Name: Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese; 1 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread; 1 tbsp milk; 1½ tsp cream sherry

Indulge in the luscious and rich flavor of creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or even as a delightful spread, this frosting brings a velvety texture and nutty essence to your sweet creations. Simple yet decadent, it will elevate your desserts to a whole new level.

Photos of Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Recipe

One ingredient to take note of is cream sherry, which may not be a staple in every household. It can be found in the wine or liquor section of most supermarkets. Additionally, the chocolate-hazelnut spread is a common product but ensure you pick a high-quality brand to achieve the best flavor.

Ingredients For Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

cream cheese: Provides the creamy base and slight tangy flavor to the frosting.

chocolate-hazelnut spread: Adds rich chocolate and hazelnut flavor, giving the frosting its signature taste.

milk: Helps to achieve the desired consistency and smooth texture.

cream sherry: Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle sweetness and depth.

One reader, Kathy Loper says:

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting is a game-changer! It's rich, smooth, and incredibly easy to make. The blend of cream cheese and hazelnut spread creates a perfect balance of flavors. Highly recommend for any dessert!

Kathy Loper

Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

How to beat cream cheese: Use an electric hand mixer to soften the cream cheese until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. How to combine ingredients: Gradually add the chocolate-hazelnut spread, milk, and cream sherry to the softened cream cheese while continuing to beat with the mixer until all ingredients are smoothly combined into a frosting.

How To Make Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

Amp up cakes or even pancakes with this creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting that’s made of cream cheese and cream sherry to enjoy sweet and bitter tones.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

8ozcream cheese,(1 package)
1cupchocolate-hazelnut spread
1tbspmilk
1½tspcream sherry

Instructions

Beat cream cheese in a bowl with an electric hand mixer until softened.
Add hazelnut spread, milk, and cream sherry; continue beating until smoothly combined into a frosting.
Use as desired and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 199.83kcal
Fat: 13.85g
Saturated Fat: 10.68g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.64g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.27g
Carbohydrates: 16.25g
Fiber: 1.33g
Sugar: 14.05g
Protein: 2.50g
Cholesterol: 20.91mg
Sodium: 79.69mg
Calcium: 46.62mg
Potassium: 128.69mg
Iron: 1.15mg
Vitamin A: 69.99µg

Pro Tip for Achieving the Ideal Consistency in Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

For an extra smooth and creamy texture, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature before you start beating it. This will help it blend more easily with the chocolate-hazelnut spread and other ingredients, ensuring a lump-free frosting.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

Soften cream cheese quickly: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it faster.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save you time and effort compared to a hand mixer, especially when making large batches.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the chocolate-hazelnut spread, milk, and cream sherry before starting to streamline the process.

Room temperature ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother blending and quicker mixing.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of frosting and store it in the fridge for up to a week, saving time on future baking projects.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Recipe

cream cheese - Substitute with mascarpone cheese: Mascarpone cheese has a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a great alternative to cream cheese in frosting recipes.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a tangy flavor and creamy consistency, though it may be slightly less thick than cream cheese.
chocolate-hazelnut spread - Substitute with chocolate almond spread: Chocolate almond spread offers a similar nutty flavor and creamy texture, making it a suitable replacement.
chocolate-hazelnut spread - Substitute with peanut butter and cocoa powder: Mixing peanut butter with cocoa powder can mimic the rich, nutty, and chocolatey flavor of chocolate-hazelnut spread.
milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream can add a richer texture and creaminess to the frosting, similar to milk but with more body.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can provide a similar consistency to milk in the frosting.
cream sherry - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract can add a sweet and aromatic flavor to the frosting, similar to the subtle sweetness of cream sherry.
cream sherry - Substitute with amaretto: Amaretto, an almond-flavored liqueur, can provide a nutty and sweet flavor that complements the chocolate and hazelnut in the frosting.

