A Healthy ‘Nutella’ recipe with more nuts and less sugar. Chocolatey and creamy… Rich and decadent… Easy to make. Optional Vegan. Chocolate Hazelnut Spread.
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Healthy ‘Nutella’ Recipe – More Nuts, Less Sugar & Insanely Good
This Healthy ‘Nutella’ recipe is insanely good. It’s also seriously addictive. Not just for its deliciousness, but because it is so easy to make. From nut to jar in under 30 minutes, it’s as much as you can do not to set up a daily ‘make and eat’ production line.
Why We NEED Heathy ‘Nutella’
This particular homemade ‘Nutella’ recipe was created back in 2017. With the news that Ferrero had changed the real recipe without telling us, it was time to try making it in the kitchen.
The ‘fine tuning’ of the real recipe apparently resulted in Nutella having an even higher sugar and fat content and fewer hazelnuts… An outrageous and surprisingly out of step shift, given concern about obesity rates and sugar addiction. Nutella already shockingly contained a whopping 55.9% sugar, so the increase to 56.3% seemed totally at odds with the ‘western’ obesity crisis.
Just in case percentages are difficult to visualise… try this for context. A standard (440g) jar of Nutella contains nearly 60 (yes… 60!) cubes of sugar. Plus… Did you know that (according to Mental Floss) one jar of Nutella is sold every 2½ seconds throughout the world.
And let’s not even start on the ‘palm oil’ in Nutella…
Time for radical action… My Homemade more nut, less sugar Chocolate Hazelnut Spread… Delicious, gluten free and even optional vegan.
What goes into Healthy Chocolate Hazelnut Spread?
Hazelnuts
It all starts (as it rightly should) with hazelnuts… Which are really easy to buy in the supermarket. Ultimately you want them to be skinless, but if all you can find are hazelnuts with skins, they are easy to remove. I’ve included instructions in the printable recipe.
I count myself as extra fortunate however. At least in the Autumn.
Living in Kent (aka the ‘Garden of England’), we are lucky to have cobnuts (or filberts)… a local variety of hazelnut. A few years ago we bought a cobnut tree for the garden, because it seemed the thing to do. Although it still has a way to go before it yields a truly great harvest, it is so cool to see a few more nuts ripening each Autumn. It may still be a race to get to them before the squirrels, but the excitement of eating them is way off the scale. And they are divine in chocolate hazelnut spread.
Whatever the hazelnut source however, make sure you roast or toast your hazelnuts when you make ‘Nutella’… The intensity and depth of nuttiness are more than worth the extra step.
Chocolate
I originally trialled for a Vegan ‘Nutella’ recipe which used just cacao or cocoa powder. It worked… Just. But it was thick and grainy and (frankly) not that nice to eat. While I am happy to enjoy a little coarse nuttiness in my chocolate hazelnut spread, I draw the line at powdery and grainy.
This recipe does keep a small amount of cocoa for depth of flavour, but the bulk of its chocolate decadence comes from the addition of real melted chocolate. Trust me. You want creamy ‘Nutella’? You need chocolate.
For the healthiest version, use dark (or very dark) chocolate. The recipe below however, has a balance of dark and milk chocolate for the slightly less ‘grown-up’ amongst us.
For Vegan ‘Nutella’
To be certain your healthy ‘Nutella’ is Vegan, simply make sure all the chocolate is dairy free and plant-based. All the other ingredients are good.
Homemade ‘Nutella’ needs a little oil
Although hazelnuts already contain some oil, homemade ‘Nutella’ still needs a little more… If you actually want to be able to spread the stuff, that is.
I used walnut oil (which is what I had available). But if you can get hold of actual hazelnut oil, so much the better. Or use an alternative mild and complementary oil such as coconut or an alternative nut oil. I would avoid using olive oil or other varieties used for cooking. They are simply too strong and jarring against the delicate nuttiness.
How do I make Chocolate Hazelnut Spread?
