Aug 12, 20222 min read

Hazelnut Chocolate Fondue

Updated: Mar 31

Dip seasonal fruits in this creamy melt of chocolate flavoured with hazelnuts.

Hazelnut chocolate fondue with apples • Photography © Bottle and Brush Studio 2022

Chocolate fondue Is such a delicious dessert or afternoon tea treat. Warm melted chocolate flavoured with hazelnuts is so comforting. This type of nut pairs so well with chocolate and adds up some texture and nutritional value. You can dip some beautiful pieces of seasonal fruits like apples, persimmons, kiwis, oranges and mandarin. Persimmons that are non-astringent and ripe while still firm are so delicious with chocolate. Kiwis have always been a favourite for fondue and of course, you can’t go wrong with oranges or mandarin. Bananas, pears, strawberries, melons and stone fruits are excellent in fondue as well but I am suggesting this recipe with fruits that are the most available locally during the cool season. Apples are more of an autumn fruit, but apple growers have cool rooms to keep the fruit fresh and available all year. I suggest you find varieties that do not brown too quickly like Greenstar or Kanzi. They are so crisp and delicious too!

Apples and hazelnuts • Photography © Bottle and Brush Studio 2021-22

If you have an old fondue set sleeping in your cupboards, that’s perfect, take it out and use it! Chocolate fondue sets are usually made of porcelain and are smaller than cheese or wine broth fondue ones. You only need one tea light candle to keep the mixture creamy and warm. If you don’t have a set, go to second-hand shops near you, there is always at least one standing there, often brand new in a box… for a buck! It sounds like many people have received them as a gift and never used it, and that is a shame. Anyway, with a set or without, you first prepare your fondue in a saucepan. You can always use that pan to dip in (as it will keep the chocolate melted a bit longer) or pour the hot chocolate mix over a plate of fruits. If you have pomegranates, sprinkle some juicy seeds on top for a visual and tasty impact. Use good quality cooking chocolate, chips or bars. Enjoy your fondue in good company and keep warm and happy as winter is still here!