If you adore the rich, nutty flavors of hazelnuts combined with the decadent smoothness of chocolate, then this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. This dessert brings together a luscious, creamy filling made from velvety silken tofu and vegan chocolate, all nestled within a perfectly crumbly, cacao-infused crust. It’s a dairy-free, egg-free delight that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture, proving that plant-based treats can be just as indulgent and satisfying as traditional ones. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply craving a show-stopping dessert, this tart ticks all the boxes with its nutty depth, chocolatey richness, and a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and appearance that makes the tart truly irresistible.
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all purpose flour (or regular all purpose flour if not GF): This forms the sturdy yet crumbly base of the tart, giving it structure without overpowering the filling.
- ¼ cup cacao powder: Adds a rich, chocolatey depth to the crust with a slight bitterness to balance the sweet filling.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Brings a gentle caramel note that complements the hazelnut flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances every flavor, making the chocolate and hazelnut pop beautifully.
- 4 tablespoons vegan butter: Keeps the crust tender and gives it that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut butter: Infuses the crust with a subtle nutty aroma and taste that ties the whole tart together.
- 8.8 oz vegan chocolate: The star player in the filling, providing a smooth, chocolaty richness that’s totally addictive.
- 12.5 oz silken tofu: Acts as the creamy base for the filling, lending a luscious texture without any dairy.
- ½ cup hazelnut butter: Brings an intense hazelnut flavor and creamy consistency to the filling.
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a delicate hint of maple that balances the tart’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Layers in warm, sweet notes that meld perfectly with chocolate and hazelnut.
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt: Again in the filling, this pinch sharpens the flavors and prevents the sweetness from becoming cloying.
- Vegan chocolate shavings (for garnish): Adds a touch of decorative elegance and extra chocolate punch.
- Chopped hazelnuts (for garnish): Provide delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- Edible flowers such as pansies (for garnish): Bring a whimsical, colorful touch that makes the tart stunning for special occasions.
How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the gluten-free (or regular) flour, cacao powder, brown sugar, and sea salt in a mixing bowl. Cut in the vegan butter and hazelnut butter until you achieve a crumbly, sandy texture. Press this mixture evenly into a tart pan to form the base. The combination of butter and hazelnut butter here is key—it gives the crust a rich, nutty aroma and crumbly bite that forms a perfect foundation for the creamy filling.
Step 2: Chill the Crust
Put the crust in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes so it sets nicely, which helps it hold its shape when you fill it later. This simple chill time ensures your tart will slice cleanly and have that delightful firm-to-bite texture we all love.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a blender or food processor, combine the vegan chocolate (melted beforehand), silken tofu, hazelnut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Blend until incredibly smooth and silky, ensuring every ingredient melds beautifully. The silken tofu creates this luxuriously creamy texture without any dairy, making it a perfect vegan filling that tastes like pure indulgence.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
Pour the creamy filling over the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula. This filling is luscious and thick, so it sets well once chilled but still feels creamy and decadent in every bite.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible, to let the filling firm up and flavors meld. Patience here really pays off, as the chocolate and hazelnut flavors deepen, and the texture firms to a perfect sliceable consistency.
How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of vegan chocolate shavings and chopped hazelnuts adds beautiful texture and an extra burst of flavor that guests will notice and appreciate. Don’t skip the edible flowers—they elevate the tart with fresh color and an elegant vibe, making it perfect for celebrations or a special treat.
Side Dishes
Pair this tart with fresh berries or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream to contrast the rich chocolate with light, fruity brightness or creamy coolness. A simple cup of espresso or a pot of herbal tea also complements this dessert’s deep flavors beautifully, making it a complete experience that delights all the senses.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual tart slices on rustic wooden boards adorned with a drizzle of hazelnut butter or a dusting of cacao powder. For an extra special touch, serve the tart alongside a small bowl of warm berry compote to spoon over each slice. Little details like these elevate your dessert from delicious to utterly unforgettable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover tart covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually become more pronounced as it sits, so leftover slices taste fantastic even the next day. Just be sure to keep it chilled to preserve the creamy texture of the filling.
Freezing
You can freeze this Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and foil. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. The texture remains surprisingly good, though garnishes like flowers or fresh nuts should be added fresh after thawing.
Reheating
This tart is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer it slightly less chilled, let slices sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This lets the chocolate soften just enough for a melt-in-the-mouth experience while still holding its shape perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour if I’m not gluten-free?
Absolutely! The recipe works wonderfully with regular all-purpose flour. The texture will be very similar, just keep in mind that gluten flour may make the crust slightly more elastic but still delicious.
What type of vegan chocolate is best for this tart?
Use a high-quality, dairy-free dark chocolate with at least 60% cacao. It ensures rich flavor and smooth melting, which are crucial for the silky filling in this recipe.
Is silken tofu necessary, or can I substitute it?
Silken tofu is ideal because it blends into a creamy, smooth texture while staying firm when chilled. Alternatives like cashew cream could work, but the texture and flavor might differ slightly.
Can I make this tart nut-free?
This recipe heavily relies on hazelnut butter for flavor, so replacing it is tricky. However, you can try sunflower seed butter for a similar texture and mild nutty flavor if you have a nut allergy.
How long does the tart need to chill for best results?
Chilling for at least 4 hours is important for the filling to set properly. Overnight chilling is even better and intensifies the flavors beautifully, giving you that perfect slice every time.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe is a game changer for anyone craving an elegant, dairy-free dessert that’s full of rich, indulgent flavor. It’s a recipe I always come back to because it’s easy to make, beautiful to serve, and absolutely delicious every single time. Trust me, once you try it, this tart will hold a special place in your dessert repertoire, impressing friends and family alike with its luscious texture and irresistible chocolate-hazelnut harmony. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Chocolate Hazelnut Tart (Vegan) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
This decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Tart is a vegan and gluten-free dessert that combines a rich, velvety chocolate filling with a crisp, nutty crust. Made with wholesome ingredients like silken tofu, vegan butter, and hazelnut butter, this no-bake tart is perfect for gatherings or a special treat. Garnished with vegan chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts, and edible flowers, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups gluten-free all purpose flour (or regular all purpose flour if not gluten-free)
- ¼ cup cacao powder
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 4 tablespoons vegan butter
- 2 tablespoons hazelnut butter
Filling
- 8.8 oz vegan chocolate
- 12.5 oz silken tofu
- ½ cup hazelnut butter
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
Garnish
- Vegan chocolate shavings
- Chopped hazelnuts
- Edible flowers such as pansies
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free flour, cacao powder, brown sugar, and sea salt. Cut in the vegan butter and hazelnut butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the base and sides of a tart pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to help it set.
- Melt the chocolate: Gently melt the vegan chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Make the filling: In a blender or food processor, combine silken tofu, hazelnut butter, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and the melted vegan chocolate. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Assemble the tart: Pour the chocolate hazelnut filling into the chilled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Cover and refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours or until firmly set.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, decorate the top with vegan chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts, and edible flowers for an elegant presentation. Slice and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Use gluten-free flour to keep the tart gluten-free, or regular flour if gluten is not a concern.
- Silken tofu provides a creamy texture without dairy; ensure it’s fresh and well-drained.
- Maple syrup can be substituted with agave syrup or another liquid sweetener if preferred.
- For a firmer crust, bake it blind for 8-10 minutes at 350°F (optional, but not necessary).
- Store the tart in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
