Healthier Nutella Recipe: Homemade Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
Discover how to make a delicious and healthier version of Nutella with this simple, homemade recipe. Perfect for spreading on toast or enjoying as a dip, this recipe uses all-natural ingredients to create a creamy, rich chocolate-hazelnut spread without the excess sugar and additives found in store-bought versions.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups raw hazelnuts
- 2/3 cup dark chocolate (preferably high quality)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup or raw honey (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Roast the Hazelnuts: Spread the raw hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the nuts are fragrant and slightly darkened.
- Cool and Peel the Hazelnuts: Once roasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Transfer the nuts to a kitchen towel and gently rub them to remove most of the skins. Some skins may remain, which is perfectly fine.
- Blend the Hazelnuts: Place the peeled hazelnuts into a high-speed blender or food processor. Add a pinch of sea salt if desired and your choice of sweetener (maple syrup or honey). Blend the nuts until they form a smooth nut butter. Be patient, as this process can take several minutes and may require scraping down the sides of the blender to ensure even blending.
- Incorporate the Dark Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler. Slowly add the melted chocolate to the blended hazelnuts. Continue blending until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Transfer and Store: Spoon the finished hazelnut chocolate spread into a glass jar. Seal tightly and store at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your preference for consistency.
Tips:
- If the spread is too firm, add a small amount of olive oil while blending to achieve a creamier texture.
- Adjust the amount of liquid sweetener according to your taste preference for sweetness and consistency.
Enjoy your homemade, healthier Nutella on toast, in smoothies, or as a tasty dip! This spread not only tastes great but also provides the nutritional benefits of raw hazelnuts and dark chocolate. 💕
Keywords: Healthier Nutella, homemade hazelnut spread, natural Nutella recipe, dark chocolate spread, easy Nutella alternative, Nutella without sugar