Hazelnuts are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory.
But have you ever wondered what fruits pair well with this buttery and sweet flavor? Look no further!
In this article, we’ll explore the best fruits to complement hazelnuts and provide some delicious recipe ideas to try at home.
Whether you’re a baker or a cocktail enthusiast, you’ll find something to inspire your next creation.
So grab a handful of hazelnuts and let’s get started!
What Fruit Goes With Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are a perfect pairing for many fruits, as their buttery flavor complements the natural sweetness of the fruit. Here are some of the best fruits to pair with hazelnuts:
– Stone fruits: Apples, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, pears, persimmons, and plums all blend perfectly with hazelnuts. These fruits can be used in a variety of desserts, such as cakes, cookies, and pies.
– Berries: Raspberries, strawberries, and other berries provide a sweet and tart flavor combination that contrasts the sweetness of the chocolate and nuttiness of the hazelnut. These fruits work well in desserts like tarts and cheesecakes.
– Citrus fruits: Hazelnuts pair well with citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. These fruits can be used in salads or as a garnish for cocktails.
– Tropical fruits: Mangoes, papayas, and guavas all pair well with hazelnuts. These fruits can be used in smoothies or as a topping for yogurt bowls.
The Flavor Profile Of Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts have a unique flavor profile that makes them a popular ingredient in many dishes, particularly desserts. The nutty, earthy flavor of hazelnuts is complemented by their buttery texture, making them a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of flavors.
When roasted, hazelnuts take on a slightly sweet and caramelized flavor that enhances their natural nuttiness. This makes them perfect for use in desserts like cakes, cookies, and ice cream. Hazelnuts also work well with chocolate and vanilla, which is why they are often used in desserts like Nutella and gelato.
In addition to their sweet applications, hazelnuts can also be used in savory dishes. When combined with garlic and lemon, hazelnuts add depth and richness to sauces and marinades. They also pair well with dill and avocado, adding a nutty, earthy flavor to these fresh ingredients.
Hazelnuts And Berries: A Match Made In Heaven
When it comes to pairing hazelnuts with fruit, berries are an excellent choice. Hazelnuts have a natural affinity for the sweet and tangy flavors of berries, creating a match made in heaven. Raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries are particularly good options as they have a firm texture that provides a good contrast when eaten together with hazelnuts.
One delicious way to enjoy this pairing is through desserts like cakes, tarts, and cheesecakes. For example, a hazelnut and raspberry tart combines the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with the sweet and tart flavors of raspberries. The crunchy texture of the hazelnuts also adds an interesting dimension to the soft and creamy filling of the tart.
Another way to enjoy this pairing is through chocolate confections. Dark chocolate and hazelnuts are a classic combination, and adding raspberries or strawberries to the mix creates a delightful flavor explosion. For example, Parmesan Strawberry and Hazelnut Chocolates combine dark chocolate with strawberry pâte de fruit, Parmesan crisps, and smooth hazelnut praline for a bold and distinctive flavor experience.
Citrus Fruits And Hazelnuts: A Refreshing Combination
When it comes to pairing hazelnuts with fruits, citrus fruits are a refreshing and unexpected choice. The tangy flavor of citrus fruits like grapefruit, clementine, and oranges perfectly balances the richness of hazelnuts. This combination works well in salads, where the acidity of the citrus fruits cuts through the nuttiness of the hazelnuts. Additionally, adding hazelnuts to citrus-based cocktails can create a unique and complex flavor profile.
Hazelnuts also pair well with lemon, which can be used in desserts like lemon bars or lemon tarts. The tartness of the lemon complements the sweetness of the hazelnut, creating a perfectly balanced flavor.
Stone Fruits And Hazelnuts: A Sweet And Nutty Pairing
Stone fruits and hazelnuts make for a particularly delicious pairing. The sweetness of the stone fruit, whether it be an apple, apricot, cherry, nectarine, peach, pear, persimmon, or plum, is perfectly complemented by the nuttiness of the hazelnut. This pairing can be used in a variety of desserts, including cakes, cookies, and pies. The combination of hazelnuts and stone fruits is especially popular in Italian desserts like crostate and torte. The buttery flavor of the hazelnut adds depth to the sweetness of the stone fruit, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your guests or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, this pairing is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Hazelnuts In Cocktails: Fruit-Based Recipes To Try
Hazelnuts can also be used in cocktails to add a nutty and rich flavor. Here are some fruit-based cocktail recipes that incorporate hazelnuts:
1. Hazelnut Apple Cocktail: This cocktail combines hazelnut liqueur with apple cider and a splash of lemon juice. Garnish with a slice of apple for an extra touch of sweetness.
2. Hazelnut Plum Martini: Shake hazelnut liqueur, vodka, and plum juice together with ice and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a slice of plum for a fruity and nutty twist on a classic cocktail.
3. Hazelnut Berry Smash: Muddle fresh berries with hazelnut liqueur and vodka, then top with soda water for a refreshing and fruity cocktail.
4. Hazelnut Citrus Spritz: Combine hazelnut liqueur with grapefruit juice and club soda for a light and refreshing cocktail. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit or orange for an added citrus kick.
5. Hazelnut Mango Margarita: Blend fresh mango with hazelnut liqueur, tequila, and lime juice for a tropical twist on a classic margarita. Serve over ice and garnish with a slice of mango for an extra fruity touch.
Incorporating hazelnuts into cocktails is a great way to add depth and complexity to your drinks. Experiment with different fruits and flavors to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
Baking With Hazelnuts And Fruit: Delicious Recipes To Experiment With
If you’re looking to experiment with hazelnuts and fruit in your baking, there are plenty of delicious recipes to try. Here are some ideas to get you started:
1. Pear and Hazelnut Crumble Cake: This recipe combines the classic pairing of pears and hazelnuts in a hybrid crumble/cake. The oat crumble topping adds a delicious crunch to each bite.
2. Hazelnut Fruit Salad: This refreshing salad includes a variety of fruits, including melon, kiwi, berries, and grapes. The addition of hazelnuts adds a sweet and buttery crunch.
3. Nectarine Hazelnut Torte: This rich cake is made with ground hazelnuts and fresh orange zest for big-time flavor. It’s versatile and can be made with other stone fruits like peaches or plums.
4. Chocolate-Dipped Pineapple, Banana, and Grape Skewers with Hazelnuts: For a fun and easy dessert, try dipping skewered fruit in melted chocolate and chopped hazelnuts. Pineapple, banana, and grapes work well together in this recipe.
5. Hazelnut Cardamom Pear Cake: This unique cake features ground hazelnuts and cardamom for a nutty and spicy flavor. Top with sliced pears for a beautiful presentation.
These recipes are just a starting point – don’t be afraid to experiment with your own fruit and hazelnut combinations!
