free to swap out dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a milder taste.
- Hazelnut Gelato Alternative: Can’t find hazelnut gelato? Substitute with chocolate or vanilla gelato for a different twist.
Pairing Suggestions
A decadent hazelnut tartufo deserves a worthy companion. Here are a few options to consider:
- Espresso or coffee
- Fresh berries
- Vanilla whipped cream
- Crushed biscotti for extra crunch
Nutrition in Hazelnut Tartufo
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 24g |
Approximation: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Dietary Information
This hazelnut tartufo is:
- Vegetarian – Suitable for vegetarians
- Gluten-Free – Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free if needed
For a vegan-friendly version, swap regular gelato with a dairy-free alternative and opt for vegan chocolate chips.
FAQs about Hazelnut Tartufo
What is hazelnut tartufo?
Hazelnut tartufo is an Italian dessert featuring hazelnut gelato with a cherry center, coated in chocolate and dusted with cocoa powder.
Can I make hazelnut tartufo without gelato?
Yes, you can use a rich, creamy ice cream as a substitute if hazelnut gelato isn’t available.
Is hazelnut tartufo gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you check all ingredients for gluten.
How far in advance can I make hazelnut tartufo?
You can make it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the freezer until serving.
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Absolutely! Try almonds or pistachios for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap each tartufo in plastic wrap and keep it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week.
What’s the origin of tartufo?
Tartufo was invented in Pizzo, Calabria. This unique dessert became popular worldwide due to its layered flavors and texture.
Conclusion
That’s all there is to it! Crafting hazelnut tartufo at home is a rewarding way to bring a taste of Italy to your table. Give it a go, and prepare to impress.
Feel free to share your thoughts, questions, or tweaks on this recipe in the comments below—I’d love to hear your experience making this delightful dessert!
Check out some more delicious dessert recipes:
- Bourbon Creme Brulee Recipe
- Pie Charlotte Recipe: The Ultimate Classic Dessert
- 2 Ingredient Peanut Butter Frosting Recipe
- 2 Ingredient Marshmallow Fluff Recipe
- Cherry Mash Recipe
- Tempura Cheesecake Recipe
Hazelnut Tartufo Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Ice cream scoop
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Spoon
- Freezer
Ingredients
- 2 cups hazelnut gelato
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 4 maraschino cherries
Instructions
Prepare the Gelato Centers
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop 1/2 cup portions of hazelnut gelato and form into balls.
- Insert a maraschino cherry into the center of each gelato ball.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours until firm.
- Fact: Tartufo was first created in Pizzo, Italy. The original version encased fruit or chocolate inside layers of gelato.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating
- In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil together until smooth.
- Let the chocolate mixture cool slightly but keep it warm enough to coat the gelato balls evenly.
- See also Hot Cheetos Boudin Balls Recipe
Coat the Gelato Balls
- Remove the frozen gelato balls from the freezer.
- Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered.
- Roll the chocolate-covered balls in cocoa powder and chopped hazelnuts.
- Note: Freeze again for a firmer coating.
Freeze and Serve
- Place the coated gelato balls back onto the parchment-lined sheet.
- Freeze for an additional hour, allowing the chocolate coating to harden completely.
- When you’re ready to serve, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Warning: Don’t skip the second freeze; it ensures the tartufo holds its shape when you serve it!
Notes
- Freeze Ahead: Prepare the hazelnut tartufo in advance, so it’s ready for special occasions.
- Chocolate Variety: Feel free to swap out dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a milder taste.
- Hazelnut Gelato Alternative: Can’t find hazelnut gelato? Substitute with chocolate or vanilla gelato for a different twist.
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