Chocolate Covered Hazelnuts: A Crunchy Taza Review

If you love the combination of rich chocolate and crunchy nuts, Taza's chocolate covered hazelnuts deserve a close look. Taza is known for its stone-ground, Mexican-style chocolate, and these hazelnuts bring that signature texture to a portable snack. We spent time tasting them alongside other Taza nut offerings to give you an honest picture of what to expect.

In this review, we'll break down the flavor, texture, and overall experience of Taza's chocolate covered hazelnuts. We'll also compare them to similar items in the lineup, like the Chocolate Covered Cashews and the Triple Nut Crunch, so you can decide which treat fits your cravings best.

First Impressions: Texture and Appearance

Opening the package, the hazelnuts are generously coated in Taza's stone-ground chocolate. The chocolate has a slightly gritty, rustic texture that comes from the stone-ground process, which is a hallmark of Taza's style. This isn't a smooth, glossy coating; it's more like a thick, matte layer that clings to each nut.

The hazelnuts themselves are whole and medium-sized, providing a satisfying crunch when you bite through the chocolate. The coating is substantial, so you get a good balance of chocolate and nut in every piece. If you're familiar with Taza's other covered nuts, this one follows the same pattern but with a distinct nutty flavor.

• Stone-ground chocolate gives a rustic, slightly gritty texture.
• Whole hazelnuts offer a hearty crunch.
• The chocolate-to-nut ratio feels well balanced.

Flavor Profile: Dark, Nutty, and Not Too Sweet

The chocolate used on these hazelnuts has a deep, dark cocoa flavor with subtle notes of earthiness and a hint of sweetness. It's not as intense as Taza's 95% Wicked Dark with Toasted Coconut, but it's definitely on the darker end of the spectrum. The hazelnut flavor comes through clearly, adding a buttery, slightly sweet note that complements the chocolate.

Compared to the Chocolate Covered Cashews, these hazelnuts have a more pronounced nutty taste and a firmer texture. The cashews are softer and creamier, while hazelnuts offer a more robust crunch. If you prefer a snack that feels more substantial, the hazelnuts are a great choice.

• Dark chocolate with earthy, slightly sweet notes.
• Hazelnut flavor is distinct and buttery.
• Less sweet than milk chocolate options.

How They Compare: Hazelnuts vs. Other Taza Nut Treats

Taza offers a few nut-covered options, and each has its own appeal. The Chocolate Covered Cashews are softer and milder, making them a good entry point for those who prefer a gentler crunch. The Triple Nut Crunch, which mixes almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts, provides variety but spreads the nut flavor across three types.

For hazelnut lovers, the dedicated chocolate covered hazelnuts offer the purest expression of that nut's flavor. The stone-ground chocolate doesn't overpower the hazelnut, allowing its unique character to shine. If you're torn between the sampler options, the Oaxacan Sampler includes a taste of Taza's classic bars, but for a focused nut experience, the hazelnuts are hard to beat.

• Hazelnuts: firm crunch, bold nut flavor.
• Cashews: softer, creamier, milder.
• Triple Nut Crunch: variety, but less focus on hazelnut.

Serving Ideas and Storage Tips

These chocolate covered hazelnuts are perfect for snacking straight from the bag, but they also work well as a topping for desserts. Crush them over ice cream, yogurt, or even a slice of cake for added texture and flavor. They can also be a thoughtful addition to a gift box or party spread.

To keep them fresh, store the hazelnuts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If your environment is warm, consider refrigerating them to prevent the chocolate from melting. Proper storage will maintain their crunch and flavor for several weeks, though they rarely last that long in our experience.

• Use as a topping for desserts or yogurt.
• Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate in warm climates.
• Great for sharing at parties or as a gift.

Taza's chocolate covered hazelnuts deliver a satisfying crunch and deep, stone-ground chocolate flavor that will appeal to dark chocolate fans and nut lovers alike. While they're not the sweetest option in the lineup, their honest, rustic character is a testament to Taza's commitment to quality. If you're looking for a snack that's both indulgent and wholesome, these hazelnuts are a worthy addition to your next order.