A rich, layered chocolate treat featuring a silky hazelnut ganache over a crisp, nut-studded base. These bars offer a luxurious texture contrast and deep chocolate flavour while remaining simple to prepare at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A perfect balance of smooth chocolate and crunchy hazelnut layers.
Easy, no-bake preparation that feels impressively elegant.
Make-ahead friendly and ideal for gifting, gatherings, or personal indulgence.
Uses accessible ingredients while delivering a refined, café-style dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Optional: whole toasted hazelnuts or hazelnut praline for topping
Directions
Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Melt the semisweet and bittersweet chocolates in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, stirring until smooth.
Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour over the melted chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
Whisk in the butter until the ganache becomes glossy and smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine the chocolate-hazelnut spread, feuilletine, and chopped hazelnuts. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crunchy base.
Pour the ganache over the base and smooth the top. Add optional toppings if desired.
Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until fully set.
Remove from the pan and cut into bars.
Servings and timing
Makes about 12 bars, depending on how they are cut.
Active prep time: 20–30 minutes
Chilling time: 1–2 hours
Total time: 1.5–2.5 hours
Variations
Use milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier result.
Swap hazelnuts for almonds or pistachios for a different nut profile.
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-savory touch.
Include chopped dried fruit such as cherries or apricots in the base for extra flavour.
Make bite-sized squares for parties or gifting.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days.
If you prefer a softer texture, let the bars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
No reheating is needed—these bars are best served chilled or slightly softened.
FAQs
1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes. Simply replace feuilletine with a gluten-free crisp option such as puffed rice.
2. Can I freeze the bars?
Yes. Freeze for up to 2 months, tightly wrapped. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
3. What can I use instead of feuilletine?
Crushed crispy wafer cookies or crisped rice cereal work well as substitutes.
4. Can I use only one type of chocolate?
Yes. You can use all semisweet or all bittersweet as long as the total weight remains the same.
5. How firm will the ganache be?
It will set firm enough to slice cleanly but still remain soft and smooth when eaten.
6. Can these sit out at room temperature?
They can for a short time, but they hold their shape best when kept chilled, especially in warm weather.
7. Should I cut them before or after chilling?
Always cut them after they’ve fully chilled to ensure neat, clean slices.
8. What size pan is best?
An 8-inch (20 cm) square pan gives the best thickness and texture.
9. Can I add toppings?
Yes. Toasted hazelnuts, praline pieces, sea salt, or cocoa nibs all work beautifully.
10. How do I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, wiping the blade between each cut.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Bars offer a luxurious combination of smooth chocolate, nutty richness, and irresistible crunch. With simple preparation steps and a beautifully layered finish, they make an impressive treat for any occasion. Enjoy each decadent, satisfying bite.
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Bars are a no-bake layered dessert featuring a crispy hazelnut and feuilletine base topped with silky ganache. These bars are rich, crunchy, and elegant—perfect for gifting or indulging.
