Incredible Molten Nutella Center Truffles Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the cleanest slices, use a thin, sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. If the truffles are too cold, the Nutella will be too firm; let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before slicing. To make the truffles ahead, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

For a more intense hazelnut flavor, toast the chopped hazelnuts briefly before adding them to the chocolate. You can also drizzle the finished truffles with extra melted chocolate for a decorative touch.

If you prefer a darker chocolate shell, substitute dark chocolate for the milk chocolate. For a festive variation, roll the finished truffles in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or crushed cookies. To make the truffles gluten-free, use gluten-free biscuits or cookies.

The dough may be slightly more delicate, so handle gently. For a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate and a plant-based cream cheese alternative; ensure the biscuits are vegan as well. The molten center works best with a high-quality hazelnut spread that doesn’t contain palm oil.

Variations

• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate (70% cacao) for the shell instead of milk chocolate. The bitterness balances the sweet Nutella center. Add a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate-hazelnut mixture for a salted caramel-like flavor.
• Crunchy Cookie Coating: Instead of chopped hazelnuts, mix crushed wafer cookies or graham crackers into the melted chocolate. The coating becomes extra crunchy and adds a buttery note that complements the chocolate.
• Spiced Mexican Chocolate: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the biscuit dough. The warmth of the spices enhances the chocolate and hazelnut flavors, giving a subtle kick.
• Mint Chocolate Swirl: Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the melted chocolate before dipping. The cool mint contrasts with the rich Nutella center, creating a refreshing twist. Garnish with crushed candy canes for a festive look.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften the center.

Freezer

Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheat

No reheating needed. For a softer center, let truffles sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Store the truffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, but the chocolate may soften. For longer storage, freeze the truffles in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving. To maintain the crisp shell, avoid storing near strong-smelling foods, as the truffles can absorb odors.

The truffles can be made up to 3 days in advance and kept refrigerated. Prepare the Nutella cores and dough the day before, but do not dip them until the day of serving for the freshest shell. Alternatively, make the entire batch and freeze for up to 2 months.

When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for 30 minutes. The molten center will return to its flowing consistency once the truffles are at room temperature.

Serving ideas

Serve the truffles as a show-stopping dessert at parties, dinner gatherings, or as a special treat. Arrange them on a platter and slice one or two in half to display the molten centers. They pair beautifully with espresso, coffee, or a glass of milk.

For an elegant presentation, dust the plate with cocoa powder or powdered sugar, and add a few whole roasted hazelnuts as a garnish. The truffles are best enjoyed within a few hours of slicing, as the Nutella will firm up again if refrigerated.

These truffles also make wonderful homemade gifts. Place them in a decorative box or tin, lined with parchment paper. They travel well if kept cool, making them ideal for holiday gift-giving. For a dessert board, arrange the truffles alongside fresh berries, biscotti, and chocolate-dipped fruit. The contrast of textures and flavors makes them a versatile addition to any sweet spread. Remember to slice them just before serving to showcase the molten centers.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Incredible Molten Nutella Center Truffles

Prep 45 minCook 5 minRest 40 minTotal 1 h 30 minServes 12

Ingredients

• 12 tsp chocolate hazelnut spread (Nutella)
• 1 packet Petit Beurre tea biscuits
• 5 tbsp labneh cream cheese
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 160 g milk chocolate
• 1/2 cup finely chopped roasted hazelnuts

Instructions

1. Line a small baking tray with parchment paper. Spoon 12 rounded teaspoons of chocolate hazelnut spread onto the tray, spacing them apart. Place the tray in the freezer for 30 minutes until the mounds are rock solid.
2. While the Nutella freezes, finely crush the Petit Beurre biscuits in a food processor until they resemble sand. Transfer the crumbs to a mixing bowl. Add the labneh cream cheese and cocoa powder, then knead everything together until a pliable, smooth dough forms.
3. Take a portion of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and flatten it into a disc in your palm. Place a frozen Nutella core in the center, then wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges completely. Roll between your palms to form a smooth sphere. Repeat with all cores.
4. Melt the milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Stir in the finely chopped roasted hazelnuts until well combined.
5. Using a fork, dip each chilled truffle ball into the chocolate-hazelnut mixture, turning to coat completely. Lift it out, letting any excess chocolate drip off, then place it on a parchment-lined tray. Repeat with all truffles.
6. Refrigerate the coated truffles for 10 minutes to set the chocolate shell. To serve, slice one truffle in half with a sharp knife to reveal the crisp hazelnut shell, chewy cocoa biscuit ring, and molten Nutella lava core. Enjoy immediately.

Contains: gluten, milk, tree nuts, eggs

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

210

Protein

3 g

Carbohydrates

24 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

18 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.