Crispy, chocolate-coated truffles filled with rich hazelnut spread and finely chopped hazelnuts, these bite-sized treats are encased in a crunchy puffed rice and milk chocolate shell. Perfect for holidays, dessert platters, or simply a sweet indulgence at home, these truffles are a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chocolate hazelnut crunch truffles are more than just a sweet treat. They’re:
- Incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients
- Perfectly balanced between creamy, nutty, and crispy textures
- Freezer-friendly and ideal for make-ahead desserts
- A festive and crowd-pleasing homemade gift
- Customizable with different coatings and nut varieties
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
- 1/2 cup crushed wafer cookies
- 1/3 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
- 1 cup puffed rice cereal
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the hazelnut spread, crushed wafer cookies, and chopped hazelnuts until the mixture is uniform.
- Scoop out small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Freeze the truffle balls for 15 to 20 minutes, or until firm.
- Melt the milk chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl placed over simmering water, or microwave in intervals until smooth.
- Stir the puffed rice cereal into the melted chocolate until fully coated.
- Dip each truffle into the chocolate-rice mixture, using a fork to roll and lift them out. Return to the parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate the coated truffles for about 20 minutes, or until set.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
Servings: Approximately 20 truffles
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 40 minutes total
Total time: 55 minutes
Variations
- Dark chocolate version: Substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Nut-free option: Use a seed spread like sunflower seed butter and omit the chopped hazelnuts.
- Different coatings: Try crushed pretzels or cookie crumbs instead of puffed rice.
- Add a surprise center: Insert a whole hazelnut or caramel drop in the center of each truffle before freezing.
- Festive twist: Add colored sprinkles to the coating for holidays or parties.
storage/reheating
Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let frozen truffles thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. These truffles are meant to be enjoyed cold and do not require reheating.
FAQs
What can I use instead of hazelnut spread?
You can substitute with almond butter, peanut butter, or any chocolate spread of your choice.
Can I make these truffles ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge or freezer.
Do I need to temper the chocolate?
Tempering is not necessary for this recipe, especially since the truffles are chilled, which helps the coating set properly.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely. Dark chocolate works well and gives a more intense chocolate flavor.
Is coconut oil required?
No, it’s optional. Coconut oil simply helps the chocolate melt more smoothly.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Ensure no water comes in contact with the chocolate during melting. Use dry utensils and bowls.
Can I make these truffles gluten-free?
Yes, just make sure to use gluten-free wafer cookies.
How long do these truffles last?
They last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 2 months in the freezer.
What if I don’t have puffed rice?
You can use crushed cornflakes or crispy rice cereal as a substitute.
Are these suitable for gifting?
Definitely. Package them in decorative boxes or jars for a homemade holiday or special occasion gift.
Conclusion
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Truffles are an irresistible blend of rich, creamy hazelnut filling and crispy chocolate coating. Whether you’re preparing a festive dessert platter, need a quick make-ahead treat, or want to impress with a homemade edible gift, these truffles are sure to please. Easy to make, versatile, and incredibly indulgent—this is a recipe you’ll return to time and again.
Print
Chocolate Hazelnut Crunch Truffles
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 20 truffles 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, chocolate-coated truffles filled with rich hazelnut spread and chopped nuts, wrapped in a layer of puffed rice and milk chocolate—perfect for festive gifting or indulgent snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
- 1/2 cup crushed wafer cookies
- 1/3 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother coating)
- 1 cup puffed rice cereal
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix hazelnut spread, crushed wafer cookies, and chopped hazelnuts until well combined.
- Scoop small amounts and roll into balls. Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 15–20 minutes until firm.
- Melt milk chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave.
- Once smooth, stir in puffed rice cereal until evenly coated.
- Dip each frozen truffle into the chocolate mixture, rolling to coat completely. Use a fork to lift and place back on the parchment.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, about 20 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy chilled.
Notes
- Use gloves to roll truffles to prevent melting and sticking.
- You can use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Store truffles in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 truffle
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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