Creating a homemade Nutella substitute is a fun and customizable project. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
• 1 cup hazelnuts (roasted and peeled)
• 1/4 cup raw cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup pitted dates or use powdered sugar (less healthy option)
• 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Roast and Peel Hazelnuts:
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-12 minutes until fragrant and the skins start to crack.
• Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Rub the hazelnuts in a kitchen towel to remove most of the skins.
2. Make Hazelnut Butter:
• Place the roasted hazelnuts and pitted dates in a food processor or high-powered blender.
• Blend until the hazelnuts turn into a smooth butter. This can take a few minutes; scrape down the sides of the processor bowl as needed.
3. Add Cocoa and Sugar:
• Once the hazelnuts are creamy, add the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
• Continue to blend until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Add Oil:
• With the blender or food processor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil or melted coconut oil until the mixture reaches a spreadable consistency. Add more oil if needed.
5. Adjust Sweetness and Texture:
• Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness with more powdered sugar if desired.
• If the spread is too thick, add a bit more oil and blend until it reaches your desired consistency.
6. Store and Enjoy:
• Transfer your homemade Nutella substitute to a clean jar or container.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adjusting the sweetness, cocoa intensity, or adding other flavors like cinnamon or a touch of sea salt. Enjoy your homemade hazelnut chocolate spread!