The tantalizing aroma of roasted hazelnuts wafts through my kitchen as I embark on a delicious adventure crafting my very own Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, smooth chocolate spread that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also keeps your health goals in check. Packed with wholesome goodness, this homemade Nutella recipe is a game-changer, offering a guilt-free treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. With fewer calories and none of the preservatives found in store-bought options, you can enjoy a rich, nutty flavor that’s incredibly versatile—from spreading on toast to swirling into your morning oatmeal. Curious how to make this creamy delight at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Make Homemade Nutella?
Rich, Indulgent Flavor: Experience the deep, chocolate-hazelnut richness in every spoonful, elevated by high-quality ingredients.
Healthier Choice: This creamy spread is low in calories, dairy-free, and sugar-free, making it a guilt-free indulgence for everyone.
Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your liking with various options like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this delectable treat in just a few simple steps—perfect for busy mornings!
Versatile Use: Enjoy it not just on toast, but as a delightful dip for fruits or a decadent addition to baked goods. Curious about other delightful spreads? Check out our Pancakes Friendly Mornings and Tamale Pie for more delicious recipes!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Impress your family and friends with this homemade version that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Homemade Nutella Ingredients
For the Base
• Hazelnuts – The star ingredient, delivering a creamy texture and nutty flavor; for a twist, you can use almonds.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness; opt for high-quality extract for the best results.
• Cocoa Powder – Gives that beloved chocolatey character; choose unsweetened for a healthier option.
For Sweetness
• Sweetener of Choice – Provides delightful sweetness while keeping it healthy; options include maple syrup for vegan or erythritol for a keto-friendly homemade Nutella.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust to taste for balance.
For Creaminess
• Milk or Oil – Optional for an even creamier texture; use non-dairy milk to keep it vegan, or coconut oil for a flavorful touch.
This Homemade Nutella recipe opens up a world of flavor while keeping your health in mind!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Nutella Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer and roast them for 6-8 minutes until they are lightly golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. The roasted hazelnuts are essential for creating the rich base of your Homemade Nutella.
Step 2: Remove the Skins
Once the hazelnuts are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Place the warm hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub them together to remove as much of the skin as possible. This step enhances the smoothness of your Nutella. Any remaining bits of skin are okay; just aim to get most of it off.
Step 3: Blend the Hazelnuts
In a high-powered blender or food processor, add the skinned hazelnuts. Blend on high speed for about 10-20 minutes until the nuts transform into a smooth, creamy nut butter. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides. This process develops the luscious texture you want in your Homemade Nutella.
Step 4: Add Cocoa and Sweetener
Once you have a velvety nut butter, add cocoa powder, pure vanilla extract, your chosen sweetener, and a pinch of salt to the blender. Blend again until all ingredients combine beautifully, forming a creamy chocolate spread. If you desire a smoother consistency, incorporate a splash of non-dairy milk or a drizzle of coconut oil during this process.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency and Flavor
Taste your Homemade Nutella and adjust the sweetness or consistency as needed. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more sweetener and blend again. For a creamier texture, blend in an extra tablespoon of milk or oil. This step allows you to create the perfect spread tailored to your taste preferences.
Step 6: Store Your Nutella
Transfer your rich, creamy Homemade Nutella into a clean, airtight container. If you’ve used milk, be sure to store it in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer shelf life without milk, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy your delightful creation on toast, pancakes, or straight from the spoon!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Nutella treats are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast and skin the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they are ready for blending when you are. Just store the prepared nuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can blend the hazelnuts into nut butter and combine with cocoa powder, sweetener, and vanilla, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving. When ready to enjoy your Homemade Nutella, simply give it a quick stir to bring back the creaminess, and if desired, add a splash of non-dairy milk for an even smoother texture. This way, you save time on busy mornings while still indulging in a delicious, homemade treat!
Storage Tips for Homemade Nutella
- Room Temperature: Without milk, you can store your Homemade Nutella in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Perfect for easy access during breakfast or snack time!
- Fridge: If you’ve added milk, keep your Nutella in the refrigerator to ensure freshness; it will last for about 2-3 weeks. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before spreading.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place your Homemade Nutella in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before use to regain its creamy texture.
- Reheating: If you prefer a smoother consistency after refrigerating, give your Homemade Nutella a quick stir to re-emulsify ingredients before enjoying.
Expert Tips for Homemade Nutella
• Roasting Perfection: Keep a close watch while roasting the hazelnuts; just a minute too long can lead to bitterness.
• Texture Matters: For the smoothest homemade Nutella, use a high-powered blender or food processor, blending for 10-20 minutes to achieve the desired creaminess.
• Sweeter Solutions: Remember that different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness. Start with less and adjust to avoid overpowering your homemade Nutella.
