Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a dessert that’s every bit as delightful as it sounds: Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups. These treats bring together the creamy richness of mascarpone, the pure joy of chocolate hazelnut spread, and the irresistible crunch of cookie crusts, layering them into individual glasses for an elegant, no-bake finale. If you’re searching for something easy, indulgent, and destined to impress both guests and your own sweet tooth, this recipe is going to become your new go-to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups is just how accessible and purposeful each ingredient is. Every component brings an essential flavor or texture—there’s no filler here, just delicious simplicity in every layer.

• Chocolate creme sandwich cookies: These cookies form the base, offering a familiar crunch and deep chocolate flavor that holds up beautifully under creamy toppings.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the cookie crumbs together and brings out the richness of the base.
• Mascarpone cheese: The secret to the impossibly silky, decadent cream—make sure it’s softened for the dreamiest texture.
• Chocolate hazelnut spread: This is where the real magic happens, infusing the cream with that classic, nutty chocolate taste.
• Powdered sugar: Adds just enough sweetness without grittiness, keeping the filling light as a cloud.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the chocolate and hazelnut, giving depth to the filling.
• Heavy cream: Whipping the cream before incorporating creates the mousse-like texture that makes these cups irresistible.

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups

Step 1: Make the Cookie Crust

Pop those chocolate creme sandwich cookies into a food processor and pulse until they’re finely ground—think sandy but not powdery. Pour the crumbs into a bowl, add the melted butter, and give everything a good stir until the mixture looks like wet sand. Spoon the crumbs evenly into your glasses (six to eight, depending on size), and press firmly to form the base. A spoon or tart tamper works perfectly. Set the crusts in the fridge while you work your magic with the cream layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cream

In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl with a handheld mixer for that bonus arm workout), beat the mascarpone, chocolate hazelnut spread, powdered sugar, and vanilla together. Mix until you have a luscious, unified cream with no streaks. It will smell positively heavenly at this point—try not to sneak too many tastes!

Step 3: Whip the Cream

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. The goal is to keep the cream billowy, so stop before it gets stiff or grainy. This step is key for that ultra-light mousse texture in the final cups.

Step 4: Fold and Combine

Gently fold a third of the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture to lighten it up. Then, delicately fold in the remainder so the cream stays airy. Take your time—gentle folds preserve all the wonderful fluffiness.

Step 5: Assemble and Chill

Divide the finished Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cream over the prepared cookie crusts. Smooth the tops with a small spatula or the back of a spoon. Cover each cup with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours (or overnight if you can stand to wait). This lets the layers set and the flavors meld into pure dessert perfection.

How to Serve Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups

Garnishes

The perfect finishing touch for your Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups? Try dollops of whipped cream, a drizzle of extra chocolate hazelnut spread, chopped toasted hazelnuts, or delicate chocolate shavings. Fresh berries or edible gold leaf instantly elevate the look if you’re serving guests.

Side Dishes

Since these cups are rich and luxe, pair them with something fresh and light on the side, like a citrus salad or a platter of sliced fresh fruit. Shortbread cookies or crisp biscotti also make a satisfying, crunchy partner.

Creative Ways to Present

Lean into the layered look by assembling Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups in clear glasses or mason jars so everyone can admire the distinct bands of crumbs and cream. For parties, mini shot glasses make perfect single-bite treats, or use small ramekins for a satiny, scoopable dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups keep beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Simply cover each cup tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent any fridge odors from sneaking in and to keep the layers fresh and creamy.

Freezing

If you’d like to make them further ahead, these cups can be frozen—just wrap each glass well in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for a texture that’s almost as good as freshly made.

Reheating

These cups are truly at their best served cold, so skip any reheating. If frozen, give them time to thaw in the refrigerator so all the flavors and creamy layers can shine.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While chocolate creme sandwich cookies deliver a nostalgic chocolatey crunch, any chocolate cookie or even graham crackers with a little cocoa powder can work as a substitute. Just aim for a cookie with enough structure to hold up under the cream.

Is there a substitute for mascarpone cheese?

If you can’t find mascarpone, a full-fat cream cheese blended with a little heavy cream can create a good stand-in. The flavor will be a bit tangier, but still deliciously smooth.

Can I make Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups dairy free?

Yes! Use a plant-based cream cheese in place of mascarpone, a dairy-free whipped topping instead of heavy cream, and ensure your cookies and chocolate hazelnut spread are also dairy free. The result is a treat everyone can dig into.

How far in advance can I assemble these cups?

Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead, making them perfect for stress-free entertaining. In fact, a bit of extra chill time lets the flavors develop even further.

What’s the best way to transport these to a gathering?

Use jars or lidded ramekins for a worry-free way to travel. Keep them chilled in a cooler until time to serve, and offer garnishes on the side for an extra special final touch at your destination.

Final Thoughts

If you’re longing for an easy, elegant treat that feels like a big hug in dessert form, you simply have to try Chocolate Hazelnut Mascarpone Cups. With their show-stopping layers and decadent flavors, they’ll win over everyone at the table—yourself included. Give them a try and get ready to hear nothing but rave reviews!

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