The moment I toasted hazelnuts for the first time, my kitchen was filled with a warm, nutty aroma that instantly transported me to a cozy café in Europe, where blissful mornings were spent savoring rich, decadent spreads. That’s when I decided to create my own creamy hazelnut chocolate spread, something that would not only capture that irresistible childhood indulgence but would also be free from dairy and eggs, perfect for everyone, including my vegan friends.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this spread is not only quick to whip up but utterly versatile as well. Imagine slathering it on warm crusty bread for breakfast or using it as a filling for your favorite pastries! Whether you’re a devoted home chef or someone just looking to spice up your meals and desserts, this hazelnut chocolate spread is destined to delight taste buds and elevate any dish. Let’s get started and transform your pantry staples into a luscious, homemade treat!
Why Love This Hazelnut Chocolate Spread?
Indulgence at its finest: This hazelnut chocolate spread brings a luxurious, creamy flavor that’s perfect for every sweet tooth.
Vegan-Friendly: Made with plant-based ingredients, it’s a treat for everyone, even your vegan friends.
Quick & Easy: With a simple method, you’ll be enjoying delectable spread in no time.
Versatility: Perfect on toast, pancakes, or as a pastry filling, it’s a fantastic way to elevate any dessert.
Lighter Option: Free from dairy and eggs, you can indulge without the guilt!
Savor the richness of homemade goodness – your breakfasts just got a delicious upgrade!
Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Ingredients
For the Base
• Hazelnuts – Provide the base flavor and texture. Alternative: Use hazelnut butter for convenience, though it may not be as smooth.
• Icing Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a silky texture.
• Dark Chocolate (60-65% cocoa solids) – Enriches the spread with deep chocolate flavor. Note: Use dairy-free chocolate for a fully vegan recipe.
For Creaminess
• Double Cream (or Vegan Cream Alternative) – Contributes creaminess. Substitution: Coconut cream can provide a vegan option.
• Sea Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
For Rich Flavor
• Cocoa Powder – Adds depth and intensifies the chocolate taste.
• Vanilla Extract – Introduces warmth and complexity to the flavor.
For Serving
• Crusty White Bread (for serving) – A delicious vehicle for spreading the chocolate goodness.
Embrace the joy of homemade with this luscious hazelnut chocolate spread, perfect for enhancing your favorite dishes!
How to Make Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
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Toast Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C Fan/Gas 5). Spread hazelnuts on a baking tray and roast for about 15 minutes, until they’re aromatic and slightly golden brown.
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Blend Hazelnuts: Once cooled, transfer the toasted hazelnuts to a food processor. Blend them with icing sugar for about 4-5 minutes, until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy.
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Prepare Chocolate Mixture: In a small saucepan, gently simmer double cream (or your chosen vegan alternative), sea salt, and cocoa powder over low heat. Pour this mixture over the chopped dark chocolate in a separate bowl, and stir continuously until it becomes glossy and perfectly smooth.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the hazelnut mixture and vanilla extract into the chocolate until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a luscious, chocolatey consistency.
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Jar and Set: Carefully pour your hazelnut chocolate spread into a sterilized jar. Allow it to cool at room temperature for optimal texture. It’s best if you can leave it overnight to fully set.
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Serve: Spread generously on crusty white bread and savor! Store in the refrigerator for up to a month, but remember to let it come to room temperature for easier spreading.
Optional: For an extra touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before serving for a delightful flavor contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
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Blend Smoothly: Ensure hazelnuts are blended until completely smooth for a silky texture. This may take 4-5 minutes, depending on your blender.
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Right Chocolate Choice: Always select high-quality dairy-free dark chocolate, at least 60-65% cocoa solids, to maintain rich flavor in your hazelnut chocolate spread.
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Room Temperature Setting: Avoid refrigerating the spread right away. Allowing it to cool at room temperature helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
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Flavors Boost: Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to intensify the flavor of your hazelnut chocolate spread.
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Storage Tips: Store in a sterilized jar and keep at room temperature for easy spreading. However, for longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a month.
Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your hazelnut chocolate spread with these delightful twists!
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Nut Swap: Replace hazelnuts with almonds or peanuts for a different nutty flavor and texture. Each nut brings its unique taste while still delivering that creamy spreadability.
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Richness Boost: For a creamier consistency, swap out double cream for coconut cream. The hint of coconut adds an exotic twist, making this spread even more enticing.
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Flavor Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder or a dash of cinnamon for a warm, inviting undertone. These flavors beautifully complement the chocolate while enhancing the overall experience.
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Chocolate Variety: Try different types of chocolate—milk or white—for a sweeter taste. This swap can transform your spread into a dessert centerpiece all on its own!
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy surprise. This unexpected heat works wonders against the backdrop of sweet chocolate.
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Nut Butter Blend: Combine in nut butters such as almond or cashew for a unique flavor profile. This not only adds variety but also elevates the creamy texture.
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Zest & Freshness: Incorporate a bit of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy brightness. It’s a refreshing contrast that takes this spread to a whole new level!
