
Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
This luscious "Nutella maison" recipe offers a rich, velvety chocolate hazelnut spread, crafted from simple ingredients for a superior taste. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent dessert topping, it brings the beloved flavor of store-bought spread to a fresh, homemade level. While the original Nutella hails from Italy, the concept of "maison" (homemade) reflects a deeply French appreciation for artisanal quality and preparing beloved foods from scratch. This homemade version embodies a culinary tradition of elevating everyday treats with fresh ingredients and personal touch, making it a staple for French-inspired breakfasts and crêpes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups Hazelnuts
- 0.5 cup Powdered Sugar
- 0.25 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 2 4 tbsp Milk (whole or non-dairy)
- 2 oz Dark Chocolate (optional, for richer flavor)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- 2
Roast hazelnuts for 10-15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally, until fragrant and their skins begin to crack.
- 3
Remove from oven, transfer warm hazelnuts to a clean kitchen towel, and rub vigorously to remove most of the skins. Discard skins.
- 4
Place the skinned hazelnuts in a high-speed food processor or blender. Process for 5-10 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the hazelnuts transform into a smooth, creamy butter. This will take time.
- 5
Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and salt to the food processor. If using, add melted dark chocolate.
- 6
Process again until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and luxurious. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until your desired consistency is reached.
- 7
Taste and adjust sweetness or cocoa flavor if necessary.
- 8
Transfer the homemade chocolate hazelnut spread to an airtight jar.
Chef's Tips
- •Storage: Store in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. If refrigerated, it will firm up; let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving for easier spreading.
- •Substitutions: For a nut-free version, try sunflower seeds. You can also substitute part of the hazelnuts with almonds or cashews for a different flavor profile. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of powdered sugar for an unrefined sugar option.
- •For a richer flavor: Toasting the hazelnuts well is crucial. For an even deeper chocolate taste, melt 2 ounces of good quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) and add it to the food processor along with the other ingredients.
- •Fun Fact: The original Nutella was created in Italy during World War II by Pietro Ferrero, who extended scarce cocoa supplies with hazelnuts, a readily available local crop.
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