Name: Decadent Homemade Nutella Recipe You Can Feel Good About
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 2 cups raw hazelnuts (or unsalted roasted hazelnuts); 1/2 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or almond extract); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup sweetener of choice (date sugar, agave, etc.); 1/2 cup milk of choice (can use oil (2 tbsp) for shelf-stable version)

As I stirred the velvety blend of hazelnuts and rich cocoa, the familiar aroma whisked me back to cozy mornings spent savoring Nutella on warm toast. Today, I’m excited to share my Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella Recipe, an easy, guilt-free spin on a classic favorite. This delightful spread is not only dairy-free and low-calorie but also perfect for those who crave a health-conscious twist without sacrificing taste. Imagine indulging in that sweet chocolate-hazelnut flavor, knowing it’s made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients! Whether you’re drizzling it over pancakes or enjoying it straight from the jar, this homemade wonder offers a delectable treat that everyone will love. Curious about uncovering the secrets to making this healthier version? Let’s dive in!

Why make your own Nutella?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and just a blender, making it easy for anyone to whip up a sweet treat at home.

Healthy Twist: This version is vegan and can be made sugar-free, allowing you to indulge without the guilt.

Versatile Indulgence: Perfect as a spread on toast, pancakes, or even as a frosting for your favorite desserts.

Flavorful Satisfaction: With a rich chocolate-hazelnut taste, it satisfies your cravings better than any store-bought option.

Crowd-Favorite Appeal: Bring it to your next gathering and watch everyone rave about your delicious creation—no one will guess it’s homemade and healthier!

For more unique ideas, try our Cheese Meatloaf Casserole as a comforting alternative or indulge in a classic Taco Bell Chalupa for dinner.

Homemade Nutella Ingredients

For the Nutella Base
• Hazelnuts – The star ingredient that creates a rich, nutty flavor; raw hazelnuts work best but unsalted roasted can be a good substitute.
• Cocoa Powder – Provides that beloved chocolatey richness; use unsweetened cocoa powder for the most authentic taste.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile; you can swap it for almond extract for a fun twist.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances all the flavors in your homemade Nutella; don’t skip this step!

For Sweetness
• Sweetener of Choice (1/3 cup) – Choose your favorite option for sweetness; from date sugar to agave, it’s customizable for your dietary needs.

For Creaminess
• Milk of Choice (1/2 cup) – Opt for any non-dairy milk to keep it vegan, or use oil (2 tbsp) for a shelf-stable version to keep consistency.

This Homemade Nutella recipe is about enjoying a delightful spread that feels indulgent while being healthy. Let’s create something delicious!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Roast the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread 2 cups of raw hazelnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for 6-8 minutes, until they are lightly browned and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn, as the aroma will signal when they’re close to perfection.

Step 2: Skin the Hazelnuts
Once roasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly. Place the warm hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub vigorously to remove the skins. It’s okay if some skins remain, but removing most will help achieve a smoother texture in your healthy vegan homemade Nutella.

Step 3: Blend Hazelnuts into Nut Butter
Transfer the skinned hazelnuts into a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend them on high speed for 10-20 minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides. As you blend, the nuts will first turn into a fine meal, then gradually transform into a creamy hazelnut butter. Patience is key here for that silky consistency!

Step 4: Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Once you have reached a smooth hazelnut butter, add in the cocoa powder, sweetener, salt, and vanilla extract. Blend the mixture again until fully combined, ensuring that every ingredient is well incorporated for a deliciously rich flavor in your homemade Nutella recipe.

Step 5: Adjust Creaminess and Consistency
With the base well mixed, pour in the milk of your choice, or oil if you prefer a shelf-stable option. Blend again until the mixture reaches your desired creamy texture. Decide if you want it thicker or thinner based on your preference—this step can make a big difference in how you enjoy your healthy vegan homemade Nutella!

Step 6: Store Your Delicious Creation
Once your homemade Nutella is blended to perfection, transfer it to a clean, airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks for the freshest taste, or freeze for longer storage. Enjoy spreading this chocolatey delight on toast or pancakes and delight in the knowledge that it’s made from wholesome ingredients!

What to Serve with Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella

Indulging in homemade goodness opens a world of delightful pairings to enhance your healthy treat.

