Homemade Gianduiotto – Italian Chocolate Hazelnut Treat

Three chocolate bars on wooden table, Homemade Gianduiotto - Italian Chocolate Hazelnut Treat. pinit

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Gianduiotto is a classic Italian confectionery made with luscious chocolate and roasted hazelnuts. Its velvety texture and rich flavor make it a delightful treat that captures the essence of traditional Italian sweets. In this blog post, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide to creating these delectable gianduiotto at home. You don’t need to be a professional chocolatier to make these delightful goodies, and they are perfect for sharing with family and friends or as a special gift.

Homemade Gianduiotto is a delicious and iconic Italian chocolate confection that traces its origins to the Piedmont region of northern Italy. This sweet treat has a rich history and a distinct flavor profile.

  • Gianduiotto was first created in Turin, Italy, in the mid-19th century. It was invented by combining hazelnuts, cocoa, and sugar to create a creamy and nutty chocolate.
  • The name “Gianduiotto” is derived from Gianduja, a traditional character from Piedmontese theater who was known for his joviality and love of chocolate. This character became the symbol of the confection.
  • The use of hazelnuts in Gianduiotto was a clever way to extend the limited supply of cocoa during a period when cocoa shortages were common.

Homemade Gianduiotto represents the artistry of Italian chocolatiers and their ability to create delectable sweets from local ingredients. It has become an iconic symbol of Piedmontese chocolate craftsmanship.

Homemade Gianduiotto – Italian Chocolate Hazelnut Treat

Gianduiotto is a popular chocolate-hazelnut candy hailing from the Piedmont region of Italy. Its creation is credited to a shortage of cocoa during the Napoleonic era, leading to the addition of finely ground hazelnuts, which complemented the limited cocoa supply. The resulting sweet and nutty flavor quickly won over hearts, and gianduiotto became an Italian classic, still cherished today.

Tools and Equipment

Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 40 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 20 Calories: 123.09 Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a double boiler or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate until smooth and glossy.

  2. In a separate bowl, combine the finely ground roasted hazelnuts, powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you have a thick, creamy hazelnut paste.

  3. Add the hazelnut paste to the melted chocolate and stir until the mixture is well combined.

  4. Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a piping bag with a round tip.

  5. Pipe the gianduiotto mixture into small pyramid-shaped molds or drop spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to create a classic shape.

  6. Allow the gianduiotto to set at room temperature for about an hour, or until firm and easy to handle.

  7. Once set, carefully remove the gianduiotto from the molds or baking sheet.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 20


Amount Per Serving
Calories 123.09kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9.45g15%
Saturated Fat 3.98g20%
Trans Fat 0.04g
Cholesterol 6.69mg3%
Sodium 13.61mg1%
Potassium 102.96mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 8.72g3%
Dietary Fiber 1.35g6%
Sugars 6.32g
Protein 1.51g4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.

Note

Tips and Variations:
  • For an extra nutty flavor, toast the hazelnuts before grinding them.
  • You can add a dash of hazelnut liqueur for a more intense flavor.
  • Experiment with different chocolate types, such as milk or white chocolate, to create unique variations of gianduiotto.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Enjoy gianduiotto as an after-dinner treat or give them as gifts wrapped in pretty packaging.
Allergen Information:
  • Homemade Gianduiotto typically contains hazelnuts and dairy, as well as chocolate. Individuals with nut or dairy allergies should choose alternatives that cater to their dietary restrictions.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
  • Gianduiotto is a sweet and nutty chocolate confection that pairs wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine, such as a sweet Moscato d'Asti or a rich Vin Santo.
  • For a non-alcoholic option, enjoy it with a cup of espresso, a shot of hazelnut liqueur, or a creamy hot chocolate to enhance the chocolate and hazelnut flavors.
Storage and Leftovers:
  • Homemade Gianduiotto can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, for several weeks. It is best kept at a temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C).
  • Avoid storing Gianduiotto in the refrigerator, as temperature fluctuations can affect its texture and flavor.
  • Leftover Gianduiotto can be enjoyed at any time by simply unwrapping and savoring the creamy, nutty sweetness. It can also be used as a topping for desserts or as a flavorful addition to homemade ice cream, providing versatile ways to indulge in its delightful taste.
Keywords: Gianduiotto, Chocolate, Hazelnut, Italian Candy, Confectionery, Homemade, Piedmont, Classic

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
What is Gianduiotto?

Gianduiotto is a traditional Italian chocolate treat made with a blend of dark chocolate and finely ground hazelnuts. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a rich, nutty flavor, often shaped into small pyramid-like pieces.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for Gianduiotto?

While traditional Gianduiotto is made with dark chocolate for its rich flavor, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter treat. Adjust the sweetness by reducing or omitting the powdered sugar.

How do I store Homemade Gianduiotto?

Store Homemade Gianduiotto in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ideal storage temperature is 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid refrigeration to maintain its texture and flavor.

How long does Homemade Gianduiotto last?

Homemade Gianduiotto can last for several weeks when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. Its creamy texture and flavor are best enjoyed within this time frame.

Can I make Gianduiotto without hazelnuts?

Gianduiotto is traditionally made with hazelnuts, but you can substitute other nuts like almonds if desired. Keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile of the treat.

What can I use if I don’t have pyramid molds for Gianduiotto?

If you don’t have pyramid molds, you can drop spoonfuls of the gianduiotto mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet to form classic shapes. The texture will be similar, and it will still taste delicious!

How do I fix Gianduiotto that’s too soft?

If your Gianduiotto is too soft, let it set at room temperature for a bit longer. If needed, you can place it in the refrigerator briefly to firm up, but be cautious as refrigeration can affect texture.

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