Making your own chocolate hazelnut spread at home is not only a delightful experience but also surprisingly easy. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a Nutella-style spread that adds a rich and indulgent touch to your breakfast or snacks. Whether you spread it on toast, drizzle it over waffles, or enjoy it straight from the jar, this homemade treat is a game-changer. Let's dive into the recipe!

Why Choose to Make Hazelnut Spread at Home?

1. Quality Control:

When you make hazelnut spread at home, you have complete control over the quality of ingredients. Choose premium hazelnuts, high-quality chocolate, and organic sweeteners for a spread that meets your standards.

2. Customization:

Tailor the flavor to your liking. Adjust the sweetness, experiment with different chocolate varieties, or add in optional extras like salt or peppermint extract. Homemade means it's crafted to suit your taste buds.

3. Free from Additives:

Commercial spreads often contain additives and preservatives. By making your own, you eliminate the need for unnecessary ingredients, ensuring a purer, more wholesome treat.

4. Freshness Guaranteed:

Enjoy the freshness of homemade goodness. Your hazelnuts are roasted just before processing, preserving their natural oils and ensuring a delightful, aromatic spread.

5. Versatility in Uses:

Homemade hazelnut spread is incredibly versatile. Use it as a spread, dip, or ingredient in various recipes. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to explore and innovate in the kitchen.

Health Benefits Of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts pack a punch of health benefits. Rich in heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium, hazelnuts contribute to overall well-being. These nutritional powerhouses support brain health, lower cholesterol, and offer a boost of energy. By making this spread at home using minimal ingredients and fresh hazelnuts you can elevate your homemade spread to not just a culinary delight but a wholesome treat that nourishes both body and soul.

 

What Do I Need To Make Chocolate Hazelnut Spread?

• Raw, unsalted hazelnuts
• Chocolate chips (dark chocolate or milk, whatever your preference!)
• Maple syrup or honey
• Vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil

Step By Step Guide To Making Hazelnut Spread At Home

Roasting the Hazelnuts

Processing the Hazelnuts

Now, onto the processing stage. After giving those hazelnuts a breather to cool down, toss them into a food processor. Hit the pulse button and let those hazelnuts groove into a thick paste—it might take a few minutes. For that silky consistency that makes a hazelnut spread legendary, you have to practice patience, continuously scraping down the sides of the processor and pulsing until it hits your desired creaminess. 

Melt and Mix

In a separate bowl, work some magic by melting chocolate chips with a blend of oil, vanilla, and maple syrup. Gradually introduce this luscious melted chocolate mixture to the hazelnut blend in the food processor. Keep that processor purring and pulse until all the ingredients dance together harmoniously. Should you find the mixture a tad too thick for your liking, consider adding an extra teaspoon of oil or water to achieve your desired consistency. This step is the symphony where the rich chocolatey notes seamlessly meld with the nutty undertones, creating a spread worth savoring.

Optional Extras

Feel free to customize your chocolate hazelnut spread with these optional extras:

• Add a pinch or two of salt for a savory-sweet balance.
• Experiment with white or dark chocolate chips for a unique twist.
• Introduce a hint of freshness with peppermint extract.
• Enhance texture by adding chopped hazelnuts at the end.

Uses for Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Now that you have your homemade chocolate hazelnut spread, let's explore some delightful ways to enjoy it:

1. Classic Spread:

Slather it on toast or spread it over warm pancakes and waffles for a classic and comforting treat.

2. Dip for Fresh Fruit:

Use it as a dip for strawberries, bananas, or apple slices for a delightful fruit ensemble.

3. Filling for Pastries:

Elevate your pastries by using the spread as a filling for croissants, puff pastry, or turnovers.

4. Swirled in Ice Cream:

Add swirls of chocolate hazelnut spread to your favorite ice cream for an extra layer of indulgence.

Recipes Ideas Using Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

1. Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Cookies:

Incorporate the spread into cookie dough for a gooey and irresistible chocolate hazelnut cookie.

2. Hazelnut Spread Hot Chocolate:

Melt a spoonful into your hot chocolate for a luxurious and decadent beverage.

3. Nutella-Stuffed French Toast:

Create a delicious breakfast by spreading the hazelnut spread between slices of bread for a French toast delight.

How to Store Your Homemade Spread

To keep your chocolate hazelnut spread fresh and delicious:

• Refrigeration: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: If you've made a larger batch, consider freezing it in portions for an extended shelf life. Thaw in the refrigerator as needed.

Conclusion

Choosing to make hazelnut spread at home is a rewarding decision that grants you control over quality, customization, and freshness. With this simple recipe, you've not only crafted a delicious treat but also opened the door to a world of culinary possibilities. Share your experiences and inventive uses in the comments, and revel in the joy of your homemade chocolate hazelnut spread!