Welcome to a delightful journey into the heart of German baking with these irresistible Nussecken. These nut corners are the perfect blend of buttery pastry, rich nut filling, and a decadent chocolate glaze, making them a hit at any gathering or a cozy treat for yourself.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of a crisp pastry base with a moist nut filling creates a perfect texture contrast.
- Using a mix of hazelnuts and almonds adds depth to the flavor profile.
- The chocolate glaze not only adds a luxurious finish but also seals in the freshness.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a sophisticated treat that’s surprisingly easy to make.
- Perfect for make-ahead, these nut corners taste even better the next day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg
- 1 cup hazelnuts, finely ground
- 1 cup almonds, finely ground
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife
- Saucepan
Instructions
Prepare the Pastry Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and egg, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a parchment-lined 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Tip: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent shrinkage.
Make the Nut Filling
While the base bakes, combine the ground hazelnuts, almonds, honey, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Spread this evenly over the pre-baked pastry base. Tip: Toasting the nuts before grinding them can enhance their flavor.
Bake to Perfection
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly bubbly. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Chocolate Glaze
Melt the dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Drizzle or spread over the cooled nut corners. Tip: Adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate glaze can elevate the overall taste.
Cut and Serve
Once the chocolate has set, use a sharp knife to cut into triangles. Serve and enjoy the crunchy, nutty, chocolatey goodness!
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to take their Nussecken to the next level, consider these advanced tips. First, experimenting with different nut ratios can personalize the flavor to your liking. Second, a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract in the nut filling can add a warm, aromatic touch. Lastly, for a smoother cutting experience, slightly warm the knife blade before slicing through the chocolate glaze.
Recipe Variations
- Swap hazelnuts for pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a layer of apricot jam between the pastry and nut filling for a fruity twist.
- Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter, milder glaze.
- Incorporate a teaspoon of instant espresso powder into the chocolate glaze for a mocha version.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Nussecken ahead of time?
Absolutely! Nussecken are perfect for making ahead. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to a month. The flavors meld and intensify over time, making them even more delicious.
What’s the best way to grind the nuts?
For the finest texture, use a food processor. Pulse the nuts in short bursts to avoid turning them into nut butter. If you don’t have a food processor, a blender on a low setting or even a manual nut grinder can work in a pinch.
Can I use store-bought dough for the base?
While homemade dough is recommended for the best flavor and texture, a high-quality store-bought shortcrust pastry can be a time-saving alternative. Just ensure it’s rolled out to fit your baking pan.
Summary
Nussecken German Nut Corners are a delightful treat that combines a buttery pastry base with a rich nut filling and a smooth chocolate glaze. Perfect for any occasion, these nut corners are as fun to make as they are to eat.