Who doesn't love Nutella? The creamy, chocolate-hazelnut spread has become a staple in many households, but have you ever considered making your own at home? By using cocoa powder instead of melted chocolate, you can create a delicious homemade Nutella that is free from preservatives and artificial flavors. In this step-by-step guide, we will show you exactly how to make Nutella at home using cocoa. Let's get started!
What You'll Need:
- 1 cup of hazelnuts
- 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Step 1: Roast the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast them for about 10-12 minutes or until the skins start to crack. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely.
Step 2: Remove the Hazelnut Skins
Once the hazelnuts have cooled down, transfer them onto a clean kitchen towel. Fold the towel over the nuts and rub them vigorously to remove the skins. Don't worry if some of the skins don't come off completely; a little bit of skin won't affect the taste of your Nutella.
Step 3: Blend the Hazelnuts
Place the skinned hazelnuts in a blender or food processor and blend until they form a smooth and creamy paste. This process may take a few minutes, so be patient. You might need to scrape down the sides of the blender or processor occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Once you have achieved a smooth hazelnut paste, add the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and salt to the blender or food processor. Blend again until all the ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy and glossy.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy!
Transfer your homemade Nutella to a clean jar with an airtight lid. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. Spread it on toast, use it as a dip for fruit, or simply enjoy it with a spoon straight from the jar!
Making Nutella at home using cocoa is a fun and rewarding process. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a rich and flavorful homemade version of this beloved spread. Not only will you be able to customize the ingredients to your liking, but you'll also avoid any unnecessary additives. Enjoy the satisfaction of spreading your homemade Nutella on anything and everything!