Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt; Fresh fruit (strawberries, bananas, apples); Marshmallows; Bite-sized pieces of cake or cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue because it creates such a delightful experience around the table. The rich, velvety chocolate paired with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts makes every dip an indulgent treat. Whether it’s a cozy night with family or a gathering with friends, this fondue brings everyone together for a delicious, interactive dessert. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make! Just a few ingredients and some simple steps transform into a gourmet dish in minutes.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:04:17.424Z

Creating this Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue was a delightful experiment that allowed me to merge my love for chocolate and hazelnuts into a single, decadent dessert. The smoothness of the melted chocolate combined with the toasted hazelnut flavor is something I couldn't resist presenting at my last get-together. I found that gently warming the chocolate in a double boiler yields the creamiest texture, which is essential for perfect dipping.

While preparing this fondue, I noticed that adding a pinch of sea salt enhances the flavor, making the chocolate even richer. I recommend serving it with fresh fruit, marshmallows, or even chunks of cake for a delightful dipping experience! Just ensure everything is bite-sized so that it’s easy to enjoy every last drop of this heavenly treat.

        Why You'll Love This Fondue
        Decadent blend of chocolate and hazelnuts
Interactive dessert perfect for gatherings
Easily customizable with your favorite dippers

      

Perfecting the Chocolate Mixture

Achieving the right consistency for the chocolate fondue is key to a smooth, luscious dip. When melting the chocolate and cream, ensure the heat is low to medium to avoid scorching. It's important to stir continuously, as this helps the chocolate meld seamlessly with the cream, preventing any graininess. The mixture should become glossy and velvety, signaling that it’s ready for the next step.

If you find the fondue too thick after it's melted, don’t panic! You can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more cream, heating it gently until fully incorporated. Conversely, if it’s too thin, a little additional chopped chocolate can help thicken it up. This is a flexible process, so don’t hesitate to tweak it to your preferred texture.

Choosing the Best Dippers

The magic of fondue lies in its versatility; the dippers can change the entire flavor experience. For fresh fruit, choose varieties that have a natural sweetness and a little acidity; strawberries and apples are great choices because they cut through the richness of the chocolate. If you want to add more texture, consider roasted nuts or pretzel bites for a salty contrast.

For a decadent twist, you can also use flavored cake pieces, such as chocolate or hazelnut cake, to complement the fondue. If you're catering to dietary restrictions, gluten-free cookies or fruit skewers offer great alternatives without sacrificing taste. Experimenting with different combinations can make each dipping experience uniquely delightful.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover fondue, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the mixture in a double boiler over low heat, stirring frequently until it regains its silky texture. Avoid the microwave as it can cause the chocolate to become lumpy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fondue. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container and it can last for up to two months. To reheat after freezing, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently as mentioned above. With just a few simple steps, you can relive the fondue experience days later, making it a worthwhile indulgence!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue:

Ingredients

8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Fresh fruit (strawberries, bananas, apples)
Marshmallows
Bite-sized pieces of cake or cookies

Make sure all your dippers are ready before serving for an instant sweet experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your fondue:

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler over simmering water, combine the chopped chocolate and heavy cream. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Add Flavors

Remove the bowl from heat and mix in the hazelnut spread, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.

Serve

Transfer the chocolate mixture to a fondue pot or a heatproof serving bowl. Keep warm, and serve with fresh fruits, marshmallows, and cake pieces for dipping.

Don’t forget to keep the fondue warm while serving, so it remains perfectly dippable!

Pro Tips

For added variety, try incorporating a splash of liqueur, such as Frangelico, for a more pronounced hazelnut flavor.

Ingredient Functions

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue plays a crucial role in creating a balanced flavor profile. Semisweet chocolate provides the rich, decadent backbone, while heavy cream adds creaminess and helps to achieve the perfect dip consistency. The hazelnut spread brings in an irresistible nutty sweetness, transforming the fondue into a more complex combination of flavors.

Vanilla extract adds a layer of warmth that enhances the overall chocolate experience, while the pinch of sea salt works wonders in amplifying the sweetness and balancing the chocolate's richness. This synergy of flavors and textures is what makes this fondue such an esteemed dessert choice!

Flavor Variations

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding flavored extracts such as almond or orange for a unique twist. Just a few drops can dramatically alter the taste profile, offering another layer of invigorating flavor to the indulgent chocolate. Pairing different types of chocolate can also change the overall experience; feel free to combine dark and milk chocolate for a more nuanced flavor.

For a spiced version, a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of coffee liqueur can elevate the fondue to new heights. These variations not only keep the recipe exciting but also allow you to cater to different tastes and occasions.

Making It a Meal

If you want to make this fondue a little more substantial, consider accompanying it with savory elements. Bite-sized pieces of crackers or cheese can create a delightful juxtaposition to the sweet chocolate and hazelnut. It's a unique way to present fondue while inviting guests to explore a range of flavor combinations.

Hosting a fondue night? Set up a mini buffet with an array of diverse dippers. Encourage your guests to create their own combinations, making the experience interactive. Their creativity can lead to surprising new flavor pairings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate; just keep in mind it may be sweeter than semisweet chocolate.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving again.

→ What can I dip in fondue?

You can dip fruits, marshmallows, cookies, pretzels, or pieces of cake—let your creativity flow!

→ Is it possible to make this fondue vegan?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate that is dairy-free, and replace heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream.