Chocolate Hazelnut Dessert Penne Strawberries

Chocolate-hazelnut dessert penne with strawberries makes a whimsical treat that is surprisingly quick to assemble but delivers on decadent flavor and playful texture. If you love chocolate-dipped fruit or the comfort of a nutella-stuffed crepe, this cold pasta creation brings all of that to your dessert bowl. My kids were skeptical at first but now it is their top choice for fun family nights and warm weather gatherings.

I first served this at a summer picnic and watched the entire bowl vanish almost instantly. Seeing everyone’s surprise at trying dessert pasta for the first time is now my favorite kind of party magic.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Choose a sturdy brand that holds its shape well once cooled and tossed
• Salt: Brings necessary flavor into the pasta as it cooks
• Chocolate hazelnut spread: Nutella is classic but any creamy chocolate nut spread will work Use one with few ingredients for the best taste
• Fresh strawberries: The juicier the better Look for ripe vibrantly red berries for maximum sweetness
• Powdered sugar: Lends a silky finish and balances the acidity in the fruit
• Crushed roasted hazelnuts: Toasted lightly before crushing for extra flavor Always select fresh crunchy nuts
• Fresh mint leaves: Optional but make the dish extra beautiful and add a hint of coolness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the penne:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions for al dente Stir a few times to avoid sticking The pasta should be just tender not mushy Drain well and rinse very thoroughly under cold water until the pasta is no longer warm This keeps it from becoming gummy

Coat with chocolate hazelnut spread:

Transfer the thoroughly cooled pasta to a roomy mixing bowl Add the chocolate hazelnut spread Gently fold the pasta and spread together until all pieces are glossy and well coated Go slow to avoid breaking the penne

Add strawberries:

Slice strawberries thinly and fold them into the pasta mixture Save a handful of the prettiest slices for garnish Try to incorporate gently so berries hold their shape and juices do not make the sauce runny

Toss with sugar and nuts:

Sprinkle powdered sugar and most of the crushed hazelnuts over the pasta Stir very gently to mix everything together The sugar will melt into the chocolate creating a luscious coating

Assemble and serve:

Portion the dessert pasta into serving bowls Top with the reserved strawberry slices extra hazelnuts and a light dusting of more powdered sugar Top with mint if you like Serve well chilled for best texture and most refreshing flavor

Save

My absolute favorite part is biting into a cool penne generously covered in chocolate spread with a juicy piece of strawberry tucked inside One taste instantly reminds me of trips to European pastry shops as a child My youngest niece still talks about the day she first got to eat pasta for dessert at our house

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a tightly covered container in the fridge for up to two days Be sure to gently toss before serving again as the chocolate may settle Chill any garnishes like mint or extra strawberries separately and add just before enjoying

Ingredient Substitutions

If hazelnuts are not available or you have allergies try using toasted almonds pecans or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin For a vegan version use a dairy free chocolate spread and check your pasta ingredients Switch strawberries out for raspberries blackberries or thinly sliced ripe bananas if in season

Serving Suggestions

Pile into clear parfait glasses for a dramatic look at a dinner party Kids love it served in colorful bowls with toothpicks for picking up strawberry pieces For adults pair with a glass of sparkling wine or chilled black tea For extra creaminess add a dollop of mascarpone or whipped Greek yogurt on top

Save

Cultural Inspiration

Dessert pasta is popular in some European kitchens where creative cooks love combining sweet flavors with traditional shapes This dish playfully borrows flavors from Italian hazelnut chocolate torte classic French crepes and the childlike joy of eating chocolate covered fruit

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, short pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni work well, but penne offers the best sauce coating and texture.

→ How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Immediately rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop cooking and separate the pieces before tossing with sauce.

→ Are there dairy-free options for the spread?

Choose a vegan chocolate-hazelnut spread or try pure almond or peanut butter with cocoa for a dairy-free twist.

→ What fruits can replace strawberries?

Raspberries, sliced bananas, or blueberries provide delicious alternatives and pair beautifully with chocolate-hazelnut flavors.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Stir gently before serving for best texture.

→ Is it necessary to serve this pasta cold?

Yes, serving it chilled gives a refreshing dessert feel and helps maintain the creamy texture of the sauce.