Presentation Ideas for a Luscious Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

Choose a sophisticated serving dish: Opt for a sleek, white porcelain bowl or a glass dish to highlight the rich color and texture of the creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting.
Create elegant swirls: Use a piping bag with a star tip to pipe the frosting into beautiful, intricate swirls. This adds a touch of sophistication and showcases the smooth consistency.
Garnish with toasted hazelnuts: Lightly toast hazelnuts and sprinkle them over the top. The crunch and nutty flavor will complement the creamy texture of the frosting.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra luxurious touch, place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of each swirl. This elevates the presentation to a Michelin-star level.
Serve with a side of fresh berries: Pair the frosting with a small bowl of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. The tartness of the berries will balance the sweetness of the frosting.
Drizzle with a fine chocolate sauce: Lightly drizzle a high-quality, dark chocolate sauce over the frosting. This adds depth of flavor and a visually appealing contrast.
Use a decorative plate: Place the serving dish on a larger, decorative plate with a subtle pattern or color that complements the frosting. This frames the dish and adds to the overall presentation.
Incorporate a small edible flower: Add a single, small edible flower, like a violet or pansy, to the top of each serving. This adds a pop of color and a delicate touch.
Serve with a fine dessert wine: Pair the creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting with a glass of cream sherry or another fine dessert wine. The flavors will complement each other and enhance the dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

Electric hand mixer: Essential for beating the cream cheese until softened and for combining all the ingredients into a smooth frosting.
Mixing bowl: Used to hold the cream cheese and other ingredients while they are being mixed.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the chocolate-hazelnut spread and milk.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the cream sherry and any other small quantity ingredients precisely.
Spatula: Handy for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Serving spoon: Useful for transferring the frosting from the mixing bowl to your desired application, whether it be a cake, cupcakes, or another dessert.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Simply cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent the frosting from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.
If you want to freeze the frosting for later use, transfer it to a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. Before sealing the container, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the frosting to prevent ice crystals from forming. The frosting can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To thaw the frozen frosting, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, give the frosting a good stir to restore its creamy consistency. If the frosting seems too thick after thawing, you can add a tablespoon of milk or heavy cream to help loosen it up.
Before using the thawed frosting, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip with an electric mixer to ensure it's smooth and spreadable. This will help incorporate any separated ingredients and restore the frosting's light and fluffy texture.
If you have any leftover frosted cake or cupcakes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the frosted treats to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Interesting Trivia About Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

A fun fact about this creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting recipe is that the cream sherry adds a subtle depth of flavor, enhancing the chocolate-hazelnut spread and making the frosting even more luxurious.

Is Making Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, cream cheese and chocolate-hazelnut spread, are affordable and easily accessible. The addition of milk and cream sherry doesn't significantly increase the cost. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The main ingredients, cream cheese and chocolate-hazelnut spread, are both high in fat and calories. Cream cheese is also high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess.
The recipe contains added sugar from the chocolate-hazelnut spread, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large quantities.
The recipe lacks any significant sources of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or fiber.

However, the small amount of milk in the recipe does provide a modest amount of calcium and protein.

To make this frosting healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace some or all of the cream cheese with a lower-fat alternative, such as Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. This will reduce the overall fat and calorie content while increasing the protein content.
Use a chocolate-hazelnut spread with less added sugar or make your own spread using cocoa powder, hazelnuts, and a natural sweetener like dates or maple syrup.
Add a small amount of avocado or nut butter to the frosting to increase the healthy fat content and provide some additional nutrients.
Incorporate a small amount of espresso or strong coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor without adding extra calories or sugar.
Use the frosting sparingly and pair it with healthier cake or cupcake options, such as those made with whole grain flours, natural sweeteners, and healthy fats.

Editor's Opinion on This Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Recipe

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and smooth textures. The cream cheese provides a tangy base that perfectly complements the sweet, nutty notes of the chocolate-hazelnut spread. The addition of milk ensures a luscious consistency, while the cream sherry adds a subtle depth and sophistication. It's a versatile frosting that can elevate cakes, cupcakes, or even cookies. Simple to prepare yet indulgent, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.

