Gourmet Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Indulge in a silky, rich chocolate hazelnut spread made with wholesome, natural ingredients—completely gluten-free and dairy-free! Perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or enjoying straight from the jar, this homemade vegan treat is a delicious substitute for traditional Nutella.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Hazelnuts
1 cup (Roasted)
Cocoa powder
1/4 cup (Unsweetened)
Agave nectar
5 tablespoons (Raw)
Vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (Pure)
Hazelnut oil
1 tablespoon (Cold-pressed)
Celtic sea salt
1 pinch (To taste)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet and roast them for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn a golden brown and emit a nutty aroma.
2
Transfer the roasted hazelnuts to a clean kitchen towel and rub them with the towel to remove as much of the skin as possible. While it's okay if some skin remains, aim to remove the majority for a smoother texture.
3
Place the hazelnuts into a food processor and blend on high for approximately 5 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. Continue blending until the nuts become a smooth, creamy butter.
4
Add the cocoa powder, agave nectar, vanilla extract, hazelnut oil, and a pinch of Celtic sea salt to the food processor. Blend for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the mixture is fully combined and has a uniform consistency.
5
Transfer the spread into a glass mason jar and seal tightly. Store in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
6
When ready to enjoy, let the spread come to room temperature to reach its ideal creamy texture.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gourmet Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Spread?
It is a rich, silky, and decadent homemade spread made from roasted hazelnuts and cocoa, designed as a dairy-free and gluten-free alternative to traditional chocolate spreads.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan as it uses agave nectar as a sweetener and contains no dairy products.
Does this chocolate hazelnut spread contain gluten?
No, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 6 wholesome ingredients: hazelnuts, cocoa powder, agave nectar, vanilla extract, hazelnut oil, and Celtic sea salt.
What is the first step in making this spread?
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and roast the hazelnuts for 8-10 minutes.
How do I know when the hazelnuts are finished roasting?
The hazelnuts are ready when they turn a golden brown color and emit a strong, nutty aroma.
How do I remove the skins from the hazelnuts?
Transfer the roasted hazelnuts to a clean kitchen towel and rub them vigorously to loosen and remove the majority of the skins.
Is it okay if some hazelnut skins remain?
Yes, it is fine if some skin remains, though removing as much as possible ensures a smoother final texture.
What equipment do I need to blend the nuts?
A high-speed food processor is recommended to blend the nuts into a smooth, creamy butter.
How long does it take to turn hazelnuts into butter?
It typically takes about 5 minutes of blending on high, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the processor.
What sweetener is used in this vegan spread?
This recipe uses 5 tablespoons of raw agave nectar for natural sweetness.
Can I use any type of cocoa powder?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to achieve a rich chocolate flavor.
What type of oil is recommended for this recipe?
Cold-pressed hazelnut oil is used to enhance the hazelnut flavor and improve the spread's consistency.
What kind of salt should I use?
A pinch of Celtic sea salt is recommended to balance the sweetness and enhance the chocolate notes.
When do I add the cocoa and agave nectar?
Add the cocoa powder, agave nectar, vanilla, oil, and salt once the hazelnuts have reached a smooth, buttery consistency.
How long do I blend after adding the remaining ingredients?
Blend for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture is fully combined and uniform.
What is the best way to store the finished spread?
Transfer the spread into a glass mason jar and seal it tightly before placing it in the refrigerator.
Should the spread be served cold?
For the ideal creamy texture, let the spread come to room temperature before serving.
What can I serve with this chocolate hazelnut spread?
It is perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over desserts, or using as a fruit dip.
Is this spread a healthy alternative to Nutella?
Yes, it uses natural ingredients, no refined sugars, and is free from the palm oil and dairy found in many commercial brands.
What type of vanilla extract should I use?
Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
It is difficult without a food processor, as the machine's power is needed to release the natural oils from the nuts to create butter.
How much hazelnut oil is required?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of hazelnut oil.
How many hazelnuts do I need?
You will need 1 cup of roasted hazelnuts.
What is the texture of the final product?
The final product should be a silky, rich, and uniform creamy spread.
Is this recipe considered a healthy snack?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy snack due to the use of wholesome nuts and natural sweeteners.
Can I use this as a dessert topping?
Absolutely, it is an excellent dessert topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
Is the hazelnut oil necessary?
The oil helps achieve a smoother, more spreadable consistency, especially after refrigeration.
Can I substitute the agave nectar?
While agave is recommended, you could potentially use maple syrup, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
How do I ensure the best freshness?
Keep the jar tightly sealed and stored in the refrigerator to maintain optimal freshness.