Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Nutella Hung Yogurt Dessert Recipe – Easy Hazelnut Indian Fusion Treat

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a dessert that’s both ridiculously easy and totally satisfying. And let me tell you, this Nutella Hung Yogurt Dessert is exactly that! It’s a little bit Indian, a little bit Italian, and a whole lot delicious. I first made this when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s become a family favorite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a game-changer. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and has a lovely hint of hazelnut. Plus, it comes together with minimal effort – seriously, the hardest part is waiting for the yogurt to drain! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight treat, a potluck dessert, or even a festive sweet. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dreamy dessert:

• 500 gm yogurt (about 2 cups)
• 3 tbsp Nutella
• 2 tbsp sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tbsp crushed hazelnuts

Ingredient Notes

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

Yogurt – Choosing the Right Kind

Full-fat yogurt works best for a really creamy texture. But honestly, you can use whatever you have on hand! Greek yogurt is also fantastic – it’ll drain even faster. Just avoid flavored yogurts, as they’ll affect the overall taste.

Nutella – Brand & Alternatives

I’m a Nutella devotee, but feel free to use your favorite hazelnut spread. There are some amazing artisanal brands out there! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could try a homemade hazelnut cocoa spread.

Hazelnuts – Roasting & Crushing for Best Flavor

Roasting the hazelnuts before crushing them really brings out their flavor. Just pop them in a dry pan for 5-7 minutes, then rub off the skins with a clean towel. You can crush them roughly with a rolling pin or use a food processor for a finer texture.

Sugar – Adjusting Sweetness Levels

The amount of sugar is really up to you! I like 2 tablespoons, but if you have a serious sweet tooth, feel free to add a little more. You can also use powdered sugar for a smoother consistency.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

1. First, line a strainer with a muslin cloth (or a clean cheesecloth). Place it over a bowl.
2. Pour the yogurt into the lined strainer.
3. Refrigerate for 3-4 hours, or even overnight, to let the whey drain. This is what transforms regular yogurt into luscious hung yogurt!
4. Once the yogurt is nicely drained, transfer it to a mixing bowl.
5. Add the Nutella and sugar.
6. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and beautifully combined.
7. Gently fold in the crushed hazelnuts.
8. Divide the mixture evenly between two ramekins.
9. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the dessert to set.

Expert Tips

Want to take this dessert to the next level? Here are a few of my go-to tricks:

Achieving the Perfect Hung Yogurt Consistency

The longer you drain the yogurt, the thicker it will become. For a really firm dessert, drain it overnight.

Preventing a Grainy Texture

Make sure to whisk the Nutella and sugar into the hung yogurt really well. This will help prevent any graininess.

Enhancing the Hazelnut Flavor

A tiny pinch of hazelnut extract can really boost the hazelnut flavor. But be careful – a little goes a long way!

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation. Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Nutella Hung Yogurt Dessert

Use a plant-based yogurt (like coconut or soy) and a vegan Nutella alternative.

Gluten-Free Adaptation

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the label on your Nutella to be sure.

Adjusting Spice Level (Optional – Cardamom/Rosewater)

My dadi (grandmother) always added a pinch of cardamom or a teaspoon of rosewater to her yogurt desserts. It adds a lovely fragrant touch!

Festival Adaptations (Holi/Diwali Sweet Treat)

During Holi, you could add a sprinkle of edible silver leaf (varak) for a festive touch. For Diwali, a few chopped pistachios would be beautiful.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dessert chilled, straight from the fridge. A drizzle of extra Nutella and a sprinkle of hazelnuts make it extra special. It’s also lovely with a side of fresh berries.

Storage Instructions

This dessert will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Hung Yogurt and why use it?

Hung yogurt is yogurt that’s been strained to remove most of the whey (the liquid part). This results in a thicker, creamier yogurt that’s perfect for desserts like this one. It has a slightly tangy flavor and a really luxurious texture.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the hung yogurt a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. The assembled dessert can also be made a day ahead.

What can I substitute for Nutella?

You can use any hazelnut spread you like. Alternatively, you could make your own by blending roasted hazelnuts with cocoa powder and a little sweetener.

How do I prevent the yogurt from being too sour?

Using full-fat yogurt and not draining it for too long will help prevent it from becoming overly sour. A touch of extra sugar can also balance the flavors.

Can I use different nuts instead of hazelnuts?

Of course! Almonds, walnuts, or pistachios would all be delicious. Just make sure to roast and crush them first for the best flavor.