Homemade Copycat Nutella Recipe: Deliciously Authentic!

Nutella, that iconic hazelnut and chocolate spread, holds a special place in the hearts (and pantries) of many. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a versatile treat, perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. However, the cost of commercially produced Nutella can add up, and some may be concerned about the ingredients. The good news? You can easily create a homemade version that rivals the original in taste and quality, using simple ingredients and minimal effort. This copycat Nutella recipe is not only delicious but also allows you to customize the sweetness and intensity of the hazelnut and chocolate flavors to your preference. Let’s dive into creating this delectable spread!

Why Make Homemade Nutella?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s explore the benefits of making your own Nutella:

* **Cost-Effective:** Homemade Nutella can be significantly cheaper than store-bought, especially if you buy hazelnuts in bulk.
* **Ingredient Control:** You have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to choose high-quality options and avoid unwanted additives or preservatives.
* **Customizable Flavor:** Tailor the sweetness, hazelnut intensity, and chocolate richness to your liking.
* **Freshness:** Homemade Nutella is guaranteed to be fresh and vibrant in flavor.
* **Fun and Rewarding:** The process of making your own Nutella is surprisingly simple and satisfying.

Ingredients for Homemade Copycat Nutella

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own delicious copycat Nutella:

* **Hazelnuts:** 2 cups (about 250g) raw, skin-on hazelnuts
* **Powdered Sugar:** ½ cup (about 60g) powdered sugar (also known as confectioners’ sugar or icing sugar)
* **Cocoa Powder:** ¼ cup (about 25g) unsweetened cocoa powder
* **Vegetable Oil:** 2-3 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil (such as sunflower, canola, or grapeseed oil)
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
* **Salt:** ¼ teaspoon salt
* **Optional Ingredients:**
* **Chocolate:** 2-4 ounces (55-115g) dark chocolate or milk chocolate, melted (for a richer chocolate flavor)
* **Hazelnut Oil:** 1-2 teaspoons hazelnut oil (to enhance the hazelnut flavor)
* **Espresso Powder:** ½ teaspoon espresso powder (to deepen the chocolate flavor)
* **Milk Powder:** 1-2 tablespoons milk powder (for a creamier texture)

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Baking Sheet:** For roasting the hazelnuts.
* **Clean Kitchen Towel:** For removing the hazelnut skins.
* **Food Processor:** A high-powered food processor is essential for creating a smooth and creamy texture. A blender may work, but it may require more patience and scraping down the sides.
* **Glass Jars or Containers:** For storing your homemade Nutella.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Homemade Copycat Nutella

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own irresistible copycat Nutella:

Step 1: Roast the Hazelnuts

1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Adjust the rack to the middle position.
2. **Spread Hazelnuts:** Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded.
3. **Roast:** Roast the hazelnuts for 12-15 minutes, or until the skins begin to crack and the hazelnuts are fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
4. **Cool Slightly:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the hazelnuts cool slightly for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle.

Step 2: Remove the Hazelnut Skins

1. **Wrap in Towel:** Place the slightly cooled hazelnuts in the center of a clean kitchen towel.
2. **Rub Vigorously:** Fold the towel over the hazelnuts and rub them vigorously against each other. This friction will help to remove the skins. Continue rubbing for a minute or two until most of the skins have been removed. Don’t worry if some skins remain; it’s difficult to remove them all completely.
3. **Separate Hazelnuts:** Remove the hazelnuts from the towel and pick out any loose skins. Discard the skins.

Step 3: Process the Hazelnuts

1. **Add to Food Processor:** Place the roasted and skinned hazelnuts into the bowl of your food processor.
2. **Process Until Smooth:** Process the hazelnuts continuously for several minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Initially, the hazelnuts will turn into a coarse meal. Continue processing, and they will eventually release their oils and transform into a smooth, buttery paste. This process can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes, or even longer depending on the power of your food processor. Be patient; the end result is worth it!
3. **Check Consistency:** The hazelnut butter should be smooth and creamy. If it seems too dry, continue processing for a bit longer.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. **Add Powdered Sugar:** Add the powdered sugar to the food processor.
2. **Add Cocoa Powder:** Add the unsweetened cocoa powder.
3. **Add Oil:** Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. You can add an additional tablespoon if needed to achieve a smoother consistency.
4. **Add Vanilla Extract:** Add the vanilla extract.
5. **Add Salt:** Add the salt.
6. **Optional Ingredients (if using):** If you’re using melted chocolate, hazelnut oil, espresso powder, or milk powder, add them now.

