Caramel and hazelnut wafers

Caramel and hazelnut wafers: a sweet and salty dessert for unforgettable moments

If you are looking for a dessert that perfectly combines sweet and salty, caramel and hazelnut wafers are the ideal choice. This recipe is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a satisfying cooking experience. Moreover, it is easy to make, perfect for any occasion, and will surely impress everyone. Let's discover together how to prepare them!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

- 1/2 pack of wafer sheets
- 250 g butter (at room temperature)
- 3 eggs
- 300 g sugar
- 200 g salted hazelnuts (ground)
- 4 squares of dark chocolate (grated)
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
- Water (a few drops)

Step 1: Preparing the caramel

We start by preparing the caramel, which is the heart of this dessert. In a saucepan, add 200 g of sugar and a few drops of water. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and becomes a clear, golden caramel. It is important not to let the caramel become too dark, as this can affect the final taste.

Practical tips:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to avoid burning the sugar.
- If you want a buttery caramel flavor, add a teaspoon of butter when the sugar starts to caramelize.

Step 2: Preparing the mixture

In a large bowl, mix the butter at room temperature with the remaining 100 g of sugar until you obtain a creamy and smooth mixture. Add the eggs, ground hazelnuts, grated chocolate, and vanilla essence. Mix well, ensuring that all the ingredients are completely incorporated.

Personal note:
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of salt, which will enhance the sweet flavors.

Step 3: Combining the caramel with the mixture

After the caramel has cooled slightly, place it back on low heat. Pour the prepared butter mixture over the caramel and stir continuously until the caramel completely dissolves. It is essential to stir constantly to avoid crystal formation.

Step 4: Assembling the dessert

Once the mixture is smooth and warm, take the wafer sheets and start covering them with the caramel and hazelnut mixture. Make sure each sheet is well covered. After you finish covering all the sheets, place a weight on top to press the wafers. This will help combine the flavors and make the dessert more compact.

Step 5: Cooling and cutting

Place the dessert in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until it is well chilled and has set. Once cooled, remove it from the refrigerator and cut it into desired shapes. Whether you choose squares, diamonds, or triangles, each piece will be equally delicious.

Serving:

These caramel and hazelnut wafers are perfect to be served as an extravagant dessert at a festive meal or as a sweet snack during the day. You can accompany them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast. Additionally, a cup of coffee or a fragrant tea will perfectly complement the dessert.

Nutritional benefits:

This recipe provides a good energy boost due to the content of nuts and butter. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. However, being a dessert, it is important to consume it in moderation. A serving has approximately 350 calories, so make sure to enjoy it during moments of indulgence.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can replace hazelnuts with pecans, Brazil nuts, or almonds, depending on your preferences.

2. What do I do if I don't have wafer sheets?
You can create a similar dessert using crushed cookies mixed with melted butter. This will provide a different texture but will be just as delicious.

3. How can I store the wafers?
These wafers store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Make sure they are well covered to prevent drying out.

4. Is it possible to freeze the dessert?
Yes, you can freeze the wafers, but it is recommended to cut them into portions before freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Possible variations:

- Add a few drops of almond essence for a more pronounced flavor.
- Instead of dark chocolate, try milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
- Bring a note of freshness by adding grated citrus zest to the mixture.

These caramel and hazelnut wafers are truly a special dessert that will bring joy to your tables. With a crunchy texture and a delicious filling, they are perfect for celebrating beautiful moments with loved ones. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy this sweet indulgence! Enjoy your meal!