Description
Learn how to make your own hazelnut spread at home with this easy recipe. Perfectly rich and creamy, it’s ideal for spreading, dipping, or baking.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups hazelnuts, raw or pre-roasted
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar or your preferred sweetener
- 2–3 tablespoons neutral oil (such as hazelnut oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them for 10-15 minutes, or until the skins start to crack and the nuts are fragrant.
- Remove the Skins: Let the hazelnuts cool slightly, then transfer them to a clean kitchen towel. Rub the hazelnuts vigorously with the towel to remove most of the skins. Don’t worry if some skins remain; they won’t significantly affect the texture of your spread.
- Blend the Hazelnuts: Place the roasted, skinned hazelnuts in a food processor or high-powered blender. Process the nuts until they become a smooth, creamy butter, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. This can take 5-10 minutes, depending on your equipment.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Once the hazelnuts have turned into a smooth butter, add the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt (if using). Blend until fully incorporated. Gradually add the oil, one tablespoon at a time, until the spread reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the hazelnut spread and adjust the sweetness or cocoa level as needed. If you prefer a sweeter or more chocolatey spread, add more sugar or cocoa and blend again.
- Store the Spread: Transfer the finished hazelnut spread to an airtight jar and store it at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to a month. If the spread hardens in the fridge, you can gently warm it up to soften before using.
Notes
- Customization: One of the best things about homemade hazelnut spread is the ability to customize it to your liking. If you prefer a darker, richer spread, increase the amount of cocoa powder or add melted dark chocolate. For a smoother, milder flavor, use less cocoa and a touch more vanilla. You can also experiment with different oils, such as hazelnut oil for a more intense nutty flavor or coconut oil for a hint of tropical sweetness.
- Texture Control: If you prefer a chunkier spread, blend the hazelnuts to a slightly coarse consistency, stopping just before they become a full butter. Conversely, for an ultra-smooth spread, blend the nuts for a longer time, adding a bit more oil if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your hazelnut spread at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. If you’ve stored it in the refrigerator and it has hardened, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or warm it slightly in the microwave or over a double boiler to soften it before use.