There’s something wonderfully comforting about the moment you open a jar of hazelnut chocolate spread, the rich aroma wafting up to greet you like a long-lost friend. I embarked on a mission to create a homemade version that would not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also be a deliciously healthy choice. This vegan hazelnut chocolate spread is a game-changer – it’s creamy, decadent, and perfectly balanced with just the right hint of sweetness.
After countless store-bought disappointments, I decided it was time to craft my own. With only a handful of ingredients, this recipe transforms simple hazelnuts into a velvety delight that makes every breakfast feel like a special occasion. Imagine slathering this heavenly spread on crusty bread or drizzling it over pancakes – pure bliss! And the best part? It’s dairy-free and vegan, making it perfect for everyone. Join me as we whip up this delightful concoction that will bring a touch of gourmet goodness to your kitchen!
Why is Hazelnut chocolate spread so popular?
Irresistible Taste: The blend of rich chocolate and nutty hazelnuts creates a flavor sensation that’s simply unforgettable.
Effortless Preparation: With only a few steps, you’ll have this gourmet treat ready to enjoy, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
Vegan Delight: This recipe caters to a wide audience, being dairy-free and vegan, so everyone can indulge guilt-free.
Endless Versatility: Use it as a spread, a dip, or even a filling—this hazelnut chocolate spread elevates any dish it touches.
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it offers a sweet option without compromising on health.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for breakfasts or dessert, you’ll impress family and friends with this homemade twist on a classic favorite.
Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Ingredients
Discover what you’ll need to create your own delightful hazelnut chocolate spread!
For the Base
- Hazelnuts – Provides the nutty base; for convenience, you can substitute with store-bought hazelnut butter, though the texture may differ.
- Double Cream/Vegan Cream Alternative – Enhances creaminess; if you prefer a plant-based version, coconut cream works beautifully.
For Sweetness
- Icing Sugar – Adds smooth sweetness; feel free to use powdered coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic sweetness that elevates the overall flavor profile.
For Richness
- Dark Chocolate (60-65% cocoa solids) – Contributes depth and richness; for a completely dairy-free treat, opt for vegan chocolate.
- Cocoa Powder – Adds even more chocolate flavor and richness to the spread.
For Balance
- Sea Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors, making this hazelnut chocolate spread sing.
How to Make Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
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Toast the Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C Fan/Gas 5). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking tray and toast them for about 15 minutes, until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
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Blend Hazelnuts: Transfer the roasted hazelnuts to a food processor. Add the icing sugar and blend for 4-5 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Melt Chocolate and Cream: In a saucepan, gently heat the vegan cream alternative over low heat. Stir in sea salt and cocoa powder, then pour this mixture over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until glossy and well combined.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the smooth hazelnut mixture and vanilla extract to the melted chocolate. Blend until everything is harmoniously combined, creating a rich and creamy texture.
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Jar and Cool: Pour the hazelnut chocolate spread into a sterilized jar. Allow it to set at room temperature for preferentially overnight, so the flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Hazelnut Chocolate Spread options are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can toast and blend the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can melt the chocolate and vegan cream mixture ahead of time, allowing it to cool before combining with the hazelnut mixture. When you’re ready to enjoy your spread, simply combine the prepped components and pour into a sterilized jar. This way, you’ll have a gourmet treat ready to serve with minimal effort, making busy mornings a breeze while keeping your hazelnut chocolate spread just as delicious!
Storage Tips for Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
Room Temperature: Store your hazelnut chocolate spread in a cool, dry place for up to 1 month. Ensure the jar is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Refrigerate the spread for extended freshness. It will keep for up to 2 months. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using to soften.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying your delicious spread.
Reheating: If the spread hardens, gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds or stir it vigorously to restore its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Homemade Vegan Hazelnut Chocolate Spread?
Elevate your breakfast or snack time by exploring delightful pairings that bring out the richness of this heavenly spread.
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Crusty White Bread: Enjoy the classic combination of fresh, warm bread that adds a lovely contrast to the creamy, chocolatey spread. The crunch of the crust enhances the velvety texture, creating a satisfying bite.
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Fluffy Pancakes: Drizzle generously over fluffy pancakes for a decadent breakfast that will make your mornings feel special. The warm pancakes soak up the spread, making each forkful an indulgent treat.
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Fresh Strawberries: Serve with ripe strawberries for a refreshing contrast. The tartness of the berries beautifully balances chocolate’s sweetness while adding a splash of color to your plate.
