If you love nut butters and want to try something new, hazelnut butter is a fantastic choice. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with a warm, nutty flavor that’s a perfect alternative to peanut butter. Plus, making it at home is surprisingly easy and rewarding. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make hazelnut butter step-by-step, with tips to get the best texture and flavor every time.
Why Make Hazelnut Butter at Home?
Store-bought hazelnut butters often contain added sugars, oils, and preservatives. When you make your own, you control exactly what goes in — just pure hazelnuts and a pinch of salt if you want. Homemade hazelnut butter is:
– Healthier and free from additives
– Fresh with a richer, natural flavor
– Versatile for use in baking, spreads, smoothies, and more
What You’ll Need
– Raw or roasted hazelnuts (about 300-500 grams)
– Optional: A pinch of salt or a little neutral oil (like olive or coconut oil) to adjust texture
– Equipment: A good food processor or high-powered blender
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Hazelnut Butter
1. Roast the Hazelnuts (Optional but Recommended)
Roasting the hazelnuts brings out their natural oils and deepens their flavor. Preheat your oven to 325-350°F (160-180°C). Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye near the end to avoid burning.
2. Remove the Skins
Once roasted, let the hazelnuts cool for about 10 minutes. Then, wrap them in a clean kitchen towel and rub vigorously to loosen and remove as much of the papery skins as possible. Don’t worry if some skins remain — a little leftover skin won’t affect the taste much and adds a rustic texture.
3. Blend the Hazelnuts
Transfer the peeled hazelnuts to your food processor or blender. Start processing on low speed. At first, the nuts will turn into crumbs, then a coarse paste, and finally, after several minutes, the natural oils will release, and the mixture will become creamy and smooth. This process can take anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes depending on your machine. Be patient and stop occasionally to scrape down the sides for even blending.
4. Adjust Texture and Flavor (Optional)
If the butter seems too thick or dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of a neutral oil like olive oil to help smooth it out. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Avoid adding liquid sweeteners like maple syrup during blending, as they can cause the mixture to seize up.
5. Store Your Hazelnut Butter
Once smooth and creamy, transfer your hazelnut butter to an airtight jar or container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Always use a clean spoon to scoop it out to keep it fresh longer.
Tips for Perfect Hazelnut Butter
– Use a high-quality food processor or blender for the smoothest texture.
– Don’t rush the blending process — the oils need time to release.
– Roasting the nuts is key for flavor but optional if you prefer raw butter.
– Removing the skins improves texture and taste but isn’t mandatory.
– Experiment with flavor add-ins like cinnamon, cocoa powder, or vanilla after blending for variety.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Hazelnut Butter
– Spread on toast or crackers for a quick snack
– Stir into oatmeal or yogurt for breakfast
– Use as a dip for fruit or veggies
– Add to smoothies for a creamy boost
– Incorporate into baking recipes like cookies and brownies
Making hazelnut butter at home is simple, fun, and yields a deliciously fresh spread that’s perfect for a variety of uses. With just one main ingredient and a little patience, you can create a creamy, flavorful nut butter that beats store-bought versions hands down. Give it a try and enjoy the rich taste of homemade hazelnut butter anytime!