Because it’s so easy, I’ve made a little video to show you the highlights…
What equipment do I need to make this Healthy ‘Nutella’ recipe?
Very little equipment is needed, although you crucially need a high-powered, robust blender. If you don’t have one, you won’t be able to get your homemade ‘Nutella’ smooth enough. Of course, if that isn’t an issue, then feel free to go ahead anyway.
I’ll be honest, I am still on the hunt for a really good blender. Although mine has served me well, it is now on its last legs and is needing a replacement. I had originally considered a ‘Froothie’… but having listened to many a blogger moan about them over the last few years, I think they are probably over-rated. If anyone has any good recommendations, please let me know. I’m currently coveting the brands Blendtec and Vitamix… But until I am sure, I won’t recommend anything.
Other than that, you’re going to need a baking tray and oven to roast the hazelnuts. A Bowl (and either microwave or saucepan and hob) to melt the chocolate. A small spatula to scrape down the blender. And some jars to store your chocolate hazelnut spread.
How to Eat Healthy ‘Nutella’
The possibilities are endless… But be warned. It is difficult to leave alone. You may just find yourself spoon in hand, hiding in a dark corner, as you uncontrollably scoop mouthful after mouthful until the jar is clean.
But hold that thought… It is far more civilised spread on toast made with Wholemeal Bread. Or served with gluten free bread sticks, dough balls or Roti Flatbread.
Even better, slather on Pancakes or Gluten Free Waffles…
I also have it on good authority that it is divine spooned onto Almond Shortbread, or dipped with Maple Shortbread. And it is perfect when used to make Nutella Puff Pastry Baskets (Vol au Vents), Nutella Thumbprint Cookies and Nutella Trifle.
Or you could be really kind and share… Healthy Nutella makes the most amazing foodie gift. I know because I make it at Christmas and give it away… And it is still one of the most talked-about gifts I have given.
Made Healthy ‘Nutella’?
Make my day and let me know if you make my Healthy ‘Nutella’ recipe. Leave a comment below, ping me an e-mail or tag me on social media… And don’t forget to subscribe using the box at the bottom of the page, so that you never miss a recipe from us again! Thank you xx
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Healthy ‘Nutella’ – Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Key equipment
- 2 small Kilner/jam jars – Sterile (See NOTES)
- sharp knife
- clean tea towel (if de-skinning nuts)
- Oven
- heavy-duty blender
- small spatula
- microwave or hob and saucepan
Ingredients
- 160 g raw hazelnuts de-skinned – See instructions
- 2½ tbsp walnut oil or alternative nut oil/coconut oil
- 2 tbsp icing sugar confectioners sugar
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract paste (preferably) or powder
- pinch fine sea salt
- 180 g plain chocolate chopped – DF/vegan as required
- 100 g milk chocolate chopped – DF/vegan as required
Instructions
De-Skin the Hazelnuts (if needed)
- Pre-heat the oven to 180 C/350 F/Gas 4.
- Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes (the skins will start to blister slightly).
- Take the hazelnuts out of the oven and wrap in a clean tea-towel. Rub vigorously to remove as much of the skin as possible from the hazelnuts.
Toast the Hazelnuts (optional)
- Turn the oven up to 200 C/400 F/Gas 6.
- Spread the de-skinned hazelnuts on a baking tray and place in the oven.
- Toast for about 10 minutes (raw hazelnuts) until golden. Or about 5 minutes for hazelnuts that you have de-skinned as above (which have already been in the oven). During the toasting, give the nuts a shake on the tray a couple of times to toast evenly and prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and cool a little.
To Make the Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread
- Place the nuts in a heavy duty blender and blend to nut butter (smooth paste)(this will take a few minutes). Make sure you blend in bursts and scrape down the sides of the blender a couple of times to catch all the nut pieces.
- Towards the end of the blend when the nuts are releasing their oil, add the additional oil a little at a time and blend to a smooth liquid.
