Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Pie

This rich and indulgent chocolate hazelnut pie features a creamy chocolate filling with a hint of hazelnut, nestled in a buttery pie crust. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you want a luxurious treat.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into small cubes)
• 1/4 cup cold water

For the filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped)
• 1/2 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup finely chopped toasted hazelnuts (for garnish)

For the topping (optional):

• Whipped cream (for serving)
• Extra chopped hazelnuts (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust:

   1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
   2. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough begins to come together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
   4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Pre-bake the Crust:

   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess.
   3. Place a sheet of parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
   4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and weights, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is golden. Allow it to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   1. In a medium saucepan, heat the heavy cream and milk over medium heat until just beginning to simmer. Remove from heat.
   2. Add the chopped chocolate and hazelnut spread to the cream mixture. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
   3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined. Gradually whisk in the chocolate mixture until fully incorporated.
   4. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   1. Pour the chocolate filling into the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
   2. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
   3. Allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set completely.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   1. Before serving, top the pie with a dollop of whipped cream, if desired, and sprinkle with extra chopped hazelnuts.
   2. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

This Decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Pie is a perfect combination of creamy chocolate and nutty hazelnut flavors, encased in a buttery crust.