Nutella, the iconic hazelnut and chocolate spread, is a favorite treat enjoyed in kitchens around the globe. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it irresistible, whether spread on toast, drizzled over pancakes, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. But did you know you can create a healthier and even tastier version right at home? By using the Thermomix, preparing homemade Nutella becomes an effortless and rewarding experience. This versatile kitchen companion allows you to control every aspect of the recipe, from selecting high-quality hazelnuts to adjusting the sweetness and richness to suit your taste. The Thermomix expertly roasts and blends the nuts into a silky-smooth paste, while melting and combining the chocolate with precision. The result is a customizable spread free from artificial additives or excessive sugars, giving you a nutritious alternative without sacrificing the indulgent flavor you love. Homemade Nutella with the Thermomix is truly a delicious upgrade!
Visit this Healthy Thermomix Recipes Guide to discover more creative and delicious spreads for your pantry.
Why Make Homemade Nutella?
Homemade Nutella gives you the freedom to skip artificial additives, reduce or adjust the sugar content, and experiment with flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or even a pinch of sea salt. It’s a healthier alternative that lets you enjoy all the creamy, chocolatey goodness without the guilt. Beyond its benefits, making Nutella at home is a fun and rewarding DIY project, perfect for food enthusiasts or families looking to create something delicious together. With each spoonful, you’ll savor not only the rich taste but also the satisfaction of crafting your own version of this iconic spread.
Visit Epicurious to learn more about crafting your own pantry essentials.
Why Use Thermomix for Nutella?
The Thermomix is the ultimate tool for making Nutella at home, transforming a multi-step process into a seamless and enjoyable experience. From roasting hazelnuts to blending them into a rich, creamy spread, the Thermomix handles each task with precision and ease. Its controlled heat ensures perfectly roasted hazelnuts, enhancing their natural flavor, while its powerful motor and precise settings create a silky-smooth consistency that rivals store-bought options. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, the Thermomix makes crafting homemade Nutella simple, efficient, and delicious.
Benefits of Using Thermomix:
- Effortless Blending: Achieve a silky texture without the need for additional equipment.
- Precise Temperature Control: Melt chocolate evenly without burning.
- Time-Saving: Complete the process in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
Visit this Thermomix Accessories Guide to explore tools that make spreading easier.
Ingredients for Homemade Nutella
- 200g hazelnuts
- 150g dark chocolate (or milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor)
- 100g powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 50ml vegetable oil (e.g., sunflower or coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Optional additions:
- 1 tablespoon milk powder for extra creaminess
- A dash of espresso powder for a mocha twist
How to Make Homemade Nutella with Thermomix
Roasting the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the hazelnuts evenly on a baking tray and roast them for about 10 minutes, or until they become golden and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-roasting. Once they’re done, let the hazelnuts cool slightly for a few minutes. While still warm, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel and gently rub them together to remove most of the skins. Don’t worry if a few skins remain; they won’t affect the flavor. This step enhances the nutty aroma and ensures a smoother texture for your homemade Nutella.
Visit this Weight Watchers Recipes Thermomix for healthier nut-based spreads.
Grinding the Hazelnuts
Place the roasted hazelnuts into the Thermomix bowl. Blend on Speed 6 for 30 seconds, pausing to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Continue blending until the hazelnuts transform into a smooth, creamy paste. This process releases the natural oils in the nuts, creating the perfect base for your homemade Nutella. If necessary, blend for a few additional seconds to achieve the desired consistency.
Melting the Chocolate
Break the chocolate into small pieces and add them to the hazelnut paste in the Thermomix bowl. Set the temperature to 50°C and melt the chocolate on Speed 2 for 5 minutes, allowing it to combine seamlessly with the hazelnut paste. Check halfway through to ensure the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated. Once the chocolate has melted completely, you’ll have a rich, creamy base ready for the next steps of your homemade Nutella.
Combining the Ingredients
Add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the hazelnut and chocolate mixture in the Thermomix bowl. Blend on Speed 4 for 1 minute, pausing to scrape down the sides if necessary, until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness or salt level according to your preference. If a thinner consistency is desired, add a small amount of vegetable oil and blend again until perfect. Your homemade Nutella is now ready to enjoy!
