Nutella, with its perfect blend of chocolate and hazelnut, has become a beloved spread all over the world. Whether dolloped on toast, used as a filling for pastries, or devoured straight from the jar, the creamy goodness of Nutella is hard to resist. While store-bought Nutella may be convenient, making your own homemade version allows you to customize the ingredients and create a healthier alternative. Here’s a simple recipe to make delicious homemade Nutella in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of roasted hazelnuts
– 1 cup of powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 cup of milk (adjustable for desired consistency)
Instructions:
1. Roast the hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the skin starts to crack and turn slightly dark. Make sure to stir the hazelnuts occasionally during the roasting process to ensure even browning.
2. Remove the skins: Once the hazelnuts are roasted, transfer them onto a clean kitchen towel. Fold the towel over the nuts and rub them vigorously to remove as much skin as possible. Don’t worry if there are still some stubborn skins left.
3. Blend the hazelnuts: Place the roasted hazelnuts in a food processor or a high-speed blender. Process them for a few minutes until they turn into a smooth and creamy paste, similar to peanut butter.
4. Add the remaining ingredients: Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and salt to the hazelnut paste. Blend everything together until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the processor or blender as necessary.
5. Adjust the consistency: Gradually add milk to the mixture, starting with a small amount. Blend until the desired consistency is achieved. You can add more milk if you prefer a runnier Nutella or less if you want a thicker texture.
6. Taste and adjust: Give your homemade Nutella a taste and adjust the sweetness or cocoa flavor according to your preference by adding more powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
7. Store and enjoy: Transfer the Nutella into a clean, airtight jar. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, just like the store-bought version. However, if you prefer a longer shelf life, it is recommended to store it in the refrigerator, where it can stay good for up to a month.
Now that you have your homemade Nutella, the possibilities are endless. Spread it on your morning toast, use it as a dip for fresh fruits, incorporate it into desserts, or simply satisfy your sweet tooth with a spoonful straight from the jar. The best part is, you know exactly what goes into your homemade Nutella, making it a healthier alternative without any unnecessary additives or preservatives.
So, put on your apron, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the chocolaty, nutty goodness of homemade Nutella. It’s so good; you might never go back to the store-bought version again!