Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue

Name: Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g milk chocolate, chopped; 100g hazelnut spread; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Assorted dippables (strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, pretzels, etc.)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love hosting gatherings, and one of my go-to treats is this Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue. It brings a delightful chocolate experience that everyone craves, transforming any ordinary evening into a special occasion. The combination of rich chocolate with the nutty flavor of hazelnut creates a dip that’s irresistible. I often serve it with an assortment of dippables like fruits, marshmallows, and pretzels, ensuring there's something for every guest to enjoy. Trust me, this fondue is a showstopper that will impress your friends and family!

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-07T15:07:13.440Z

When I first tried making fondue at home, I was desperate to replicate the smorgasbord of flavors from a local café I adored. After several experiments, I found that using high-quality chocolate and roasting the hazelnuts just right made all the difference. The results were a velvety texture that beautifully coats whatever you choose to dip.

One secret I discovered is to let the fondue rest for a few minutes after melting. This allows the flavors to meld and creates a smoother consistency. My friends still rave about this dish, and I love how simple it is to elevate any gathering with this magical chocolate delight.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent blend of chocolate and hazelnut for a perfect dip
Versatile for various dippables, from fruits to snacks
A fun and interactive dessert to share with friends

      

Perfecting the Fondue Texture

To achieve the perfect creamy texture for your chocolate hazelnut fondue, it’s essential to melt the chocolate slowly over low heat. Rushing this process can lead to a grainy consistency due to overheating. Stir continuously until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Using a heat-resistant spatula can help reach all the corners of the saucepan and prevent any lump formation.

If you find your fondue too thick after melting, gradually add more heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if the mixture is too thin, you can let it simmer on low heat for a couple more minutes to thicken up slightly, stirring continuously to avoid sticking or burning.

Dippable Pairings

Choosing the right dippables can elevate your fondue experience significantly. Fresh fruits like strawberries and bananas provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, while crunchy pretzels add texture and a salty bite that complements the sweetness beautifully. If you're looking for variety, you might also include sliced apples, orange segments, or even cubes of pound cake for a delightful twist.

For a fun twist, consider providing an assortment of dippables that cater to different tastes and preferences. To cater to dietary restrictions, you can substitute traditional dippables with gluten-free options such as rice cakes or even veggies like sliced bell peppers for a savory touch. Make sure to arrange everything on a large platter for a visually appealing spread.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g milk chocolate, chopped
100g hazelnut spread
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Assorted dippables (strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, pretzels, etc.)

Make sure to prepare your dippables ahead of time for easy enjoyment!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Chocolate Hazelnut Fondue:

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the dark chocolate, milk chocolate, hazelnut spread, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

Add the Salt

Once melted, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Stir well to incorporate.

Serve

Transfer the melted fondue to a serving bowl or a fondue pot. Arrange your assorted dippables around the bowl for easy access.

Enjoy the fondue warm, and feel free to mix different dippables for exciting flavor combinations!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a splash of liqueur like Frangelico to enhance the hazelnut flavor. Also, if the fondue cools down, simply reheat it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Storing Leftover Fondue

If you have any leftovers after your fondue feast, storing it properly is key to maintaining its texture and flavor. Allow the cooled fondue to come to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the fondue in a saucepan over low heat, stirring in a bit of heavy cream to restore that luscious, pourable consistency.

Freezing is not typically recommended for fondue, as it can cause a change in texture when thawed and reheated. However, if you must, ensure the fondue is in an airtight container and consume it within a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat slowly while stirring.

Variations on the Classic

While the chocolate and hazelnut blend is divine, don't hesitate to get creative with your fondue. Consider adding a splash of liqueur, like Frangelico or Amaretto, after the chocolate has melted for an adult twist. This addition will enhance flavor complexity and provide a unique depth to your dessert experience.

For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and replace the chocolate with high-quality dairy-free varieties. This alteration maintains a rich flavor while catering to vegan diets. Furthermore, experimenting with various flavored chocolate, such as orange or mint-infused, can provide a refreshing change to your classic chocolate hazelnut fondue.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can replace dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter fondue.

→ What can I use for dipping?

Fruits like strawberries or bananas, marshmallows, pretzels, and even biscuits work wonderfully!

→ How do I store leftover fondue?

Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat gently when you want to enjoy it again.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute dairy chocolate with vegan chocolate and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a vegan version.