Imagine opening a jar filled with silky, rich chocolate hazelnut spread that’s made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. It’s creamy, deeply chocolatey, naturally sweetened, and tastes every bit as indulgent as your favorite store-bought spread—if not better. This homemade chocolate hazelnut spread is proof that you don’t need artificial flavors or preservatives to enjoy a luxurious treat.
Made with roasted hazelnuts, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a smooth, spreadable delight that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, desserts, or even eating straight from the spoon. The natural oils from the hazelnuts create a rich, buttery texture while the cocoa powder and honey deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor.
Whether you spread it on warm toast, drizzle it over pancakes, swirl it into oatmeal, or use it as a dip for fruit, this homemade chocolate hazelnut spread is one recipe you’ll find yourself making again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This homemade spread is delicious, simple, and incredibly versatile.
You’ll love it because:
- Made with only a few ingredients
- Rich, smooth, and creamy
- Naturally sweetened
- No artificial preservatives
- Perfect for breakfast and desserts
- Easy to customize
- Great for gifting
- Better than many store-bought spreads
Every spoonful is packed with roasted hazelnut flavor and rich chocolate goodness.
Ingredients
- 2 cups roasted hazelnuts
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons raw honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- 2–4 tablespoons neutral oil (optional, for a smoother texture)
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 tablespoons melted dark chocolate
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- Pinch of cinnamon
Kitchen Tools
You’ll need:
- Food processor or high-speed blender
- Baking sheet
- Kitchen towel
- Rubber spatula
- Airtight glass jar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet.
Roast for 10–12 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 2: Remove the Skins
Transfer the warm hazelnuts to a clean kitchen towel.
Rub them together to loosen and remove most of the skins.
A few remaining skins are perfectly fine.
Step 3: Blend the Hazelnuts
Place the roasted hazelnuts into a food processor.
Blend for 5–10 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides.
The nuts will first become crumbs, then a thick paste, and finally a smooth, creamy hazelnut butter.
Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add:
- Cocoa powder
- Honey
- Vanilla extract
- Sea salt
Blend until smooth.
If the mixture seems too thick, add one tablespoon of neutral oil at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste the spread.
Add more honey for sweetness or a little extra cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
Blend once more.
Step 6: Store
Transfer the finished spread to a clean glass jar.
Seal tightly and refrigerate.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Roast the Hazelnuts
Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and brings out the rich nutty flavor.
Use a Powerful Blender
A high-speed food processor creates the smoothest texture.
Blend Patiently
The hazelnuts need several minutes before releasing their natural oils.
Sweeten to Taste
Adjust the honey or maple syrup according to your preference.
Add Chocolate
For an even richer flavor, blend in melted dark chocolate.
Delicious Variations
Dark Chocolate Version
Use melted 70% dark chocolate for a deeper cocoa flavor.
Vegan Version
Replace honey with maple syrup.
Mocha Spread
Add espresso powder for a coffee-inspired twist.
Cinnamon Chocolate Spread
Mix in a pinch of cinnamon for warm spice.
Crunchy Version
Fold in chopped roasted hazelnuts after blending.
Ways to Enjoy It
This spread is delicious on:
- Toast
- Pancakes
- Waffles
- Crepes
- Croissants
- Banana slices
- Strawberries
- Apple slices
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt
- Ice cream
- Brownies
You can even use it as a filling for cakes, cookies, and pastries.
Storage Tips
Store the spread in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Allow it to sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before spreading if it becomes firm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw hazelnuts?
Yes, but roasting them first creates a richer flavor.
Can I use another nut?
Yes. Almonds or cashews also work well, though the flavor will be different.
Why isn’t my spread smooth?
Keep blending. The hazelnuts need time to release their natural oils.
Can I freeze it?
Yes. Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Is it healthier than store-bought?
Homemade versions often contain fewer processed ingredients and allow you to control the sweetness.
Nutrition Information
Approximate per tablespoon
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Nutrition values are estimates.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread is rich, creamy, and packed with real chocolate and roasted hazelnut flavor. It’s incredibly easy to make, naturally customizable, and perfect for everything from breakfast to dessert.
Whether you spread it on warm toast, swirl it into oatmeal, drizzle it over pancakes, or simply enjoy a spoonful straight from the jar, this recipe delivers homemade goodness that’s hard to beat. Once you try it, you’ll understand why This Homemade Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Is Better Than Nutella.