Hazelnut Chocolate Custard with Hazelnut Praline Crunch

Hazelnut Chocolate Custard with Hazelnut Praline Crunch is a delectable dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and hazelnut with a crunchy praline topping. This dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients (serves 4):

- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup hazelnut praline crunch (recipe below)


For the Hazelnut Praline Crunch:

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, sugar, and cocoa powder. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
5. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or bowl.
6. Divide the custard evenly among four ramekins or oven-safe dishes.
7. Place the ramekins in a large baking dish and fill the dish with enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custards are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
9. Remove the ramekins from the water bath and let cool to room temperature.
10. Meanwhile, make the hazelnut praline crunch. In a small saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat until it melts and turns a deep amber color.
11. Stir in the chopped hazelnuts and immediately pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
12. Let the praline cool completely, then break it into small pieces.
13. To serve, sprinkle the hazelnut praline crunch over the top of each custard.
This Hazelnut Chocolate Custard with Hazelnut Praline Crunch is a decadent and indulgent dessert that is perfect for any chocolate lover. The custard is rich and creamy, with a deep chocolate flavor that is perfectly complemented by the nutty crunch of the hazelnuts. The praline topping adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture, making this dish a true showstopper.
Type of dish: Dessert
Main ingredients: Hazelnuts, Chocolate, Cream