Fresh Sliced Bananas: The creamy Nutella pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of bananas, creating a satisfying snack.
Whole Wheat Toast: A hearty slice of whole wheat toast offers the perfect base, adding a nutty flavor that complements your spread.
Almond Butter: For an extra protein kick, drizzle almond butter alongside Nutella—it’s a nutty dream come true!
Greek Yogurt: Spread some Nutella on top of Greek yogurt for a decadent dessert that balances creaminess and tartness.
Oatmeal: Stirring in a spoonful of Nutella into warm oatmeal transforms breakfast into a chocolate-hazelnut delight the whole family will love.
Rice Cakes: Crisp, light rice cakes allow the richness of Nutella to shine while keeping it a guilt-free snack option; add some strawberries on top for a pop of color!
Coffee or Espresso: Pairing Nutella with a warm cup of coffee or espresso highlights the cocoa flavor, making it a cozy afternoon treat.
Vegan Pancakes: Serve Nutella over fluffy vegan pancakes for a brunch that everyone will enthusiastically rave about!
Coconut Whipped Cream: This light, airy topping adds a tropical twist when dolloped on Nutella desserts or enjoyed on its own for a lighter finish.
Fresh Berries: Juicy berries are not only refreshing but bring a burst of flavor that complements the richness of your homemade Nutella perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella jars are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can roast and skin the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to cool before storing in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. The nut butter itself can be blended ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, achieving a deliciously smooth consistency. When ready to enjoy, simply mix in your desired milk or oil to reach the perfect creaminess before serving. Enjoy this homemade Nutella as a delightful spread knowing it’s prepared with wholesome ingredients, making it just as delicious while saving you valuable prep time!

Storage Tips for Homemade Nutella Recipe

Fridge: Store your homemade Nutella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This keeps it fresh and maintains its creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Nutella in small portions using freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. It can last up to 3 months—just thaw before using!

Room Temperature: If you used oil for creaminess and shelf stability, keep it in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks. Ensure the container is tightly sealed.

Reheating: If your Nutella thickens when chilled, gently stir in a splash of non-dairy milk to regain its smooth consistency. Enjoy your delicious homemade Nutella anytime!

Homemade Nutella Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic homemade Nutella, each one ready to elevate your spread experience!

Nut-Free Joy: Substitute hazelnuts with sunflower seeds for a delicious nut-free alternative that maintains creaminess. This option is perfect for those with nut allergies while still offering a delightful flavor!
Raw Chocolate Delight: Use raw cacao powder instead of cocoa for an even more nutritious version that packs an antioxidant punch. It adds a subtle bitterness that perfectly complements the sweetness, making every bite a treat!
Sugar-Free Sweetness: Swap granulated sugar for a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol. This keeps your homemade Nutella guilt-free, allowing you to indulge without thoughts of excess calories.
Flavor Booster: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder for depth and complexity. This creates layers of flavor that will surprise and delight your taste buds, taking your nutty spread to new heights.
Creamy Coconut Twist: Blend in a tablespoon of coconut cream for a tropical flair. This addition not only enhances creaminess but also introduces a hint of coconut that pairs beautifully with chocolate!
Almond Lovers: Replace hazelnuts with blanched almonds for a different nutty flavor profile. Almonds lend a delightful sweetness that’s wonderful on pancakes or blended into a smoothie.
Heat Things Up: Stir in a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick! This surprising twist brings heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate-hazelnut flavor.

If you’re looking for more tasty inspiration, you might enjoy trying out my Cheese Meatloaf Casserole or whipping up a fast classic like the Taco Bell Chalupa. Enjoy your culinary adventures!

Expert Tips for Homemade Nutella Recipe

Blend Long Enough: Make sure to blend the hazelnuts for at least 10 minutes, as this creates a creamy texture. Patience is key!
Sweetener Choice: Different sweeteners can affect consistency; liquid sweeteners may make it less spreadable. Choose granulated options for a thicker consistency.
Adjust Creaminess: Remember that adding milk will enhance creaminess, while oil will give a shelf-stable Nutella. Adjust based on your needs!
Skins Optional: Don’t stress about removing every bit of hazelnut skin. Leaving some will still yield a delicious homemade Nutella with great flavor.
Storage Savvy: If you add milk, refrigerate for 2-3 weeks. For a longer shelf-life, consider using oil to store it in the pantry.

Healthy Vegan Homemade Nutella Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe hazelnuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing hazelnuts, look for ones that are firm and free of dark spots. They should have a smooth surface and a pleasant nutty aroma. If they appear shriveled or have any mold, steer clear. Using raw hazelnuts gives the best flavor, but unsalted roasted hazelnuts can be substituted if necessary.

What are the best storage methods for homemade Nutella?
Very! If you use non-dairy milk, store your healthy vegan homemade Nutella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For a shelf-stable option, use oil instead of milk, storing it in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure it’s tightly sealed to maintain its delicious flavor!

Can I freeze homemade Nutella?
Absolutely! To freeze, scoop your detailed homemade Nutella into a freezer-safe container or an ice cube tray for smaller portions. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then gently stir in a splash of non-dairy milk if it becomes too thick after freezing.

What can I do if my Nutella is too thick or too runny?
No worries! If your Nutella turns out too thick, simply blend in a little more non-dairy milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too runny, you can add more cocoa powder or a pinch of sweetener to thicken it up. Remember, blending patience is crucial for the best texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for homemade Nutella?
Very! This healthy vegan homemade Nutella is naturally dairy-free, making it perfect for those with lactose intolerance. If you have nut allergies, it’s best to avoid it or consider alternative bases, such as sunflowers for a seed-based spread. Always check your current ingredient choices to ensure they meet your dietary needs and preferences.