Elizabeth Mayer:
I use this Nutella-based cream for almost anything: in croissants, on top of cakes and, sometimes, I even eat some on a piece of bread or a biscuit. I...
Chocolate and hazelnuts have long captured the hearts of dessert lovers worldwide. This irresistible duo, reminiscent of iconic pairs like Fred Astaire & Ginger Rogers or Salt & Pepper, brings a harmonious balance of richness and crunch to countless confections.
Inspired by the beloved flavors of Nutella—that famed Italian chocolate hazelnut spread—this pastry cream transforms the classic French crème pâtissière with an Italian twist. It’s an ideal filling for cakes, éclairs, tarts, or even just to savor by the spoonful. If you’re eager to elevate your pastry repertoire with a touch of Italian indulgence, this Rocher-style cream will become your go-to.
While both chocolate and hazelnut pastry creams shine individually, their marriage in this recipe creates a luxurious, nutty, velvety filling that will take your desserts to extraordinary heights.
And if temptation strikes and you find yourself sneaking a taste straight from the bowl, know you’re in excellent company—sometimes, the chef simply must indulge! For more creative ways to use this sumptuous pastry cream, browse the Mamablip Dessert Recipe Collection for sweet inspiration.
Wondering what to sip alongside this creamy delight? Explore Mamablip’s curated Dessert Wine selection to discover your perfect pairing. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Mamablip Newsletter for the latest recipes, wine tips, and culinary adventures from Italy and beyond!
IngredientsTry it with...
Preparation
for 4 servings
Step
1
Of 3
Slice your vanilla bean lengthwise and gently scrape out the fragrant seeds with the tip of a paring knife.
Add both the seeds and the empty pod to a small saucepan along with the whole milk and heavy cream. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it’s steaming hot but not boiling, allowing the vanilla to infuse deeply into the liquid.
Once aromatic, remove the pan from the heat and discard the vanilla pod.
Step
2
Of 3
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar vigorously until the mixture becomes pale and slightly thickened.
Sift in the cornstarch and a pinch of fine sea salt, blending thoroughly to avoid lumps.
Gradually pour the warm vanilla-infused milk mixture into the egg blend, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and create a smooth batter.
Stir in the melted chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella), along with the finely crushed wafers and chopped toasted hazelnuts. The result should be a deeply aromatic, nutty cream base.
Step
3
Of 3
Pour the entire mixture back into the saucepan and set over medium-low heat.
Cook, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, for about 7 minutes, or until the cream thickens to a custard-like consistency.
When ready, immediately transfer the hot pastry cream to a clean glass bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming as it cools.
Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until fully chilled and set. Your luxurious chocolate hazelnut pastry cream is now ready for filling cakes, pastries, or enjoying as a decadent treat on its own!
Try it with...
Filippo Bartolotta
...Great Italian Goodies!
Elizabeth Mayer Friday 9th of April 2021
rocher
I use this Nutella-based cream for almost anything: in croissants, on top of cakes and, sometimes, I even eat some on a piece of bread or a biscuit. It's great!
Anna Bubbi Sunday 11th of April 2021
Utile e deliziosa
Facile da fare, ottima da mangiare!
Anna Bubbi Sunday 11th of April 2021