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Sweetener Swap: Substitute icing sugar with maple syrup or agave for a lower glycemic option. This variation offers a different sweetness and is perfect for those looking for alternatives to refined sugar.
Experiment with these variations and discover the endless possibilities of enhancing your hazelnut chocolate spread!
Make Ahead Options
These creamy homemade hazelnut chocolate spreads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can toast the hazelnuts and blend them with icing sugar up to 24 hours in advance. Store the prepared mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, the chocolate mixture can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days before combining with the hazelnut blend. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, simply stir the hazelnut mixture into the cooled chocolate, pour it into a sterilized jar, and let it cool at room temperature. This way, you’ll have a delightful hazelnut chocolate spread ready to elevate your breakfasts with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Hazelnut Chocolate Spread
Room Temperature: Keep your hazelnut chocolate spread at room temperature for up to 3 days for easy spreading and to maintain its luscious consistency.
Fridge: Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 1 month. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: If you need to freeze your spread, do so in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before bringing it back to room temperature.
Reheating: If the spread becomes too firm after refrigeration, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, mixing until smooth. Enjoy your homemade hazelnut chocolate spread with ease!
What to Serve with Homemade Hazelnut Chocolate Spread?
Imagine a delightful breakfast or dessert spread that makes your mornings brighter and your gatherings more special.
- Crusty White Bread: The ultimate pairing for this spread, its texture allows for a delightful smear of rich chocolatey goodness.
- Fresh Berries: Ripe strawberries or raspberries provide a juicy contrast to the creamy spread, elevating both flavor and freshness.
- Pancakes: Fluffy pancakes topped with a luscious drizzle of hazelnut chocolate create a decadent brunch experience that no one can resist.
- Banana Slices: The natural sweetness and creamy texture of bananas pair perfectly with the rich flavor of the spread, an instant classic!
- Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful into warm oatmeal for a sweet, nutty twist that transforms your breakfast bowl into an indulgent treat.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled over yogurt and topped with this hazelnut chocolate spread combines delightful textures and flavors.
- Dairy-free Milkshake: Blend with ice, banana, and dairy-free milk for a dreamy shake that feels like a dessert but is healthy, too!
- Ice Cream: A drizzle over vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates a sublime dessert that melts in your mouth with luxurious flavor.
Let your imagination run wild as you explore these delightful pairings, creating moments filled with warmth, love, and deliciousness!
Hazelnut Chocolate Spread Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe hazelnuts?
Absolutely! To select the best hazelnuts, look for ones that are firm to the touch and have a rich, buttery aroma. Avoid hazelnuts with dark spots or blemishes, as this can indicate spoilage. Fresh hazelnuts should have a light brown color and feel slightly heavy in your hand.
How should I store my chocolate spread?
For optimal texture, keep your hazelnut chocolate spread at room temperature in an airtight jar for up to 3 days. This keeps it spreadable and maintains that creamy consistency. After that, store it in the fridge where it will last for up to 1 month. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for a bit to warm and regain its spreadable form.
Can I freeze hazelnut chocolate spread?
Yes, you can! To freeze your hazelnut chocolate spread, pour it into an airtight container, and make sure to leave some space at the top as it will expand. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, let it come to room temperature for easier spreading.
What if my spread turns out gritty?
Very! If your spread ends up gritty, it’s often because the hazelnuts weren’t blended long enough. To remedy this, return the mixture to the food processor and blend for an additional 1-2 minutes until smooth. If you want an even creamier finish, try adding a bit more double cream or vegan cream alternative until you reach your desired consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, as this hazelnut chocolate spread is primarily made from hazelnuts, it is not safe for individuals with nut allergies. For nut-free alternatives, I suggest trying a sunflower seed butter or sunflower seed based spread, adjusting the recipe proportions accordingly.
Can I use alternative sweeteners instead of icing sugar?
Absolutely! If you’d like to use a different sweetener, you can substitute icing sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar. However, keep in mind that the consistency may change slightly; you may need to reduce other liquid ingredients to achieve a similar creamy texture. Always taste and adjust according to your preference!
Enjoy creating your homemade hazelnut chocolate spread, and don’t hesitate to experiment along the way!
Decadent Hazelnut Chocolate Spread You’ll Want to Spread Everywhere
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C Fan/Gas 5). Spread hazelnuts on a baking tray and roast for about 15 minutes, until they’re aromatic and slightly golden brown.
- Once cooled, transfer the toasted hazelnuts to a food processor. Blend them with icing sugar for about 4-5 minutes, until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy.
- In a small saucepan, gently simmer double cream (or your chosen vegan alternative), sea salt, and cocoa powder over low heat. Pour this mixture over the chopped dark chocolate in a separate bowl, and stir continuously until it becomes glossy and perfectly smooth.
- Stir in the hazelnut mixture and vanilla extract into the chocolate until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a luscious, chocolatey consistency.
- Carefully pour your hazelnut chocolate spread into a sterilized jar. Allow it to cool at room temperature for optimal texture. It’s best if you can leave it overnight to fully set.
- Spread generously on crusty white bread and savor! Store in the refrigerator for up to a month, but remember to let it come to room temperature for easier spreading.