There’s something undeniably comforting about the creamy decadence of a Nutella tart, especially when paired with a crunch of toasted hazelnut crust. One day while leisurely browsing through my pantry, I discovered a jar of Nutella begging to be transformed into something extraordinary. The idea of creating a dessert that’s not only indulgent but also surprisingly easy to whip up was too tempting to resist.
This Nutella tart became a delightful centerpiece at my recent gathering, where the rich flavors and inviting aroma had everyone reaching for seconds. Imagine the silky filling melting in your mouth, juxtaposed against the satisfying crunch of the perfectly baked crust. It’s the kind of dessert that brings a smile to faces young and old alike, making it a perfect choice for any occasion—or even just a cozy night in.
Join me as we dive into this easy-to-make recipe that promises to elevate your dessert game, leaving fast food far behind. You won’t believe how quickly you can create this crowd-pleaser that feels utterly gourmet. Let’s get started!
Why will you love this Nutella Tart?
Indulging in decadence: This Nutella tart is a heavenly dessert that combines rich, creamy filling with a crispy hazelnut crust—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings!
Easy to create: You’ll find that this recipe is simple enough for beginners, making it a fantastic choice for home cooks looking to impress.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a family gathering or a dinner party, this tart will steal the show and have everyone asking for the recipe.
Versatile option: Serve it at any occasion or enjoy it as a delightful treat after a long day—a great way to elevate everyday moments!
If you’d like to expand your dessert repertoire, you may also enjoy exploring foolproof baking recipes that are just as satisfying.
Nutella Tart Ingredients
• Create your perfect Nutella Tart with these straightforward ingredients!
For the Crust
• Chopped unsalted hazelnuts – a nutty base that adds delightful crunch and flavor.
• All-purpose flour – provides structure and helps create a flaky crust.
• Granulated sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the nuttiness.
• Salt – enhances the overall flavors for a more balanced taste.
• Unsalted butter – cold and cubed for a perfectly flaky crust texture.
• Ice water – helps combine the ingredients to form a nice dough.
For the Filling
• Cornstarch – thickens the filling for that luxurious, creamy texture.
• Heavy cream – ensures a rich and smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
• Nutella – the star ingredient that brings a rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
• Salt – a pinch brings out the sweetness and depth of the filling.
• Pure vanilla extract – adds warm, aromatic notes to enhance flavor.
How to Make Nutella Tart
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (149°C). This initial step is crucial for toasting the hazelnuts properly, which contributes to the crust’s flavor.
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Toast hazelnuts: Spread the chopped hazelnuts on a lined baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they’re slightly darkened. Allow them to cool for 5 minutes before increasing the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C).
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Prepare the crust: In a food processor, pulse 3/4 cup of the toasted hazelnuts along with the flour, sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Reserve 1/4 cup of the nuts for topping later.
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Mix dough: Add the cold butter to the hazelnut mixture and pulse until it forms pea-sized crumbs. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and slowly stir in 3 Tablespoons of ice water until the dough comes together.
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Shape crust: Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan, ensuring it’s tightly packed. Line the crust with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place pie weights on top to prevent bubbling.
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Bake crust: Bake the crust with pie weights for 18-20 minutes. Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack as you prepare the filling.
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Make the filling: In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. In a medium saucepan, combine this mixture with the remaining heavy cream, Nutella, and salt over medium heat. Whisk well and bring to a boil.
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Thicken filling: Keep boiling while whisking for about 3 minutes until the mixture thickens. Then, remove it from the heat and mix in the vanilla extract before pouring it into the prepared crust.
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Chill: Place the tart in the refrigerator to chill for 3-4 hours or until set. This chilling time is essential for achieving that perfect, sliceable texture.
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Garnish: Once set, top your Nutella tart with the remaining chopped hazelnuts for an added crunch and visual appeal.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Nutella Tart Variations
Looking to add a personal touch to your indulgent Nutella tart? Here are some delightful ideas to inspire your creativity!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. You won’t lose any of that rich flavor!
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Nutty Boost: Swap in pecans or almonds for the crust to give your tart a unique twist—each nut brings its own character!
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Richer Chocolate: Add a layer of dark chocolate ganache on top of the filling for an extra luxurious dessert experience—chocolate lovers will rejoice!
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Fruity Twist: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries on the filling before chilling for a refreshing burst of fruity sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chocolate.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and dairy-free Nutella for a delicious vegan-friendly dessert that’s equally satisfying.
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Espresso Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder with the filling for a delightful coffee kick that enhances the chocolate flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising and delicious heat that makes every bite thrilling!
