These Chocolate Hazelnut Wafers are a delightful, guilt-free treat perfect for anyone following a low-carb, sugar-free, or gluten-free diet. With a rich blend of finely ground hazelnuts, cocoa, and sugar-free dark chocolate, they offer the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness. These crispy wafers are great as a dessert or snack, and they’re easy to make with just a handful of ingredients!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups finely ground hazelnuts
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sugar-free dark chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the finely ground hazelnuts, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Stir until everything is well blended.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the melted coconut oil, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until combined to form a dough.
Step 4: Shape the Wafers
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and flatten each one into a disc shape. Place the discs onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
Step 5: Bake the Wafers
Bake the wafers in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the tops are set. Remove from the oven and allow the wafers to cool completely on the baking sheet.
Step 6: Dip in Chocolate
While the wafers cool, melt the sugar-free dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or by microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
Once the wafers are cool, dip each one halfway into the melted chocolate. Place them back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Garnish and Set
Sprinkle the dipped portion of each wafer with chopped hazelnuts for a delicious crunch. Let the chocolate set at room temperature, or refrigerate the wafers for quicker firming.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Enjoy these wafers as a snack, dessert, or paired with your favorite coffee or tea. They’re great for satisfying chocolate cravings in a healthy way!
- Storage: Store the wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the wafers in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Double Boiler: If you don’t have a double boiler, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid burning.
- Hazelnuts: If you don’t have pre-ground hazelnuts, you can grind whole hazelnuts in a food processor until finely ground. Just be careful not to over-process them into hazelnut butter.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Martha Stewart: “To avoid clumpy chocolate, make sure to melt it slowly and stir constantly for a smooth, glossy finish.”
- Alton Brown: “For an extra crisp cookie, try chilling the dough for 15 minutes before baking to help the wafers hold their shape better in the oven.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use regular dark chocolate instead of sugar-free?
Yes! If you’re not concerned about keeping it sugar-free, you can use regular dark chocolate for dipping the wafers. - Can I make these wafers dairy-free?
Absolutely. Just ensure that both your chocolate chips and coconut oil are dairy-free. Most dark chocolates are naturally dairy-free, but check the label to be sure. - What can I substitute for coconut oil?
You can substitute melted butter or ghee for coconut oil if you prefer, though coconut oil is ideal for keeping this recipe dairy-free and adds a subtle flavor. - Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
Yes, almonds or walnuts can be used as a substitute for hazelnuts, though the flavor will be slightly different. Just make sure to finely grind the nuts for the best texture.
These Chocolate Hazelnut Wafers are a decadent yet healthy dessert option that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crisp texture, rich chocolate coating, and crunchy hazelnut garnish, they’re sure to become a favorite treat! 🌰🍫