- Add the icing sugar, cocoa, vanilla and salt and blend again.
- Place the chopped chocolate into a glass heat-proof bowl and use either a microwave (on 30 second bursts at medium setting, stirring between each) or set over a pan of barely simmering water (stirring frequently), to melt the chocolate.
- Pour the liquid chocolate into the blender with the other ingredients and blend again until you have a smooth, even mixture.
- Pour into sterile jars. The spread will be hot and runny from the blending process, but will firm up as it cools.
- Store at room temperature.
Notes
Nutrition
© 2019-2023 Kate Dowse All Rights Reserved – Do not copy or re-publish this recipe or any part of this recipe on any other blog, on social media or in a publication without the express permission of Gluten Free Alchemist
Healthy Nutella shared with :
- Inspire Me Monday #436 with Create With Joy
- Full Plate Thursday #486 with Miz Helen’s Country Cottage
- Creative Muster #386 with Fluster Buster
Love this! It was so delicious, definitely going to make it again! So much better than palm oil filled Nutella that gives me an awful sugar high. I actually made this in my Froothie Evolve and it turned out suuuuuuper smooth. Saw your comment about blenders, and I switched from a Vitamix to an Evolve last year…best decision ever! I don’t think they’re overrated at all TBH, I think they’re actually UNDERrated haha!
Thank you for the amazing recipe <3
Thanks Amrita. Glad you like it. And thanks for the advice on the Froothie. Maybe I’ll think again. I’d heard they were breaking frequently, but maybe they just got dodgy ones! x
Hey Kate, sorry to hear about that! I’ve never had a problem with mine, I’ve had it for 4 years now! Just to let you know I made this again, and I added a caramel that I made with coconut cream and brown sugar….HOLY YUM!
Hope you are having a great week and thanks so much for sharing your awesome post with us at Full Plate Thursday,486. Come back to see us real soon!
Miz Helen
Thanks Helen. You’re welcome. I’ll be back next week. x
Oh yes, my boys would go WILD for this!!!! I really must give it a try as I'm trying to clean the boys diets up a bit this month and we get through a lot of choccie spread!
Well this looks and sounds rather delicious Kate!!
Thank you Renee. It was, for sure x
Really like the idea of using vegan chocolate and then giving jars of this delicious spread as gifts. As well as making it with regular chocolate for us (to eat out of the jar with spoons) to spread on croissants or anything that doesn’t move.
Ha ha! Yes….. There is something rather decadent about a jar of Nutella (home made of course)… spoon in hand! I think a vegan version would be amazing! x
Oh yes! I have to say I try not to use Nutella as the ingredients suck. But homemade is a completely different story. I've been meaning to make some as Christmas gifts every year since the first time I made it, but somehow it never quite gets that far 😉 Thanks for sharing with #WeShouldCocoa.
Thanks Choclette. You're welcome. It would make a perfect Christmas gift!
I've made homemade nutella before and it's so delicious! Love the idea of putting it in jars as gifts.
Absolutely Kat. This is on the gifting list this year for sure x
This sounds AWESOME!!! I am amazed that the recipe has been changed in the way you describe at a time when most manufacturers are finding ways of making their products healthier (even if it's just shrinking the product!!)…but I love your solution – to make your own tastier and healthier version – genius!! Eb x
Thanks Eb.I agree, it almost seems like commercial suicide in today's health climate, but then I question how many people would know. Much better to have a home made version that you know the ingredients for x
Oh my goooooodness yum! I have yet to try to make my own Nutella, so this is inspiration to start trying. Thanks!
You're welcome. It is so easy!! Definitely give it a try xx
Homemade chocolate spread is just so so good (and way too addictive, he he!). Yours looks absolutely divine, and I'd love to give it a try (you know, purely for research purposes!). Thanks for joining in with #FreeFromFridays.
