Homemade Nutella

This Homemade Nutella is even better than the ones in the store. Nutty, chocolaty, and with a hint of vanilla, this thick spread is richly flavored, sweet, and delicious.

Once you've tried Nutella, it's hard not to be addicted to the flavor. There is something so decadent about the combination of roasted hazelnuts with chocolate. This homemade Nutella uses delicious oat milk and a splash of vanilla to enhance the flavors and aroma. This hazelnut spread is thick and creamy, and sweetened by maple syrup. Yum.

Making this homemade Nutella is also much healthier than buying a jar in the store. You get the same delicious flavors without having to include the preservatives needed to keep it fresh on the shelf for months. This recipe is easy to follow and you'll love the more healthful ingredients used. Raw hazelnuts, pure cacao powder, and real maple syrup combine to make a scrumptious spread that is perfect for meals and snacking. Let's look at what you'll need for Homemade Nutella.

Video Tutorial

What you'll need

• Hazelnuts. Use raw blanched hazelnuts. If using unblanched, you will need to peel the skin after roasting.
• Cacao powder. Make sure you use pure cacao powder, not the sweetened cocoa stuff.
• Sweetener. Maple syrup, agave syrup, or another sweetener can be used.
• Milk. I love using oat milk. Other milk alternatives could be used instead. Full-fat coconut milk also works.
• Vanilla Extract. Optional ingredient. It adds a pleasant aroma.

How to make Homemade Nutella

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place the hazelnuts on the sheet. Roast them for 12 to 15 minutes, watching them closely after the 10th minute, to make sure they are not browning too fast. Let them cool.

2. Place the hazelnuts in the food processor and process until finely ground. Scrape the sides of the food processor bowl as needed.

3. At this point, add the cacao powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend for another minute.

4. Now, start adding the oat milk gradually. Keep processing until it looks smooth. (Please note, that it will appear a bit runny at this point, but it will start thickening up as it cools down).

How to roast hazelnuts

As with peanut butter, you need to roast the nuts before turning them into a butter. It helps with releasing the oils from the nuts. Just place the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes at 350°F. To easily get rid of the skins, place the roasted nuts on a clean kitchen towel and rub them until the skins comes off. It’s really easy. I buy Blanched Hazelnuts by Sincerely Nuts.

How to store Homemade Nutella.

This Nutella can be stored in a airtight container, like a mason jar, in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 10 days.

Tips and Tricks

• Toast the Hazelnuts. This step is crucial in this recipe. I think it's best to roast the nuts yourself versus buying them roasted from the store. This is very easy to do in less than 15 minutes.
• Use good quality cacao. A lot of people confuse cacao and cocoa, but cacao powder is what cocoa is made from. Cacao is unsweetened and pure, while cocoa usually has lots of sweeteners and preservatives. Get the good-quality cacao for this.
• Use food processor. Most blenders are not powerful enough, so you will need a good strong food processor. Otherwise, you won't be able to grind the hazelnuts as finely as needed for a smooth spread.

How to enjoy it

• On bread. Spread it on a slice of toasted bread, and add fresh fruit on top. I also like to sprinkle some hemp seeds and/or cacao nibs for extra texture and health benefits.
• Crepes. Use it in your crepes. This Nutella makes a perfect filling for your Vegan Crepes. Just spread a spoonful of this goodness, add fruits and berries, fold it, and enjoy!
• As is! Grab a spoon and dig in!
• With baked goods. Add some to your oatmeal, waffles, pancakes, cakes, and other favorites.

This Homemade Nutella has such a smooth, thick texture with rich flavors that work so well together. Once you try this scrumptious recipe, you won't want to buy Nutella at the store again. Enjoy!

Psst! I think you'd really enjoy this Roasted Cabbage!