This hazelnut chocolate fudge is all about smooth texture, gentle sweetness, and that unmistakable nutty aroma. Made with rich milk-style chocolate, finely chopped hazelnuts, and a hint of hazelnut extract or emulsion, each square melts softly while still offering a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy, no-fuss candy recipe that feels special enough for gifting but simple enough to make anytime a chocolate craving hits.
🍫 Hazelnut Chocolate Fudge
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Heatproof spatula
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- knife
Ingredients
- 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ tsp hazelnut extract OR 1 tsp hazelnut emulsion
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup chopped hazelnuts toasted recommended
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter.
- Stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in hazelnut extract or emulsion, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Fold in chopped hazelnuts, reserving a small handful for topping if desired.
- Pour fudge into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Sprinkle remaining hazelnuts over the surface and gently press them in.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
- Lift fudge out using parchment, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Hazelnut emulsion provides a stronger, more bakery-style flavor than extract and is preferred if available.
- Toast hazelnuts before chopping to enhance their nutty aroma and crunch.
- Stir constantly while melting to prevent scorching or grainy texture.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the smoothest fudge.
- For cleaner slices, chill the fudge thoroughly and wipe the knife between cuts.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust how strong the hazelnut flavor is?
Yes. For a lighter flavor, reduce the hazelnut extract or emulsion slightly. For a more pronounced nutty taste, you can add an extra pinch of hazelnut extract or increase the amount of chopped hazelnuts.
Is this fudge closer to milk chocolate or dark chocolate?
This recipe is designed to have a milk-chocolate flavor profile, but you can easily adjust it by swapping some or all of the chocolate chips for darker chocolate.
Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?
No. This is a stovetop melt-and-stir fudge, so there’s no need for temperature monitoring or candy-making experience.
Can I add other mix-ins besides hazelnuts?
Absolutely. Chopped wafers, crushed cookies, or even mini marshmallows can be folded in for extra texture and flavor variety.
How long does it take for the fudge to fully firm up?
The fudge typically sets within 2 hours in the refrigerator, but letting it chill overnight will make slicing even easier.
Is this recipe good for gifting?
Yes. The fudge holds its shape well, making it ideal for gift boxes, dessert platters, or holiday tins.
More Fudge Favorites to Try
If you’re loving rich, creamy fudge, you might also enjoy these colorful and flavor-packed recipes from Sugar Cloud Baking:
- Sugar Cookie Latte Fudge – A cozy, coffee-inspired fudge with sweet sugar cookie flavor
https://sugarcloudbaking.com/2025/11/24/sugar-cookie-latte-fudge/ - Root Beer Float Fudge – A nostalgic twist combining creamy fudge with classic root beer flavor
https://sugarcloudbaking.com/2025/11/22/root-beer-float-fudge/ - Raspberry Lemon Cheesecake Fudge – Bright raspberry and lemon blended with smooth cheesecake fudge
https://sugarcloudbaking.com/2025/12/23/raspberry-lemon-cheesecake-fudge/ - Cotton Candy Marshmallow Sprinkle Fudge – A fun, pastel fudge loaded with marshmallows and sprinkles
https://sugarcloudbaking.com/2025/12/23/cotton-candy-marshmallow-sprinkle-fudge/
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