• Creaminess Adjustment: If your Nutella is too thick, adding a little almond milk or coconut oil can enhance the texture without compromising your health goals.
• Storage Tips: Without dairy, store your homemade Nutella at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the fridge for up to two months to maintain freshness.
What to Serve with Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella?
Indulge in a delightful mealtime experience that elevates this luscious chocolate spread into an unforgettable feast.
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Whole Grain Toast: The nutty flavor and chewy texture of whole grain toast perfectly complement the creamy sweetness of Homemade Nutella.
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Fresh Fruit Skewers: Juicy apples and bananas dipped in rich Nutella create a fresh and fruity contrast.
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Oatmeal Bowl: Swirl this chocolate-hazelnut delight into warm oatmeal for a decadent yet wholesome breakfast.
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Pancakes or Waffles: Drizzle Homemade Nutella over fluffy pancakes or waffles for a weekend brunch treat that everyone loves.
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Nutella Sandwiches: Create simple sandwiches using your favorite bread; the spread between slices makes for an instant favorite among kids.
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Cookies and Brownies: Use Homemade Nutella as a filling in cookies or as a topping on brownies to create dreamy, indulgent treats.
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Ice Cream Topping: Melt a bit of Homemade Nutella and drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for a quick, indulgent dessert.
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Coffee or Tea: Pair your nutty spread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a comforting afternoon break.
Homemade Nutella Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful spread to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Nut Swap: Replace hazelnuts with almonds for a different nutty flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
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Flavor Boost: Add cinnamon or instant coffee for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates your homemade Nutella. A little goes a long way, enhancing the chocolate flavor beautifully.
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Sugar-Free Option: Use erythritol or stevia as a natural, low-calorie sweetener to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence without the sugar.
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Creamy Upgrade: Incorporate coconut oil along with non-dairy milk for an ultra-smooth texture and a subtle hint of tropical flavor—so luxurious!
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Nutty Texture: Blend in some chopped nuts or cacao nibs after the main blending process for a satisfying crunch that adds both flavor and texture.
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Mild Sweetener: Swap out regular sweeteners for maple syrup or agave nectar for a touch of maple sweetness that will transport your taste buds to blissful mornings.
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Chocolate Lovers Delight: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa for a richer chocolate experience that truly satisfies that chocolate craving.
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Spicy Kick: For the adventurous, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected heat that complements the sweet and nutty flavors, tantalizing your palate.
Want to experiment with other delightful spreads? Check out our yummy Pancakes Friendly Mornings and the comforting Tamale Pie for more inspiration!
Homemade Nutella Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe hazelnuts for the Homemade Nutella?
Absolutely! When selecting hazelnuts, look for ones that are plump, firm, and have a uniform light brown color. Avoid any with dark spots, blemishes, or signs of mold. If you’re using raw hazelnuts, choose organic if possible for the best taste!
How should I store my Homemade Nutella, and how long will it last?
If you’ve made it without milk, your Homemade Nutella can be stored in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. However, if you’ve added non-dairy milk, keep it in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 2-3 weeks. Just ensure it’s sealed tightly to maintain freshness!
Can I freeze my Homemade Nutella?
Absolutely! For longer storage, place your Homemade Nutella in a well-closed, airtight container or freezer-safe glass jar. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, and give it a quick stir to restore the creamy texture.
What should I do if my Homemade Nutella is too thick?
Not a problem! If your Homemade Nutella ends up too thick, simply blend in a splash of non-dairy milk or a drizzle of coconut oil to achieve your desired consistency. It’s all about tailoring the texture to your liking, so don’t hesitate to experiment a little until it’s just right!
Is Homemade Nutella safe for those with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, if someone has a nut allergy, they should avoid this Homemade Nutella recipe. For nut-free alternatives, consider using sunflower seed butter with similar flavorings to achieve a spreadable delight without the risk of nut exposure. Always be cautious with allergies and consult a healthcare provider if in doubt!
Irresistibly Creamy Homemade Nutella Recipe You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer and roast them for 6-8 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Once the hazelnuts are roasted, remove them from the oven and let them cool. Rub the hazelnuts in a kitchen towel to remove as much of the skin as possible.
- In a high-powered blender or food processor, blend the skinned hazelnuts on high speed for about 10-20 minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Add cocoa powder, vanilla extract, chosen sweetener, and a pinch of salt to the nut butter and blend again until well combined.
- Taste your Homemade Nutella and adjust sweetness or consistency by adding more sweetener or a splash of milk/oil.
- Transfer your Homemade Nutella into a clean, airtight container. If using milk, store it in the fridge for 2-3 weeks; without milk, keep it at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
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