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Banana Slices: Pair with banana slices for a simple yet delicious snack. The natural sweetness of bananas complements the rich, nutty flavors for a little taste of heaven.
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Almond Butter: Combine with almond butter for a nutty delight. Spread both on toast for a concoction that’s texture-rich and flavor-packed—perfect for those who savor nutty profiles.
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Oatmeal: Stir into warm oatmeal for a delightful breakfast upgrade. The spread melts into the oats, creating a creamy, chocolatey bowl that will keep you satisfied throughout the morning.
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Greek Yogurt: Add a dollop to a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt topped with nuts for an easy dessert. This pairing adds protein, crunch, and a dose of decadence!
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Iced Coffee: Enjoy with a chilled iced coffee for a refreshingly sweet pairing. The chocolate flavors harmonize beautifully, making your afternoon coffee break extra special.
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Dairy-Free Milkshake: Blend with almond milk and bananas for a rich, creamy milkshake. This refreshing treat is a fantastic way to enjoy the luscious flavors of your hazelnut chocolate spread.
Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful spread and make it truly your own!
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of hazelnuts for a nut-free alternative that’s equally delicious.
- Sugar-Free: Opt for a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia for a healthier, low-calorie version without sacrificing sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising and delightful warmth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
- Coconut Bliss: Fold in shredded coconut to give your hazelnut chocolate spread a tropical twist and extra texture.
- Almond Chocolate: Swap hazelnuts for almonds to create an almond chocolate spread—a nutty variation that is just as irresistible.
- Coffee Infusion: Stir in a teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
- Maple Sweetness: Replace icing sugar with pure maple syrup for a naturally sweetened twist that adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Hazelnut Chocolate Swirl: Add swirls of melted vegan chocolate on top before setting for an extra chocolatey, visually appealing finish.
Each variation tells a story, inviting you to craft a spread that speaks to your personal taste. Enjoy exploring these options!
Expert Tips for Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
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Smooth Texture: Blend the hazelnuts thoroughly for a velvety finish. Stop and scrape the sides to avoid any graininess in your hazelnut chocolate spread.
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Chocolate Choice: Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Ensure it’s dairy-free if you want to keep the spread vegan and guilt-free.
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Room Temperature Setting: Let the spread sit at room temperature rather than refrigerating initially; this helps maintain its creamy consistency.
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Alternate Sweeteners: If you prefer, swap icing sugar for powdered coconut sugar for a healthier version without sacrificing sweetness.
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Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to try using different nuts or adding spices like cinnamon for a unique twist on your homemade spread.
Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe hazelnuts for the spread?
When choosing hazelnuts, look for those that are firm and free from any dark spots or blemishes. The best hazelnuts should feel heavy for their size and have a slight sheen. Avoid any that smell rancid or stale, as freshness is key to a delicious spread!
How should I store my homemade hazelnut chocolate spread?
You can store your hazelnut chocolate spread in a cool, dry place for up to 1 month if the jar is kept tightly sealed. For better longevity, refrigerate it, where it will last for up to 2 months. Always let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before using, as cooling can make it harder to spread.
Can I freeze hazelnut chocolate spread for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze your hazelnut chocolate spread, transfer it into an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and stir or gently warm it in the microwave to restore its creamy texture!
What if my hazelnut spread turns out grainy?
If your spread is grainy, it likely means the hazelnuts weren’t blended long enough. Don’t worry! You can return it to the food processor and blend for an additional 2-3 minutes, pausing to scrape down the sides. Keep blending until smooth, remembering to be patient—the smooth texture is worth it!
Is this recipe safe for people with nut allergies or dietary restrictions?
This recipe is not suitable for those with tree nut allergies, since hazelnuts are a type of nut. However, for those avoiding dairy, this hazelnut chocolate spread is vegan and completely dairy-free. If you are concerned about allergens, consider using certified gluten-free ingredients and double-checking your chocolate and cream alternatives.
Creamy Homemade Hazelnut Chocolate Spread You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C Fan/Gas 5). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking tray and toast them for about 15 minutes, until they turn golden brown and fragrant.
- Transfer the roasted hazelnuts to a food processor. Add the icing sugar and blend for 4-5 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides, until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a saucepan, gently heat the vegan cream alternative over low heat. Stir in sea salt and cocoa powder, then pour this mixture over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until glossy and well combined.
- Add the smooth hazelnut mixture and vanilla extract to the melted chocolate. Blend until everything is harmoniously combined, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- Pour the hazelnut chocolate spread into a sterilized jar. Allow it to set at room temperature for preferentially overnight, so the flavors meld beautifully.