Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Recipe : Indulge in Guilt-Free Chocolate Heaven

Introduction

Do you ever find yourself craving a rich, creamy chocolate spread to slather on toast or dip your favorite fruits into, only to be disappointed by the sugar-laden, palm oil-filled varieties found on supermarket shelves? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. But what if we told you that you can make your own delicious, sugar-free Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut spread right at home in just five minutes?

That’s right, with this Vegan chocolate hazelnut spread recipe, you can indulge in a melty, chocolatey treat without the guilt of excess sugar or unhealthy oils. In fact, by making your own spread, you have complete control over the ingredients and can ensure that you’re putting only the best, most nutritious components into your body.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make your vegan hazelnut spread at home, along with discussing the benefits of homemade spreads and the story behind the ingredients used in the recipe.

So grab your blender and some hazelnuts, and let’s get started on this sweet, healthy journey!

The Nutty Tale of Hazelnuts: A Journey Through Time and Cuisine

For many of us, chocolate spreads have a nostalgic value that dates back to our childhood. Do you remember the smell of fresh bread being toasted in the morning, paired with a generous spread of chocolatey goodness? Or how about those after-school snacks where a jar of chocolate spread and a spoon were all you needed to satisfy your sweet tooth?

These memories are just one of the many reasons why making your hazelnut spread at home is such a special experience.

History

Let’s not forget about the star ingredient in this recipe – hazelnuts!

These small yet mighty nuts have been enjoyed for centuries and have a rich history in cuisine around the world.

The famous Turkish dessert, baklava, is traditionally made with layers of phyllo dough, honey, and a generous helping of chopped hazelnuts.

In Italy, hazelnuts are a key ingredient in many traditional desserts, such as torta di nocciole and gianduja, a chocolate-hazelnut spread that originated in the Piedmont region. It’s no surprise that Ferrero, the makers of Nutella, is also based in the Piedmont region of Italy.

Hazelnuts are not just limited to sweet treats, however. In fact, they are a popular ingredient in savory dishes as well. In the Middle East, for example, hazelnuts are often used in pilafs and other rice dishes.

And let’s not forget about the classic French sauce, beurre noisette, which is made by heating butter until it turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma reminiscent of hazelnuts.

But the benefits of hazelnuts go beyond just their delicious taste. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, copper, and magnesium. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. (More on this in the next section.)

Healthy Fats: Why Coconut Oil is the Better Choice?

Coconut oil is an important ingredient in vegan hazelnut spread recipes, as it not only adds a rich flavor but also helps achieve the perfect texture. One of the benefits of using coconut oil in the recipe is that when the spread is chilled in the fridge, it becomes thick and has a smooth, creamy consistency that’s perfect for spreading on bread or toast.

This unique feature of coconut oil is due to its high content of saturated fats. Unlike other oils, which can become runny or separate when chilled, coconut oil solidifies and helps maintain the desired texture of the spread. So not only is coconut oil a healthier alternative to other oils, but it also helps achieve that signature Nutella consistency that everyone loves.

Erithritol Or Sugar?

While the recipe for this vegan hazelnut spread can be made with sugar, we’ve opted to use erithritol instead. Erithritol is a natural sweetener that is extracted from fruits and vegetables, and has become increasingly popular as a sugar substitute due to its low calorie content and low impact on blood sugar levels.

Unlike other sugar substitutes, erithritol does not have a bitter aftertaste, making it an excellent choice for this recipe. By using erithritol instead of sugar, you can enjoy the same great taste of a chocolatey spread without any of the guilt. Plus, since it’s a natural sweetener, it’s a healthier choice for those who are looking to reduce their sugar intake.

By using natural ingredients like coconut oil instead of palm oil and erythritol substitutes for sugar, you can create a delicious spread. You won’t have to worry about hidden sugars or additives – just pure, simple ingredients that will nourish your body from within.

With this recipe in hand, take control of the contents within your nut butter and enjoy!

Read more about the Benefits of Coconut Oil

Read more about the Benefits of erythritol

So next time you make a batch of homemade hazelnut spread, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and nostalgic value of this beloved ingredient. And don’t forget to savor every bite!

Is Nutella vegan?

Although cocoa and hazelnuts, the main ingredients in Nutella, are vegan, the spread itself is not vegan because it contains skimmed milk along with ingredients like palm oil and sugar. As milk is derived from cows, it is a product of animal agriculture and is not considered vegan.

Hazelnuts and Their Health Benefits

When it comes to healthy snacking, hazelnuts are a delicious and nutritious choice. Here are some of the reasons why:

• Rich in nutrients

Hazelnuts are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and copper. These nutrients play important roles in maintaining a healthy immune system, strong bones, and healthy blood pressure levels.

• Heart-healthy

Hazelnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. These types of fats have been shown to improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Hazelnuts also contain antioxidants that can help to protect your heart from damage.

• Good for your brain

The vitamin E found in hazelnuts is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect your brain cells from damage. Studies have shown that consuming vitamin E-rich foods like hazelnuts can help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.

• Promotes weight loss

Despite their high-calorie content, hazelnuts can actually be helpful for weight loss. The fiber and protein found in hazelnuts can help to keep you feeling full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

• Ideal for vegans

Hazelnuts are a great source of plant-based protein and are a staple in many vegan diets. Using hazelnuts in recipes like our Vegan Hazelnut Spread can help to ensure that you are getting all of the essential nutrients your body needs on a plant-based diet.

So, if you’re looking for a healthy and delicious snack, look no further than hazelnuts!

Making Your Own Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready to indulge in a healthier and homemade hazelnut spread with these easy steps.

Ending on a Sweet Note: Enjoy Your Homemade Vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Today!

So, there you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for homemade vegan hazelnut spread that’s free from refined sugar and loaded with nutritious ingredients. By making your own spread at home, you can enjoy the indulgence of chocolate without the guilt of consuming unhealthy, processed ingredients.

Homemade hazelnut spread is not only a healthier choice, but also provides room for you to be creative and explore flavor combinations that suit your taste. Try adding different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in some shredded coconut or chopped nuts for added crunch. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you for your creativity!

And let’s not forget about the versatility of this spread. While it’s perfect for slathering on toast or crackers, it can also be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal, or even as a filling for cakes and cookies. The sky’s the limit when it comes to using this delicious spread in your cooking and baking.