If you have ever dreamed of capturing that rich, creamy, chocolate-hazelnut goodness right in your own kitchen, this Homemade Nutella Recipe is exactly what you need. It transforms simple ingredients like roasted hazelnuts, cocoa, and a touch of vanilla into a luscious spread that rivals the store-bought version, but with a freshness and depth of flavor you just cannot beat. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into yogurt, or enjoying it straight from the jar, this recipe is pure magic in a spoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Behind every unforgettable Homemade Nutella Recipe lies a few simple, quality ingredients that each bring their own unique touch. From the toasty warmth of hazelnuts to the deep richness of cocoa, these elements combine perfectly to create that silky texture and satisfying flavor.
- Hazelnuts (2 cups, 240g): The star of the show, roasted until fragrant for a buttery, nutty base.
- Pure vanilla extract (1/4 tsp): Adds subtle aromatic sweetness that rounds out the chocolate notes brilliantly.
- Cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Use unsweetened for rich, intense chocolate flavor that isn’t overpowering.
- Sweetener of choice (1/3 cup): Whether it’s sugar, honey, or a natural alternative, this balances bitterness with the perfect hint of sweet.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop in the most delightful way.
- Milk or oil (1/2 cup milk or 2 tbsp oil, optional): Helps achieve that signature silky spreadability and smooth texture depending on your preference.
How to Make Homemade Nutella Recipe
Step 1: Roast and Remove Skins from Hazelnuts
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to roast the hazelnuts. Roasting them for about 6 to 8 minutes develops a deep, toasty flavor essential for authentic homemade Nutella. Once out of the oven, rub the hazelnuts in a paper towel to remove as much of the skins as possible. Don’t worry if some stubborn bits remain; they add character and texture to the spread.
Step 2: Blend Hazelnuts into Nut Butter
Transfer the roasted hazelnuts into a food processor or a powerful blender like a Vitamix. This step requires patience, as the nuts need to be processed thoroughly to become creamy butter. It may take up to twenty minutes in a food processor, and you’ll want to scrape down the sides periodically. When you see a smooth, buttery consistency, you’ve hit the sweet spot.
Step 3: Add Cocoa, Vanilla, Sweetener, and Salt
Now it’s time to mix in the flavor boosters. Add the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, sweetener, and salt to the hazelnut butter. Blend these together until everything is fully incorporated and the spread is velvety with an even chocolate hue. This step gives the classic Nutella balance between nutty richness and chocolaty sweetness.
Step 4: Customize Texture with Milk or Oil
To achieve that signature smooth and spreadable texture, slowly add your choice of milk or oil while blending. Milk will keep the spread lighter, while oil (such as hazelnut oil or a neutral oil) lends a creamier, richer feel. Keep blending until everything is perfectly smooth and luscious.
How to Serve Homemade Nutella Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted hazelnut pieces or a dusting of cocoa powder over your Homemade Nutella Recipe when serving to add a delightful crunch and extra chocolate punch. A light swirl of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey can turn a simple snack into an indulgent treat.
Side Dishes
Spread this Homemade Nutella Recipe on warm baguette slices, pancakes, waffles, or just plain toast for a delicious start to your day. Pair it with fresh fruits like bananas and strawberries to create pops of freshness, or spoon it over vanilla ice cream for a luscious dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Use this nutty cocoa spread as a filling in crepes or swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for a morning boost. You can even layer it between cake layers or use it as a dip for pretzels and cookies. The possibilities are endless when you have a homemade spread this versatile and irresistible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
A batch of Homemade Nutella Recipe keeps wonderfully in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to two weeks or in the fridge for about a month. Just make sure to give it a good stir if separated and keep it sealed to preserve that fresh, creamy texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep your homemade spread for longer, freezing is a great option. Store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the refrigerator before use. Keep in mind texture changes may occur, so stirring after thawing is recommended.
Reheating
When your Nutella feels too firm from chilling or freezing, gently warm it in a bowl over hot water or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. This will bring back that spreadable, luscious texture without overheating or sacrificing flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of hazelnuts?
While hazelnuts are traditional and give Nutella its unique flavor, you can experiment with almonds or cashews for a different nut butter twist. Keep in mind the taste and texture will change, but it can still be delicious!
What type of sweetener works best in this recipe?
Granulated sugar or powdered sugar offers the closest match to classic Nutella sweetness. However, honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar can be used for a more natural or nuanced sweetness, though they may alter texture slightly.
Do I need a food processor or can I use a blender?
A food processor generally works best because it handles nuts more effectively. High-powered blenders like Vitamix can also do the job but may require stopping frequently to scrape and avoid overheating.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Simply choose a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and ensure your sweetener is vegan-friendly. This way, your Homemade Nutella Recipe stays rich and creamy without any animal products.
How long does it take to roast hazelnuts properly?
Roasting at 400°F for 6 to 8 minutes is ideal. You want them to start browning and smelling fragrant, but not burnt. This step is crucial for unlocking that deep nutty flavor.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Homemade Nutella Recipe is not only rewarding but deeply satisfying — from the toasty aroma filling your kitchen to that first spoonful melting on your tongue. It’s a lovely way to bring joy and a homemade touch to your snacks and breakfasts. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought spreads again!
Print
Homemade Nutella Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Spread
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This homemade Nutella recipe delivers a rich, creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread made from scratch using roasted hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and a sweetener of your choice. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or enjoying by the spoonful, this recipe offers a delicious alternative to store-bought versions with the ability to customize sweetness and texture. The recipe is simple, quick, and uses a food processor or blender to achieve the perfect smoothness.
Ingredients
Nutella Ingredients
- 2 cups hazelnuts (240g)
- 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/3 cup sweetener of choice (such as sugar, honey, or maple syrup)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (or 2 tbsp oil, optional for creaminess)
Instructions
- Roast Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast for 6-8 minutes or until they begin to brown and become fragrant.
- Remove Skins: Transfer the roasted hazelnuts to a paper towel and rub them together vigorously to remove most of the skins. Some stubborn skins may remain, and that’s fine.
- Blend Hazelnuts into Butter: Place the skinned hazelnuts into a food processor or high-powered blender. Blend continuously until the nuts release their oils and form a smooth butter. This can take up to 20 minutes, so be patient and scrape the sides as needed.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Once the hazelnut butter is smooth, add the vanilla extract, cocoa powder, sweetener, and salt. Blend again for several minutes until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
- Add Milk or Oil (Optional): To achieve a creamier, more spreadable texture, slowly add the milk or oil while blending until you reach the desired consistency.
- Store and Serve: Transfer your homemade Nutella to a clean jar and store in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to two weeks. Stir before each use as some separation may occur.
Notes
- Roasting is key to developing the nutty flavor and making skin removal easier.
- Removing hazelnut skins is optional but improves texture and taste.
- Sweetener choice can be adjusted to dietary preferences – sugar, honey, or maple syrup work well.
- Milk can be dairy or plant-based; oil options include hazelnut or vegetable oil for a smoother spread.
- Blending time varies by equipment; be patient to achieve a creamy consistency.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before spreading for easier use.
