HOMEMADE CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT SPREAD — — HOMEMADE CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT SPREAD is a delightful addition to any kitchen. It’s one of my favorite homemade treats to prepare due to its rich, creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor. Whether you’re spreading it on warm toast, using it as a filling for pastries, or enjoying a spoonful straight from the jar, this spread is a comforting and indulgent way to elevate your meals. Plus, it’s a healthier, more personalized alternative to store-bought versions. Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that will surely become a staple in your home.
For those interested in the nutritional benefits of hazelnuts, they’re not just delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. According to the USDA, hazelnuts are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins like E and B6, which can contribute to heart health and brain function. If you’re curious about incorporating more nuts into your diet, BBC Good Food offers a range of recipes and articles on the health benefits of nuts, making it easier to add these nutritious powerhouses to your meals.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Spread
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread. First, the flavor is incomparable to any store-bought version. The natural sweetness from the honey paired with the rich taste of roasted hazelnuts and cocoa creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. You’ll also appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients—no preservatives or artificial flavors here, just wholesome goodness. Moreover, making your own spread allows you to control the sweetness and tweak the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. And let’s not forget the satisfaction of having made something from scratch that everyone can enjoy, whether on a lazy Sunday morning or as a delightful snack throughout the week.
One of the biggest advantages of making this spread at home is the ability to customize it to your taste. If you prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, you can easily add more cocoa powder. Alternatively, if you like a bit of crunch, you can reserve some whole hazelnuts to mix in at the end, giving the spread an extra layer of texture. The possibilities are endless, and each batch can be a new adventure in taste. Furthermore, knowing exactly what goes into your spread is a comforting thought. You can ensure that the ingredients are fresh and of high quality, which is not always guaranteed with pre-packaged products.
The Recipe
For the Homemade Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread:
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 227 g | raw hazelnuts | — |
| 25 g | unsweetened cocoa powder | — |
| 120 ml | honey | — |
| 0.5 tsp | kosher salt | — |
| 30 ml | canola oil | — |
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking tray and roast them for 8 to 10 minutes until they become fragrant. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Roasting the hazelnuts not only brings out their natural oils but also enhances their nutty flavor, making the spread even more delectable.
- Allow the hazelnuts to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, rub them in a clean towel to remove as much of the skins as possible. This step can be a bit tedious, but it’s worth the effort. The skins can add a bitter taste, so removing them ensures a smoother, sweeter spread.
- Place the hazelnuts in a food processor and process them for about 4 to 5 minutes. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides, until the nuts turn into a smooth nut butter. This process transforms the hazelnuts into a creamy base for the spread.
- Add the cocoa powder, honey, and kosher salt into the processor. With the machine running, gradually pour in the canola oil until everything is well blended and creamy. The oil is crucial for achieving the right consistency, making the spread smooth and easy to spread.
- Transfer the spread into a clean, dry jar. Store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to one week. It’s a good idea to label the jar with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Baking Tray | For roasting the hazelnuts evenly. |
| Food Processor | To blend the hazelnuts into butter. |
| Clean Towel | To rub and remove hazelnut skins. |
| Scraper | To scrape down sides of the processor. |
Having the right tools in your kitchen can make all the difference in the ease of preparing this recipe. A sturdy baking tray ensures even roasting of the hazelnuts, which is crucial for developing their full flavor. The food processor is the star tool here; without it, achieving the creamy texture of the spread would be near impossible. A clean kitchen towel is an often overlooked but essential tool in this recipe, as it helps efficiently remove the skins from the hazelnuts. Lastly, a good scraper will make sure you don’t waste any of the delicious spread sticking to the sides of the processor.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
| Ingredient | What it does here |
|---|---|
| Raw Hazelnuts | Provides the base and nutty flavor. |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | Adds rich chocolate flavor. |
| Honey | Natural sweetness and smooth texture. |
| Kosher Salt | Enhances the overall flavor. |
| Canola Oil | Helps achieve a creamy consistency. |
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect chocolate-hazelnut spread. Hazelnuts are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, including healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They form the base of the spread, giving it its characteristic nutty flavor. Cocoa powder is responsible for the deep chocolate taste, and using unsweetened cocoa allows you to control the sweetness level. Honey serves as a natural sweetener, adding a touch of floral sweetness while also contributing to the spread’s smooth texture. A pinch of kosher salt might seem insignificant, but it plays a vital role in enhancing all the other flavors. Lastly, canola oil is key to achieving the desired creamy consistency, ensuring the spread is smooth and luscious.
What to Serve With This Spread
| Idea | Why it pairs well |
|---|---|
| Freshly baked bread | Complements the spread with a warm, soft texture. |
| Pancakes or waffles | Adds a sweet, nutty flavor to your breakfast. |
| Fresh fruit slices | Offers a refreshing contrast to the rich spread. |
The versatility of this chocolate-hazelnut spread makes it a great addition to a variety of dishes. It pairs beautifully with freshly baked bread, where the warmth and softness of the bread complement the rich, creamy spread. Imagine a warm slice of sourdough slathered with this delectable spread—it’s pure comfort food. Pancakes and waffles are another excellent choice, as the nutty, chocolatey spread adds a delightful depth of flavor to these breakfast classics. Fresh fruit slices, such as apples, bananas, or strawberries, offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the spread, creating a balanced snack or dessert.
Storage & Leftover Tips
| Method | How long | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Keep the jar covered to maintain freshness. |
| Freezing | Not recommended | Best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture. |
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality and flavor of your homemade spread. Keeping it in the refrigerator ensures it stays fresh for up to a week. Make sure the jar is tightly sealed to prevent the spread from absorbing any odors from the fridge. If you find yourself with leftover spread after a week, consider using it in baked goods, such as cookies or banana bread, where it can add a delicious twist. Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture, making it less smooth and creamy.
Homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread is a versatile and delightful addition to any kitchen. Creating it from scratch not only fills your home with the comforting aroma of roasted hazelnuts but also provides a healthier option for you and your family. The joy of sharing this delicious spread with your loved ones, knowing that it’s made with love and care, is truly rewarding. Try it today and discover a new favorite treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular day, this spread is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to the table.
FAQs About HOMEMADE CHOCOLATE-HAZELNUT SPREAD
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, you can substitute canola oil with other neutral oils like vegetable or grapeseed oil. Just ensure the flavor doesn’t overpower the hazelnuts and cocoa.
How can I make this spread ahead of time?
You can prepare the spread up to a week in advance. Store it in a covered jar in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
To make this recipe vegan, you can replace honey with a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup or maple syrup.
Homemade Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat oven to 180 C / 350 F. Spread nuts on a baking tray and roast for 8–10 minutes until fragrant; watch closely.
- Cool 5 minutes. Rub in a clean towel to loosen skins.
- Process nuts for 4–5 minutes, pausing to scrape the sides, until they become smooth nut butter.
- Blend in cocoa, honey and salt. Gradually add oil with the machine running.
- Scrape into a clean, dry jar. Refrigerate, covered, for up to one week.