Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe

ByLily
Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 60 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as charming as it is delicious, let me introduce you to this delightful Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe. Not only is it packed with creamy, chocolaty goodness, but shaping it into cute heart molds makes it perfect for sharing or special occasions. I promise, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a favorite go-to dessert that’ll make you look like a kitchen pro—even if flans intimidate you a bit. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfectly Silky Texture: The combination of condensed and evaporated milk creates that melt-in-your-mouth flan texture you crave.
  • Nutella & Dark Chocolate Duo: They bring layers of rich chocolate flavor that’s nutty and irresistibly smooth.
  • Heart-Shaped Presentation: It’s not just delicious—it’s visually stunning, great for impressing friends or celebrating special moments.
  • Water Bath Baking Method: Ensures gentle, even cooking so your flan sets perfectly without cracking.
Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts, chocolate flan dessert, heart-shaped flan recipe, creamy Nutella flan, special occasion chocolate dessert - The image shows three white plates each with a heart-shaped chocolate dessert that has a shiny, smooth surface. On top of each dessert are two small strawberry pieces shaped like hearts. Beside each dessert on the plate, there is a small pile of mixed fresh berries including raspberries, blueberries, and pomegranate seeds, along with bright green mint leaves. The plates are placed on a wooden surface. Some raspberries and mint leaves are scattered around the plates for decoration. The overall look is clean and inviting with a mix of dark chocolate brown, red, blue, and green colors contrasting on the white plates. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This recipe balances creamy dairy, bold chocolate, and just the right sweetness to create a flan that’s both smooth and decadent. Each ingredient plays a key role, so grabbing good quality items can make a difference here.

Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts, chocolate flan dessert, heart-shaped flan recipe, creamy Nutella flan, special occasion chocolate dessert - Flat lay of four whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white bowl filled with smooth Nutella chocolate spread, a small white bowl of thick sweetened condensed milk, a small white bowl of creamy evaporated milk, a small white bowl of dark melted chocolate, a few fresh ripe strawberries with green leaves, a small cluster of plump blueberries, a handful of glistening pomegranate arils, and a few sprigs of fresh bright green mint leaves, all arranged in perfect symmetry on simple white ceramic bowls and dishes, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Eggs: They’re the glue that binds everything to its silky custard texture.
  • Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and richness, giving the flan its luscious mouthfeel.
  • Evaporated Milk (or milk of choice): Lightens the mixture slightly while still keeping it creamy.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, comforting notes.
  • Nutella: Gives a hazelnut-chocolate twist that’s utterly addictive.
  • Dark Chocolate: Adds depth and an intense cocoa punch that balances Nutella’s sweetness.
  • Fresh Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, Pomegranate Arils): Liven up the dessert with fresh, tart bursts and gorgeous color.
  • Fresh Mint: Adds a bright herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate flavors.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe is how easy it is to tweak it depending on your mood or what you have on hand. I love to play around with adding a little cinnamon or a pinch of espresso powder to amplify the chocolate flavors—trust me, it’s incredible. And if you’re dairy-free, I’ve had great luck subbing in almond milk, which keeps things creamy with a subtle nutty twist that pairs well with Nutella.

  • Variation: I sometimes swirl in a raspberry sauce on top before baking for an extra fruity surprise; my guests always ask for the recipe!
  • Dairy-Free Option: Swap evaporated milk with canned coconut milk for a tropical twist that complements the Nutella.
  • Less Sweet: Use semi-sweet dark chocolate instead of rich dark chocolate to dial back sweetness if you prefer.
  • Mini Flans: Use smaller molds for bite-sized flan hearts—perfect for parties or kid-friendly treats.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe

Step 1: Melt Your Chocolate the Right Way

Start by gently heating your evaporated or almond milk in a medium saucepan on low heat. Add Nutella and dark chocolate chunks, stirring constantly until everything melts into a smooth, glossy chocolate mixture. This method prevents the chocolate from burning or seizing—if you’ve ever had that happen, you know how frustrating it can be!