Thanks Mel. You're welcome. But yes….. way too addictive! x
I have never been a great fan of shop bought nutella. In Italy you can now find much healthier and tastier versions with less sugar and better quality ingredients. In Italy Nutella was very popular (particularly) in the 80s when we were bombarded with "Nutella is good for your kids" adverts. At least they are not allowed to say that anymore.
Nutella seem to sell slightly less in Italy these days but doing great abroad. One of the things I don't like about them is that although many products in Italy don't use palm oil anymore Nutella seem to keep using it regardless.
So I really welcome your delicious home made version. Well done it looks delicious!
Yeah….. I remember the 80's adverts. At one level, at least there is some goodness in there, but sadly it is off-set by all the junk they throw in too! So nice to have a home-made healthier option. At least you know exactly what has gone into it! x
I'm obsessed with Nutella but have never thought to make it myself. This looks delicious x
Thanks Cat. I was the same….. Having realised how easy it is to make though, I will definitely be making a regular batch from now on…. x
Had not heard the news about nutella but I know that I much prefer a version like your own but sometimes I just want the lazy comfort of nutella and found out years ago it is mostly sugar and fat with very little hazelnuts so I have very low expectations – but now I wonder if what we have in the shops is the old or new recipes – sylvia very taken by mini jars – though I imagine your spread would be a great christmas gift!!!!!
I know…. It seems crazy to call it 'nut'ella and then reduce the nut ratio! The list of ingredients on the jar is actually quite scary….. but then I wonder how many people actually read them (unless they have a specific reason to check).
This would make a perfect gift…. in fact….. I am off to buy more hazelnuts to make some later xx
Oh wow Kate!! I need this in my life, we all love Nutella but I do worry about all of the sugar so this is ideal! Thank you for sharing with #CookBlogShare x
Thanks Kirsty. You're welcome. It does taste so much better without so much sugar too! x
Wonderful gift for the holidays. The homemade ones are always the best. Thank you for bringing this to FF.
Thanks Liz. Absolutely….. I'm about to make a stash of jars for Christmas gifts x
As popular as Nutella is I am very surprised they changed their recipe. However, nothing beats home made and many of us are DIY. Thanks for coming to the party and sharing a healthy "Nutella" recipe.
I know Judi…… given the current rage against the sweet stuff, it seems insane to be adding more. Making home-made is so much nicer though anyway…. x
Phwoarrr!!! This looks marvellous, I'm off to make some. BIG THUMBS UP. xx #BrilliantBlogPosts
Awww thank Sam…. Hope you love it too! x
How shocking that the recipe has changed and especially in a time when people are more health conscious. I don't think I'd ever heard anyone say Nutella wasn't sweet enough before! I do have a weakness for it though and would love to try your recipe. Thanks for sharing with #CookOnceEatTwice
I know! It seems commercially wrong, given the current climate. I am sure it is all about cost savings…. but I would rather pay more and eat less, than have my favourite foods changed or shrunk.
Or the other hand, this recipe is SO easy, I think I will now boycott Nutella in favour of my own! xx
How absolutely delicious, it would make a great present too, in fact I would probably make it and give it all away, otherwise I'd want to eat it all the time! (I am worse than my kids when it comes to temptations like that)
Thanks Monika. It would make a perfect present, especially with Christmas coming and it's so quick to make too. But you're right, it is scarily addictive and like you, I have far less self-restraint than Miss GF! x
I second Vicki, need a jar of this!!! Love the little teacup of breadsticks soo cute!! X
Thanks Midge. The little teacup is rather special isn't it? A very lovely person sent it to me! x
This sounds great, does it have to be a nut oil or would sunflower oil work?
Sunflower oil is just fine DC. I just went for something a little 'fancier', because I had it in the larder! Just be sure to roast the nuts to get a deeper flavour! It's SO good! xx
I NEED this now!!!!
Ha ha! It's so good….. I have literally been spooning it in secret out of the jar! xx