Enhance Your Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fresh Berry Medley: Imagine a vibrant bowl of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries mingling together, their natural sweetness and tartness providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting. The burst of fruit flavors will dance on your palate, creating a symphony of tastes that is both delightful and invigorating.

Roasted Almond Biscotti: Picture this: crisp, golden biscotti studded with crunchy almonds, perfectly roasted to bring out their nutty essence. These delightful treats offer a satisfying crunch that pairs exquisitely with the smooth, velvety texture of the frosting. It's a match made in dessert heaven, where each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Espresso-Infused Tiramisu: Envision layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in rich espresso, interwoven with creamy mascarpone and a hint of cocoa. This classic Italian dessert, with its luxurious coffee notes, complements the chocolate hazelnut frosting beautifully, creating a decadent experience that is both sophisticated and indulgent.

Caramelized Banana Slices: Imagine ripe bananas sliced and gently caramelized to perfection, their natural sweetness enhanced by a golden, sugary glaze. These luscious slices add a warm, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy frosting, creating a dessert experience that is both comforting and utterly satisfying.

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: Visualize a silky-smooth panna cotta infused with the delicate aroma of vanilla beans. This elegant dessert, with its subtle sweetness and creamy texture, provides a perfect canvas for the rich, nutty notes of the chocolate hazelnut frosting. Together, they create a dessert duo that is both refined and irresistible.

Delicious Alternatives to Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

Chocolate Hazelnut Truffles: Indulge in these rich and decadent dessert bites. Perfect for any chocolate lover, these truffles are rolled in cocoa powder and offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Nutella Cheesecake: A creamy and luscious dessert that combines the tanginess of cream cheese with the nutty sweetness of Nutella. This cheesecake is a showstopper for any occasion.

Hazelnut Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy, this dessert is a perfect blend of hazelnut and chocolate. Serve it in elegant glasses for a sophisticated touch.

Chocolate Hazelnut Tart: A buttery crust filled with a rich chocolate and hazelnut filling. This tart is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked until golden brown, creating a delightful contrast between the creamy filling and the earthy mushroom exterior. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful.

Bruschetta: Picture crispy baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of balsamic glaze, each piece delivers a refreshing and tangy taste. This classic Italian starter is not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.

Main Courses:

Chicken Marsala: Transform your dinner table with a delightful Chicken Marsala. This dish features succulent chicken breasts simmered in a rich marsala wine sauce with earthy mushrooms. The sauce is infused with the flavors of garlic and shallots, creating a harmonious blend that pairs perfectly with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or al dente pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Beef Wellington: Impress your guests with a classic Beef Wellington. This luxurious dish features a tender beef tenderloin encased in a layer of mushroom duxelles and wrapped in flaky puff pastry. The beef is cooked to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful center. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and a rich red wine reduction to elevate the dining experience. A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds an aromatic finish.

Why trust this Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting Recipe:

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. The combination of cream cheese and chocolate-hazelnut spread creates a rich and smooth texture that is simply irresistible. The addition of milk and cream sherry adds a unique depth of flavor, making this frosting stand out. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you can trust this recipe to deliver a delicious and professional-quality frosting every time.

Want to share your experience making this Creamy Chocolate Hazelnut Frosting or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of cream sherry?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cream sherry with another type of sweet wine or even a bit of vanilla extract if you prefer to avoid alcohol altogether.

How long can I store this frosting?

You can store this frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it again.

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make this frosting ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before using it so it's easier to spread.

What can I use this frosting on?

This creamy chocolate hazelnut frosting is perfect for cakes, cupcakes, cookies, or even as a dip for fruits. It's pretty versatile!

Can I use a stand mixer instead of a hand mixer?

Sure thing! A stand mixer works just as well. Just make sure to beat the cream cheese until it's nice and soft before adding the other ingredients.