Step 5: Process Again

1. **Process Until Combined:** Process all the ingredients together for another 2-3 minutes, or until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
2. **Check Flavor and Consistency:** Taste the Nutella and adjust the flavor as desired. If it’s not sweet enough, add a bit more powdered sugar. If you want a richer chocolate flavor, add a little more cocoa powder or melted chocolate. If it’s too thick, add a bit more vegetable oil, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Store the Homemade Nutella

1. **Transfer to Jar:** Transfer the homemade Nutella to clean glass jars or airtight containers.
2. **Store at Room Temperature:** Store the Nutella at room temperature. It should keep for 2-3 weeks. The oil may separate over time, which is normal. Simply stir it back in before using.
3. **Refrigeration (Optional):** Refrigeration will extend the shelf life, but it will also make the Nutella harder and less spreadable. If you choose to refrigerate it, allow it to come to room temperature before using.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Homemade Nutella

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the taste of your homemade Nutella. Use good-quality hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
* **Roast Hazelnuts Evenly:** Roasting the hazelnuts evenly is crucial for developing their flavor and making them easier to peel. Spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet and keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
* **Be Patient with the Food Processor:** Transforming the hazelnuts into a smooth butter can take time. Be patient and continue processing until you achieve the desired consistency.
* **Adjust Sweetness and Flavor:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with the sweetness and flavor of your Nutella. Adjust the amount of powdered sugar, cocoa powder, or other ingredients to your liking.
* **Warm the Jar:** For easier spreading, especially if you’ve stored the Nutella in the refrigerator, warm the jar slightly in a bowl of warm water before using.
* **Add a Pinch of Cinnamon:** For a warm and comforting flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the Nutella.
* **Blend with Avocado:** For a healthier twist, blend a small amount of avocado into the Nutella for added creaminess and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made your own delicious homemade Nutella, here are some ways to enjoy it:

* **Spread on Toast or Crackers:** A classic and simple way to enjoy Nutella.
* **Swirl into Yogurt or Oatmeal:** Add a spoonful of Nutella to your morning yogurt or oatmeal for a decadent treat.
* **Use as a Dip for Fruit:** Dip apple slices, banana pieces, or strawberries into Nutella for a sweet and satisfying snack.
* **Make Nutella Sandwiches:** Create delicious Nutella sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch or snack.
* **Add to Desserts:** Use Nutella as a filling for crepes, pancakes, or waffles. You can also incorporate it into brownies, cookies, or cakes.
* **Top Ice Cream:** Drizzle Nutella over your favorite ice cream for a rich and flavorful topping.
* **Blend into Smoothies:** Add a spoonful of Nutella to your smoothies for a creamy and indulgent treat.
* **Make Nutella Hot Chocolate:** Stir a spoonful of Nutella into hot milk for a decadent and comforting hot chocolate.

Variations on the Recipe

* **Vegan Nutella:** Substitute the powdered sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup. Omit the milk powder or use a vegan milk powder alternative. Ensure that any chocolate you use is also vegan.
* **Sugar-Free Nutella:** Use a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or stevia in place of the powdered sugar. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness level.
* **Spicy Nutella:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a touch of heat.
* **White Chocolate Nutella:** Substitute the cocoa powder with melted white chocolate.
* **Other Nut Butters:** Experiment with other nut butters, such as almond butter or cashew butter, in place of the hazelnut butter for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

* **Nutella is too thick:** Add more vegetable oil, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
* **Nutella is too thin:** Add a tablespoon of milk powder or a small amount of melted chocolate to thicken it up.
* **Nutella is not sweet enough:** Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired sweetness level.
* **Nutella is grainy:** This is usually caused by the sugar not being fully dissolved. Continue processing the mixture for a few more minutes. If the graininess persists, you can try warming the Nutella slightly in the microwave and then processing it again.
* **Hazelnuts are not turning into butter:** This can happen if your food processor is not powerful enough or if the hazelnuts are not roasted properly. Make sure your hazelnuts are evenly roasted and continue processing for a longer period of time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. You may also need to add a bit more vegetable oil to help the process.

Conclusion

Making your own copycat Nutella is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a delicious and customizable treat at a fraction of the cost of store-bought versions. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a spread that’s perfect for spreading, dipping, swirling, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your food processor, and get ready to indulge in the creamy, hazelnutty goodness of homemade Nutella! This recipe is a game-changer for breakfast, snacks, and desserts alike, and once you try it, you may never go back to store-bought Nutella again. Enjoy the process, experiment with different flavors, and savor the delicious results!