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Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top before chilling for a sweet, salty addition that’s pure decadence.
Feel free to experiment with these options and make this tart truly your own!
Storage Tips for Nutella Tart
Room Temperature: Store leftover Nutella tart at room temperature for up to 1 day, tightly covered to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Keep the Nutella tart in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container to preserve its creamy filling and crunchy crust.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the tart for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, allow the tart to thaw in the fridge overnight and serve cold or at room temperature for the best texture.
What to Serve with Nutella Tart?
Savor the sweet indulgence of a decadent Nutella tart while complementing it with delightful pairings that enhance your dessert experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture, perfectly balancing the richness of the tart.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against the warm nutty flavors, making every bite a dreamy treat.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries lend a tart contrast that cuts through the sweetness, adding a vibrant pop of color and taste.
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Espresso or Coffee: A robust cup of espresso or coffee pairs nicely, highlighting the chocolatey notes and offering a cozy, comforting finish.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling it over the tart amplifies chocolate lovers’ dreams, creating an even more indulgent experience with extra richness.
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Toasted Coconut Flakes: The subtle crunch and tropical flavor elevate the nutty elements, making each slice feel like a mini vacation for your taste buds.
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Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a refreshing finish that brightens the dessert, making it feel lighter and more vibrant.
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Hazelnut Liqueur: For adults, a splash of hazelnut liqueur alongside the tart can enhance the nutty flavors and warm up the evening.
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Milkshake: A rich chocolate milkshake echoes the flavors of the tart while offering a fun and nostalgic treat, perfect for sharing.
Expert Tips for Nutella Tart
Perfect Hazelnuts: Choose high-quality, fresh hazelnuts for optimal flavor. Stale nuts can dull the taste of this delicious Nutella tart.
Chill Time: Don’t rush the chilling period! It’s crucial for the filling to set properly and achieve the perfect sliceable texture.
Avoid Soggy Crust: Be sure to bake the crust with pie weights to prevent bubbling and ensure a crisp texture.
Substitutions: If you want a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serve with Style: Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt or cocoa powder for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella tarts are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy nights! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the crust ingredients and pressing it into the tart pan. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. For the filling, you can whisk together the cornstarch and heavy cream mixture and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the filling until hot, pour it into the pre-baked crust, and chill until set. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, ensuring your Nutella tart is just as delicious as if made fresh!
Nutella Tart with Toasted Hazelnut Crust Recipe FAQs
What type of hazelnuts should I use?
Absolutely! It’s best to use high-quality, unsalted hazelnuts for this recipe. Look for nuts that are fresh and free from dark spots or any signs of rancidity. If your grocery store offers roasted hazelnuts, those can save you time, but if you want a richer flavor, toasting raw hazelnuts as directed will elevate your tart even more.
How should I store leftover Nutella tart?
You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s placed in an airtight container to maintain its creamy filling and crunchy crust. If you prefer, you can also keep it at room temperature for up to 1 day, but be cautious as it may affect the texture over time.
Can I freeze the Nutella tart?
Definitely! To freeze your Nutella tart, first let it chill completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the tart in the refrigerator overnight and serve it cold or at room temperature.
What should I do if the filling doesn’t thicken properly?
If your filling doesn’t thicken as expected, it’s likely due to not heating it long enough. Make sure to whisk continuously while the mixture boils for at least 3 minutes. If it still doesn’t reach the desired consistency, you can always try adding a bit more cornstarch mixed with cream into the heated mixture, whisking until it thickens. Just be sure to let it boil again for a couple of minutes to cook that starch out!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! This Nutella tart contains gluten and dairy, so it’s not suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or lactose sensitivity. If you’re catering to guests with gluten sensitivities, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always double-check the Nutella label for any allergens, as it may contain soy or hazelnuts, which could be a concern for some.
Decadent Nutella Tart with Hazelnut Crust You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (149°C).
- Spread the chopped hazelnuts on a lined baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until slightly darkened.
- In a food processor, pulse 3/4 cup of toasted hazelnuts, flour, sugar, and salt until it resembles coarse meal.
- Add cold butter to hazelnut mixture and pulse until it forms pea-sized crumbs. Slowly stir in ice water.
- Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan. Line crust with foil and place pie weights on top.
- Bake the crust with pie weights for 18-20 minutes and let it cool on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Combine with remaining cream, Nutella, and salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Keep boiling while whisking for about 3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract.
- Pour filling into the prepared crust and refrigerate to chill for 3-4 hours until set.
- Top the tart with remaining chopped hazelnuts before serving.