Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry features smooth, creamy frozen yogurt infused with rich chocolate and crunchy toasted hazelnuts, creating a luscious and refreshing dessert with a perfect blend of nutty and sweet flavors.
Equipments
- Ice cream/frozen yogurt machine
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Baking sheet
- Oven (for toasting hazelnuts)
- Blender or food processor (optional, for hazelnuts)
- Serving bowls or cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts
Using high-quality plain Greek yogurt ensures a creamy base with the right tanginess for this chocolate hazelnut frozen yogurt. Toasting the hazelnuts in your oven enhances their crunch and nutty aroma, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor contrast. Incorporating both heavy cream and whole milk balances richness and smoothness, contributing to the ideal frozen yogurt consistency. Choose a premium chocolate hazelnut spread like Nutella for a deep, authentic taste that blends seamlessly with the unsweetened cocoa powder. Your homemade version of Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry will closely replicate the luscious, refreshing dessert you love from the original menu.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet.
- Toast hazelnuts in oven for 8-10 minutes.
- Remove skins from hazelnuts by rubbing with a towel.
- Roughly chop toasted hazelnuts.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, chocolate hazelnut spread, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Chill yogurt mixture in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
- Pour chilled mixture into ice cream/frozen yogurt machine.
- Churn according to manufacturer’s instructions until thick and creamy.
- Fold in chopped hazelnuts with a spatula.
- Transfer frozen yogurt to a container and freeze for 2-4 hours or until firm.
- Scoop into serving bowls or cups.
- Optionally, garnish with extra hazelnuts or chocolate shavings.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Substitution
Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry copycat menu offers a rich and creamy dessert experience blending chocolate and toasted hazelnuts. You can substitute Greek yogurt with plain regular yogurt for a lighter texture, though the creamy consistency may be less pronounced. If you don't have a frozen yogurt machine, the mixture can be placed in a shallow container in the freezer and stirred every 30 minutes to mimic churning. Toast hazelnuts in the oven or, if unavailable, use pre-toasted nuts or almonds as an alternative. Adjust the chocolate hazelnut spread amount based on sweetness preference to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
Tips
Ensure you toast hazelnuts evenly at 350degF for 8-10 minutes to bring out their flavor and make skin removal easier. Use full-fat Greek yogurt, heavy cream, and whole milk to achieve the creamy texture essential for authentic frozen yogurt. Chilling the mixture for 1-2 hours before churning helps improve consistency and reduces ice crystal formation during freezing. When incorporating chopped hazelnuts, fold them gently to maintain crunch without breaking the creamy texture.
Nutritions
Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt combines Greek yogurt rich in protein and probiotics with whole milk and heavy cream, providing a balanced mix of calcium and healthy fats. The chocolate hazelnut spread adds antioxidants and natural sugars, while the cocoa powder further boosts flavonoid content essential for heart health. Toasted hazelnuts contribute fiber, vitamin E, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that support brain function. Your dessert offers a satisfying nutrient profile with a blend of creamy texture and nutty crunch, making it a delicious yet nutritious treat.
Storage
Store your Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt in an airtight container to prevent ice crystal formation and maintain its creamy texture. Keep it in the freezer at a consistent temperature of 0degF (-18degC) or lower for optimal freshness. When ready to serve, allow the yogurt to soften slightly at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to enhance scoopability.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the plain Greek yogurt with a mix of coconut yogurt for a dairy-free twist that adds a subtle tropical note to your frozen dessert. Instead of toasting whole hazelnuts, try finely chopping or pulsing them in a food processor to enhance their distribution throughout the frozen yogurt. For a richer flavor profile, swap the heavy cream for mascarpone or add a tablespoon of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate taste. If you don't have an ice cream machine, freeze the mixture in a shallow container and stir every 30 minutes to maintain a creamy texture without ice crystals.
Allergies
Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt contains dairy from Greek yogurt, heavy cream, and whole milk, which may trigger allergic reactions for those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. Hazelnuts present a common tree nut allergen that can cause severe reactions in individuals with nut allergies. Your safety is paramount, so avoid this dessert if you have known sensitivities to dairy or nuts.
Why this recipe?
Chocolate Hazelnut Frozen Yogurt from Pinkberry features a rich, creamy texture combined with the indulgent flavors of roasted hazelnuts and premium cocoa, creating a balanced dessert that satisfies both health-conscious and sweet-tooth consumers. The use of real nuts and high-quality ingredients contributes to its distinctive taste and smooth consistency, making it a standout option among frozen yogurt offerings. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate this popular treat at home with control over ingredient quality and customization to your personal preference. This dessert delivers both flavor and nutrition, appealing to those seeking a guilt-free yet decadent experience.