Step 2: Blend for Silky Smoothness

Pour the warm chocolate milk into a blender and pulse for a few seconds. This gives you that ultra-silky texture that helps your flan set beautifully and taste perfectly uniform—no lumps or clumps here!

Step 3: Whisk It All Together

In a large bowl, beat your eggs until smooth. Then slowly add condensed milk, the blended chocolate milk, and vanilla extract, beating gently until everything is perfectly combined. A little tip: Don’t overbeat here, or you risk creating too many air bubbles in the flan, which can cause cracks or holes during baking.

Step 4: Pour Into Heart Molds & Prepare the Water Bath

Pour the custard mixture into your individual heart-shaped molds or ramekins. Arrange them in a square baking dish, then carefully pour boiling water into the dish until it reaches about an inch up the sides of the molds. This water bath gently cooks the flan and keeps it from drying out—essential for that creamy texture.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

Bake in your preheated oven at 325°F for 30 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on them starting at 30 minutes—you want the flan to be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you gently shake the mold. After baking, remove the molds and let them cool completely before moving to unmolding.

Step 6: Unmold Like a Pro

This step can feel tricky, but here’s the secret that changed the game for me: let your flan sit at room temperature for about ten minutes right out of the fridge. Then, dip the molds briefly into hot tap water (no need for boiling here) for five seconds. When you tap the sides, you’ll hear a satisfying “pop” as the custard releases from the mold. Flip gently onto a plate, and voilà —perfect heart-shaped Nutella chocolate flan ready for your final flourish!

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Gentle Heat: Always melt Nutella and chocolate on low heat to avoid grainy custard.
  • Water Bath Care: Keeping your water bath water boiling prevents temperature fluctuations that cause flan cracking.
  • Patience on Cooling: Resist the urge to unmold while warm; letting flan fully cool ensures it holds shape.
  • Perfect Unmolding: The hot water dip really worked wonders for me—I no longer struggle with stuck flans!

How to Serve Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe

Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts, chocolate flan dessert, heart-shaped flan recipe, creamy Nutella flan, special occasion chocolate dessert - A heart-shaped chocolate dessert with a shiny, smooth dark brown surface sits on a white plate with a ridged edge, featuring two heart-shaped red strawberry slices on top. A bite is taken from the left side, showing a rich, creamy inside. Near the dessert on the plate are a few fresh berries including blueberries, a raspberry, and pomegranate seeds, along with green mint leaves. A spoon with a thick piece of the chocolate dessert and some small berries is held above the plate. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping these flan hearts with fresh strawberries, blueberries, pomegranate arils, and a touch of fresh mint. The berries add a juicy, tart contrast to the sweet, creamy custard, and the mint leaves give a refreshing hint that keeps each bite lively. Plus, the colorful presentation sparks up any table—great for Valentine’s Day or any time you feel like spoiling yourself.

Side Dishes

If you’re pairing this with a meal, simple is best. A light salad or a fresh fruit platter works beautifully. For something heartier, a cup of strong coffee or a rich dessert wine complements the chocolate flavors just right—trust me, that pairing is one of my favorites for cozy evenings.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, try layering the flan hearts with whipped cream roses or drizzle them with caramel or raspberry sauce. I once sprinkled edible gold dust on top for a shiny, luxe vibe that wowed everyone at a dinner party. You can also serve each heart on delicate dessert spoons as quick, elegant bites at a gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once baked and cooled, cover your flan hearts tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. I find they keep well for about 3-4 days, staying moist and flavorful without losing that silky texture. Just be sure to keep them airtight to avoid absorbing other fridge smells!

Freezing

Freezing flan can be a little tricky because the texture may change, but I’ve done it successfully by freezing individual hearts in airtight containers. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and serve chilled. The texture softens slightly but still tastes delicious—perfect if you want to prep ahead or save some treats for later.

