Chocolate Hazelnut Galette Recipe with Cayenne & Hazelnuts

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Chocolate Hazelnut Galette Recipe with Cayenne & Hazelnuts

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s a Chocolate Hazelnut Galette with a little kick of cayenne pepper and a generous sprinkle of toasted hazelnuts. Honestly, it’s the kind of treat that feels fancy but is so easy to whip up. I first made this for a brunch with friends, and it disappeared in minutes! It’s the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and just a tiny bit spicy. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This galette is seriously a winner. It’s quick – ready in under 30 minutes! – and requires minimal effort. Plus, the combination of chocolate hazelnut spread, the warmth of cayenne, and the crunch of hazelnuts is just divine. It’s rustic, beautiful, and tastes incredible. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious galette:

• 1 sheet puff pastry
• 8 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (about 120g)
• ¼ cup (30g) hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, to taste!)
• 1 whole egg
• 2 tablespoons flour, for dusting

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Puff Pastry: Types & Quality

Using good quality puff pastry is key. You can find pre-made puff pastry in the freezer section of most supermarkets. I prefer all-butter puff pastry for the flakiest results, but shortcrust pastry will also work in a pinch. One sheet (around 300-400g) is what you’ll need.

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: Choosing the Best Brand

Nutella is a classic, and it works beautifully! But feel free to experiment with other brands. Look for one with a high hazelnut content for the best flavour. Around 120g is perfect for a nice, generous filling.

Hazelnuts: Toasting & Regional Variations

Toasting the hazelnuts really brings out their flavour. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them – they burn easily! In some parts of India, you might find locally sourced nuts that add a unique flavour profile.

Cayenne Pepper: Heat Level & Substitutions

Cayenne pepper adds a lovely warmth, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you’re not a fan of spice, start with just a pinch. You could also substitute with a dash of chili powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Egg Wash: Achieving Golden Brown Perfection

The egg wash is what gives the galette that beautiful golden-brown colour. Whisking the egg with a tablespoon of water helps it spread more easily.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your puff pastry out of the freezer and let it thaw according to the package instructions.
2. Lightly flour a clean surface and unroll the thawed puff pastry. Cut it into 4 equal squares.
3. Spread 2 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread onto each square, leaving about a 1-inch (2.5cm) border. Don’t be shy with the spread! Then, sprinkle a little cayenne pepper over the chocolate hazelnut spread – remember, you can always add more later.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water to make your egg wash. Brush the edges of the pastry squares with the egg wash.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry over the filling to create a rustic galette shape. Top with the toasted chopped hazelnuts.
6. Brush the exposed pastry surfaces with the remaining egg wash.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and flaky.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this galette perfect every time:

Achieving Flaky Pastry

Keep everything cold! Cold butter in the puff pastry is what creates those beautiful flaky layers.

Preventing a Soggy Bottom

Baking the galette on a parchment-lined baking sheet helps prevent the bottom from getting soggy.

Balancing the Spice: Cayenne Control

Start with a small amount of cayenne and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Toasting Hazelnuts for Maximum Flavor

Don’t skip toasting the hazelnuts! It makes a huge difference in the overall flavour.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Galette

Use vegan puff pastry and a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread. Easy peasy! My friend, Priya, swears by this version.

Gluten-Free Chocolate Hazelnut Galette (Puff Pastry Alternatives)

Look for gluten-free puff pastry. It can be a little trickier to find, but it’s out there! Or, try using a gluten-free shortcrust pastry.

Spice Level: Mild, Medium, Hot

Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. A pinch for mild, ½ teaspoon for medium, and ¾ teaspoon or more for hot!

Festival Adaptations: Brunch & Dessert Options

This galette is perfect for any occasion! Serve it with coffee for brunch or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Serving Suggestions

This galette is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a few accompaniments. I love serving it with a cup of strong coffee or a refreshing mimosa. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar also adds a nice touch.

Storage Instructions

Leftover galette can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It’s best enjoyed slightly warm.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What type of puff pastry works best for this galette?

All-butter puff pastry is ideal for the flakiest results, but any good quality puff pastry will work.

Can I make this galette ahead of time?

You can assemble the galette ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use a different nut instead of hazelnuts?

Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or pecans would all be delicious substitutes.

How can I adjust the spice level of the galette?

Start with a small amount of cayenne pepper and taste as you go. You can always add more!

What is the best way to reheat leftover galette?

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Enjoy! I hope you love this Chocolate Hazelnut Galette as much as I do. Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to share your photos with me! Happy baking!