In the world of spreads and sweet treats, hazelnut spread holds a special place. Its rich, nutty flavor combined with the depth of chocolate makes it a favorite among both young and old. But what if I told you that you can easily make this delicacy yourself, with ingredients you probably already have at home?
This article takes you through the process of making a homemade luxury hazelnut spread that is not only delicious but also free from unnecessary additives.
The Magic of Homemade Hazelnut Spread
Making hazelnut spread yourself has its charm. It gives you full control over the ingredients, resulting in a product that is both healthier and more flavorful than most commercial variants. Moreover, the process from roasting the hazelnuts to blending the chocolate is both relaxing and satisfying.
Top-Quality Ingredients for the Best Taste
The key to an exceptional hazelnut spread lies in the quality of the ingredients. Start with fresh, skinned hazelnuts for that authentic, nutty flavor. Combine this with high-quality dark chocolate and natural sweeteners such as honey, and you lay the foundation for an irresistible spread.
The Perfect Roasting Process
Roasting is an essential step that not only makes the hazelnuts easier to process by removing the skins but also enhances their flavor. The secret lies in finding the perfect balance between temperature and time, so the nuts become golden brown and aromatic without burning.
The Art of Blending
A powerful food processor transforms the roasted nuts and the other ingredients into a smooth, creamy paste. Gradually adding sunflower oil while the machine is running is crucial for the texture. This process, although simple, requires patience and attention to detail.
Personal Adjustments for a Unique Twist
One of the benefits of homemade hazelnut spread is the ability to adjust the recipe to your own taste. Whether you love extra chocolate, want to add a hint of vanilla, or adjust the sweetness, the choice is yours.
Storage and Use
Properly stored in a clean jar, your hazelnut spread will remain fresh in the refrigerator. Take it out half an hour before use to make it easier to spread. This spread is not only perfect on bread but also as an ingredient in various desserts and baked goods.
The Role of Sustainability
In a time when sustainability becomes increasingly important, making your own hazelnut spread offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a better world. By opting for ingredients of organic origin and local products where possible, you reduce the ecological footprint of your kitchen.
Conclusion
Making homemade luxury hazelnut spread is more than just a recipe; it's an experience that allows you to connect with your food in a way that is both personal and meaningful. The end result is not only a treat for yourself and your loved ones but also a step towards a more conscious and sustainable lifestyle.
Hazelnut Spread
| Category: | Breakfast |
| Cooking Time: | 30 min |
| Portions: |
250
|
| Kitchen: | Belgian Cuisine |
| Cost Range: | Cheap |
Ingredients:
-
130 gr Hazelnuts
-
50 gr Dark chocolate
-
75 gr Fine sugar
-
75 ml Sunflower oil
-
20 gr Cocoa powder
-
20 gr acacia honey
-
20 gr Butter
-
1 tbsp Vanilla extract
-
1 pinch Fleur de sel
Instructions:
Preparation for 250g:
Roasting the Hazelnuts:
- Spread 130g hazelnuts on a baking sheet.
- Roast them for 15 minutes in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) to enhance the flavors and make the skins easy to remove.
- Let the hazelnuts cool, then roll them between a clean tea towel to remove the skins.
Caramelizing the Sugar:
- Put 75g sugar in a saucepan and heat on medium until it caramelizes. Pay attention to the color for the desired sweetness and bitterness.
Making the Praliné:
- Add the roasted hazelnuts to the caramel, mix briefly, and spread on parchment paper to cool.
- Break the cooled hazelnut-caramel mixture into pieces and place in a food processor.
Preparing the Paste:
Grinding the Hazelnuts:
- Grind the hazelnut-caramel mixture in the food processor until it becomes a very fine praliné, about 5 minutes.
Adding Ingredients:
- Add 20g cocoa powder, a pinch of salt, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Grind for 3 minutes until the mixture is homogeneous.
Incorporating the Oil:
- While the food processor is running, slowly add 60-75ml sunflower oil in a thin stream until the desired consistency is reached. Be careful not to make the paste too thin. Stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and mix well.
Melting and Adding Chocolate:
- Melt 50g dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave and let it cool slightly. Add the melted chocolate to the hazelnut mixture and mix until fully integrated.
Finishing and Storage:
- Pour the hazelnut spread into a clean jar. Store the paste in the refrigerator to set and allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for Storage and Use:
- The hazelnut spread may harden in the refrigerator. Take the jar out half an hour before use to bring it to room temperature.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to taste for more or less sweetness.
- The paste is delicious as a bread spread or as an ingredient in desserts and baked goods.