Storing the Nutella
Carefully transfer the freshly made Nutella into a clean, airtight jar, using a spatula to scrape every bit of the spread from the Thermomix bowl. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature before sealing the jar to prevent condensation. Store your homemade Nutella in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Enjoy it as a spread, dip, or ingredient in your favorite recipes!
Visit this Thermomix Recipe Community for storage tips and creative uses for homemade spreads.
Customizing Your Nutella
1. Healthier Nutella
Replace powdered sugar with honey, maple syrup, or a natural sweetener like stevia.
2. Vegan Nutella
Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil for a completely vegan version.
3. Nutty Variations
Swap hazelnuts with almonds, cashews, or a mix of nuts for a unique flavor profile.
Visit BBC Good Food for additional ideas on customizing spreads to suit dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
On Toast
Spread Nutella on warm toast or bagels for a quick breakfast or snack.
In Desserts
Use it as a filling for crepes, pancakes, or pastries like croissants and Danish rolls.
As a Dip
Pair it with fresh fruit, pretzels, or breadsticks for an easy and delicious treat.
Visit this Banana Smoothie Thermomix Recipe for a refreshing pairing with Nutella-based treats.
Tips for Perfect Nutella
- Use Fresh Nuts: Fresh hazelnuts enhance the flavor and texture of the spread.
- Blend Gradually: Start blending at a lower speed to avoid overheating the ingredients.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste and tweak the sweetness or chocolate intensity to your preference.
Storing and Reheating Homemade Nutella
Refrigeration:
If your home is warm, store Nutella in the refrigerator to prevent melting. Allow it to come to room temperature before using for easier spreading.
Freezing:
Freeze Nutella in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before using.
Visit King Arthur Baking for expert tips on storing homemade spreads.
Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Nutella
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Hazelnuts are a source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Lower in Sugar: Control the amount of sugar to make a healthier spread.
- Packed with Antioxidants: Dark chocolate and cocoa powder provide antioxidants that support overall health.
Visit this Healthy Porridge Bowl Thermomix Recipe for another nutrient-rich breakfast idea.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-ground hazelnuts?
While pre-roasted hazelnuts can save time, using freshly roasted hazelnuts will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your homemade Nutella. Roasting the nuts yourself allows you to control the level of roast, bringing out their natural sweetness and nutty aroma, which are key to achieving a rich and authentic taste. Freshly roasted hazelnuts also create a smoother, creamier base for the spread, making the extra step well worth the effort.
2. Can I skip the cocoa powder?
Cocoa powder enhances the richness and depth of flavor in your homemade Nutella, giving it a more intense chocolatey taste. However, if you’re using high-quality chocolate with a robust flavor profile, you can skip the cocoa powder entirely. The choice allows you to customize the spread based on your preferences and the ingredients you have on hand.
3. Can I make Nutella sugar-free?
Absolutely! Use sugar substitutes like erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit sweetener.
4. How do I prevent Nutella from becoming grainy?
Blend thoroughly and use powdered sugar for a smooth consistency.
Visit this Thermomix Recipe Community for more FAQs and troubleshooting tips.
Conclusion
Making Nutella at home with the Thermomix is a simple and satisfying way to enjoy a healthier, personalized version of this beloved hazelnut and chocolate spread. The process is quick and effortless, allowing you to roast and blend hazelnuts to perfection while melting and combining chocolate with precision for a silky-smooth texture. By using high-quality ingredients, you can control the sweetness, eliminate additives, and even experiment with flavors like vanilla, sea salt, or alternative sweeteners. Whether spread on toast, swirled into desserts, or used as a dip for fruit, homemade Nutella offers endless culinary possibilities. The Thermomix not only ensures perfect consistency but also makes the experience fun and rewarding. Create your own twist on this iconic treat and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something delicious and wholesome in your own kitchen.
Visit this Thermomix Accessories Guide to enhance your spread-making experience and start crafting your perfect homemade Nutella today!