Homemade Healthier Nutella
Ingredients:
• 1 cup hazelnuts
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Instructions:
1. Roast the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 15–20 minutes, until the skins begin to darken and crack.
2. Remove Skins (Optional but recommended)
Let the hazelnuts cool slightly.
Rub them in a clean kitchen towel or between your hands to remove as much of the skins as possible (don’t worry if a few bits remain).
3. Blend Hazelnuts into Nut Butter
Add the roasted (and mostly peeled) hazelnuts to a food processor.
Blend for 5–10 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed, until the mixture becomes a smooth, creamy nut butter.
4. Melt the Chocolate
In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil, stirring until smooth.
Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Everything
Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the food processor with the hazelnut butter.
Blend until everything is smooth and fully combined. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure an even texture.
6. Cool and Store
Let the spread cool slightly, then transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
Store at room temperature for up to 1 week, or in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks (it may firm up when chilled, so let it sit out before spreading #Nutella #healthy
Creating your own healthier Nutella at home is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved chocolate hazelnut spread without the added sugars and preservatives found in store-bought versions. Using just a few wholesome ingredients—hazelnuts, chocolate chips, coconut oil, and vanilla extract—you can craft a creamy, flavorful spread that satisfies your sweet tooth while providing nutritional benefits. Roasting the hazelnuts not only enhances their flavor but also makes it easier to remove the skins, which can add a slightly bitter taste if left intact. Removing the skins is optional but recommended for a smoother and more refined taste. Blending the hazelnuts into a smooth nut butter is the critical step, as the continuous processing releases the natural oils, creating the creamy texture essential to Nutella. Melting chocolate chips with coconut oil ensures the mixture stays smooth and easy to spread. Coconut oil adds healthy fats that can contribute to heart health and provide a natural sweetness. The vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor, giving your homemade spread an aroma similar to commercial Nutella but without artificial additives. This homemade Nutella can be kept at room temperature for about a week or refrigerated for up to two to three weeks. Keep in mind that refrigeration will cause the spread to firm up, so allowing it to sit at room temperature before use will make it easier to enjoy. This recipe is also versatile—you can adjust the chocolate amount or use dark chocolate chips for a richer, slightly less sweet taste. By making your own Nutella, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid unnecessary sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives. This healthier alternative is perfect for those who want to indulge mindfully. Plus, it’s a fun kitchen project that yields delicious results, perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over fruits, or incorporating into baked goods. Remember, including hazelnuts and chocolate chips in your diet not only adds flavor but also provides beneficial nutrients like healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. So, enjoy your homemade healthier Nutella as a treat that nourishes your body while delighting your taste buds.
do you have to store in the fridge?