Chocolate Hazelnut Torte Recipe
A Rich Chocolate Hazelnut Torte for Any Special Occasion
This chocolate hazelnut torte is a rich, flourless-style dessert made for true chocolate lovers. Finished with a smooth ganache glaze and toasted hazelnuts, it has a dense, fudgy texture that slices beautifully while still feeling deeply indulgent and elegant.
It is a beautiful dessert for holidays, dinner parties or any meal that deserves a memorable final course.
Ingredients
Chocolate Torte Base
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Unsalted butter for greasing pan
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Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
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115g (½ cup) unsalted butter
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140g (5 oz) dark or semisweet chocolate, chopped
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100g (½ cup) granulated sugar
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3 large eggs
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30g cocoa powder
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1½ tbsp cornstarch
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¼ tsp baking powder
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¼ tsp fine sea salt
Chocolate Ganache
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420 ml (1¾ cups) heavy cream
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170g (6 oz) dark or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
To Finish
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Toasted hazelnuts, roughly chopped
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Unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for dusting)
Baking Instructions
1) Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Butter a 9-inch cake pan and line the base with parchment paper. Lightly dust with cocoa powder.
2) Melt the butter and chocolate together until smooth and fully combined. Whisk in the sugar until dissolved. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until the batter is glossy and slightly thickened.
3) In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture just until incorporated.
4) Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the center is just set. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
5) To make the ganache, heat the cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour over the chopped chocolate and let sit for one minute, then stir until smooth and fully emulsified.
6) Pour the ganache over the cooled torte and spread evenly. Sprinkle generously with toasted chopped hazelnuts. Chill until fully set.
7) Slice cold or slightly chilled for clean cuts and best texture.
Perfect Pairings for Chocolate Hazelnut Torte
This chocolate hazelnut torte pairs beautifully with fresh berries, lightly whipped cream, espresso, or a glass of dessert wine. The bright acidity of berries like raspberries or strawberries helps balance the richness of the chocolate, while a dollop of softly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense texture. A strong cup of espresso enhances the deep cocoa flavors, and a sweet dessert wine can elevate the entire experience into something truly indulgent.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
Its rich, fudgy texture makes it a wonderful choice for holidays, dinner parties, romantic dinners, birthdays, anniversaries and special celebrations where you want a dessert that feels polished without being overly complicated. Whether you're hosting an elegant gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this torte delivers a sense of sophistication and comfort. Its impressive appearance and decadent flavor make it a standout centerpiece that guests will remember long after the last bite.