What’s the Key to a Luxurious Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Made from Scratch?

You might be tempted to reach for a jar of that famous brand when thinking of a chocolate hazelnut spread. But what if you could create a homemade version, bursting with the richness of cocoa, the sweetness of sugar, and the unique flavor of roasted hazelnuts? It’s easier than you think, and the result is nothing short of luxurious.

The Rich History of Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Before we delve into the recipe, it’s worth understanding the origins of this beloved spread. Chocolate hazelnut spread, as we know it today, owes its existence to the Italian product gianduja. Born out of necessity during Napoleon’s reign, when a British blockade caused a cocoa shortage, local chocolatiers added ground hazelnuts to extend their cocoa supply.

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The result was a sweet, creamy spread that quickly became a staple in Italian households. The most famous of these products is undoubtedly Nutella, which debuted in 1964 and soon took the world by storm. But why settle for a store-bought jar when you can create a homemade version that’s free from unwanted additives and preservatives?

Gathering Your Ingredients

To make your homemade chocolate hazelnut spread, you will need to gather a few key ingredients. Fresh, raw hazelnuts are the star of the show. Look for them in the baking or bulk section of your grocery store.

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Next, you will need high-quality cocoa powder. Opt for unsweetened cocoa to control the sweetness of your spread. For sweetening, granulated sugar or a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup will do.

You also need oil to create a smooth, spreadable texture. You can use hazelnut oil for an extra boost of flavor, or a neutral oil like coconut or vegetable oil. Last but not least, you’ll need a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.

The Recipe: How to Make Your Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Now that you’ve got your ingredients, it’s time to get started. The first step is to roast your hazelnuts. This will enhance their flavor and make them easier to blend.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the hazelnuts out on a baking sheet. Roast them for 10-15 minutes, until they’re golden and fragrant. Once they’re cool, you can rub them between your hands or in a kitchen towel to remove the skins. Don’t worry about getting all the skins off; a little bit won’t hurt the final product.

Once your hazelnuts are roasted and skinned, it’s time to turn them into a smooth paste. You can do this in a food processor or high-speed blender. Add the roasted hazelnuts and blend until they form a creamy paste. This could take several minutes; be patient and scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.

Next, add your cocoa powder, sweetener, oil, and salt. Continue to blend until everything is well integrated. Taste and adjust the sweetness or cocoa content as needed.

Remember, this is your homemade spread, so feel free to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences. If you like a darker chocolate flavor, add more cocoa. If you prefer a sweeter spread, add more sugar.

Making it Vegan and Free from Unwanted Additives

What makes this homemade spread so special is that it’s vegan and free from unwanted additives. By making it yourself, you control what goes into it. You can choose organic, fair-trade cocoa and sugar, use a vegan sweetener like maple syrup, and opt for a plant-based oil.

The result is a chocolate hazelnut spread that’s not only delicious, but also healthier and more ethical than its store-bought counterparts. Plus, it’s free from palm oil, a controversial ingredient often found in commercial chocolate spreads due to its environmental impact.

Versatile Uses of Your Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

This homemade chocolate hazelnut spread is incredibly versatile. You can use it in a multitude of ways that extend beyond a simple bread spread. It’s a fantastic addition to a range of recipes.

Try it as a filling for crepes, a frosting for cupcakes, or a drizzle over waffles or ice cream. You can also use it as a delicious dip for fruits like strawberries and bananas. The possibilities are endless, and the decadent taste of your homemade spread will elevate any recipe to a new level of deliciousness.

Creating your own luxurious chocolate hazelnut spread from scratch is an indulgence well worth the effort. Fresh, rich, and versatile, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try? You might find that homemade is the best way to enjoy this classic treat.

The Nutritional Benefits of Your Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

In creating your homemade chocolate hazelnut spread, you not only have control over the delicious taste, but also its nutritional values. This is a significant advantage over any store-bought options. A typical serving of this homemade version provides a host of nutrients that come naturally from its main ingredients: hazelnuts and cocoa.

Hazelnuts, like most other nuts, are packed with heart-healthy fats and dietary fiber. They are an excellent source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects your cells from damage, as well as B vitamins that are essential for energy metabolism and nerve function. On the other hand, cocoa powder, particularly the dark variety, is rich in flavonoids – plant compounds with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

When you use a natural sweetener such as honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar, you add extra minerals and antioxidants to your homemade nutella. Opting for coconut oil provides a boost of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), fats that your body can use for immediate energy.

It’s important to note that although this homemade version is healthier, it’s still a high-calorie food. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storing Your Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

After you’ve put time and effort into creating your homemade hazelnut chocolate spread, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor. This homemade spread doesn’t contain any preservatives, so it won’t last as long as a store-bought jar, but with the right storage, it can still last a good while.

Once you’ve reached the perfect blend in your food processor and adjusted the taste to your liking, transfer your spread into a clean jar with a lid. It’s best stored at room temperature, in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight.

This homemade spread remains spreadable at room temperature and does not need to be refrigerated. However, if you live in a warm climate or prefer a firmer texture, you can store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using to soften.

With proper storage, your homemade chocolate spread can last up to two weeks at room temperature or a month in the refrigerator. But given its delicious taste, it might just be used up a lot faster than that!

Conclusion

Making your own chocolate hazelnut spread is a rewarding experience that offers the delights of a decadently sweet, creamy spread without the unwanted additives and preservatives found in the store-bought versions. With just a handful of ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up a luxurious treat that offers a unique blend of flavors and a better nutritional profile.

Whether you’re spreading it on warm toast, using it as a filling for pastries, or simply enjoying it by the spoonful, this homemade nutella is sure to bring a touch of luxury to your everyday meals. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

So, the next time you get a craving for a rich, chocolatey spread, skip the store-bought jar and try making it from scratch instead. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is and how truly exquisite homemade chocolate hazelnut spread can taste.