Reheating

Spoon out any of the fresh topping if you want to warm the flan slightly. I gently reheat mine in a warm water bath or microwave on a low setting for just 10-15 seconds—not too hot, you want to maintain that creamy consistency without melting the custard completely.

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk for the Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe?

    Yes, you can use regular milk, but evaporated milk adds extra creaminess and helps achieve the traditional silky flan texture. If you do use regular milk, consider simmering it gently to thicken slightly before using.

  2. What’s the best way to avoid cracks on my flan?

    Cracks usually happen from high heat or overbaking. The water bath keeps the cooking gentle and even. Also, avoid overbeating the eggs to prevent excess air bubbles, and don’t rush to unmold when still warm.

  3. Can I prepare the Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe in advance?

    Absolutely! The flan actually tastes better after chilling overnight, which helps it set fully and develop its flavors. Just store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

  4. What molds work best for shaping these flan hearts?

    Silicone heart-shaped molds work great because they’re flexible and make unmolding much easier. You can also use classic ramekins for a more rustic look.

  5. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

    Since this recipe relies on eggs and dairy, a true vegan version would require alternative binders and milk substitutes. While you could experiment with silken tofu or agar agar, the classic custard texture would be challenging to replicate exactly.

Final Thoughts

This Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe is one of those desserts that feels special without needing hours of fuss—plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser in my kitchen. I love how the creamy, chocolatey custard pairs perfectly with fresh, tangy berries, and the heart shape just adds that extra touch of love. Whether you’re making it for Valentine’s Day, a birthday, or just because, you’re going to impress anyone lucky enough to try it. Give it a go—you’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to discover just how amazing flan can be!

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Nutella Chocolate Flan Hearts Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 60 reviews
  • Author: Lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

A decadent Nutella Chocolate Flan shaped like a heart, perfect for Valentine’s Day. This creamy chocolate custard dessert features rich Nutella and dark chocolate flavors, baked to silky perfection and topped with fresh berries and mint for a beautiful and delicious treat.

Ingredients

Flan Mixture

  • 4 eggs
  • 1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk (or milk of your choice)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup Nutella
  • 4 ounces dark chocolate for melting

Toppings

  • Strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Pomegranate arils
  • Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the flan.
  2. Prepare Chocolate Milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the evaporated (almond) milk gently, then add Nutella and dark chocolate. Stir continuously until the chocolate has melted completely and combined smoothly with the milk.
  3. Blend Chocolate Mixture: Pour the chocolate milk mixture into a blender and blend for a few seconds until smooth and velvety.
  4. Mix Flan Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Gradually beat in the sweetened condensed milk, smooth chocolate milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  5. Fill Ramekins: Pour the custard mixture evenly into individual heart-shaped molds or ramekins.
  6. Prepare Water Bath: Place the filled ramekins into a 2-quart square baking dish. Pour boiling water carefully into the baking dish until it reaches about 1 inch up the sides of the ramekins, creating a water bath.
  7. Bake Flan: Place the baking dish on the oven rack and bake for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool Flan: Remove the ramekins from the water bath gently and allow the flans to cool completely at room temperature. Then refrigerate until well chilled.
  9. Unmold Flan: Before serving, unmold the flans by following the recommended method to avoid damage—briefly warm the ramekin in hot water, tap sides to loosen, invert onto serving plates, and gently shake until the flan releases.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Top each flan with fresh strawberries, blueberries, pomegranate arils, and mint leaves for a festive and colorful presentation.

Notes

  • To easily unmold the flan, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  • Fill a shallow dish with hot (not boiling) water and dip the ramekin in it for 5 seconds to loosen the custard.
  • Tap the sides of the mold gently until you hear a sucking sound, which indicates the seal has loosened.
  • Cover the ramekin with a plate, invert it, and shake firmly to help the flan release cleanly onto the plate.
  • Use heart-shaped molds for a special Valentine’s Day presentation.
  • Substitute almond milk or evaporated milk with any milk of your preference for different flavors and dietary needs.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 340 kcal
  • Sugar: 38 g
  • Sodium: 170 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg

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