Creamy Vegan Nutella Recipe – A Classic Chocolate Spread

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Finding the perfect Homemade Vegan Nutella Recipe can feel like a quest for the holy grail for those of us embracing a plant-based lifestyle. While delicious, the traditional chocolate hazelnut spread is a no-go due to its dairy content.

I remember the frustration of scanning ingredient lists in grocery aisles only to put the jar back on the shelf. That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands.

I embarked on a culinary journey to create a vegan version of this beloved spread. The result? A decadent, creamy, and utterly satisfying spread that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.

This homemade recipe is not just a delightful treat; it’s a testament that you can enjoy all your favorite flavors in a plant-based form with a little creativity.

What Is Vegan Nutella? 

Vegan Nutella is a plant-based alternative to the traditional chocolate hazelnut spread, made without animal products.

It substitutes dairy ingredients with vegan-friendly options like plant-based milk, oils, and sweeteners, ensuring it’s suitable for vegans, lactose-intolerant individuals, and anyone looking to reduce animal products in their diet.

This version maintains the rich, creamy texture and the deep, chocolatey flavor of its non-vegan counterpart, making it a perfect spread for toast, pancakes, or as a filling for baked goods. Vegan Nutella offers a guilt-free way to enjoy a beloved treat, aligning with ethical and dietary preferences.

Fact– Research shows that incorporating hazelnuts into your diet can improve heart health due to their high levels of antioxidants and healthy fats.

Recipe Directions 

• Begin by placing all the ingredients—raw hazelnuts, cocoa powder, maple syrup, plant-based milk or water, nut butter, and a pinch of salt—into a medium-sized bowl.
• Using a whisk, stir the mixture vigorously until everything is thoroughly combined and the texture becomes smooth and creamy. The key here is to ensure no lumps remain and the mixture achieves a uniform consistency.
• Taste the vegan Nutella. At this point, you can adjust the sweetness according to your preference. If you desire a sweeter spread, feel free to add a bit more maple syrup. Stir well after each addition to evenly distribute the sweetness.
• You can adjust the texture based on your preference. Add a little more nut butter and cocoa powder for a thicker cream. Stir well after each addition to ensure a uniform consistency. If you prefer a thinner chocolate spread, gradually add more plant-based milk or water, mixing thoroughly until you reach the desired consistency.
• Once satisfied with the taste and texture, allow the Vegan Nutella to rest for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period helps the flavors meld together and the texture to settle, enhancing the overall taste.
• Your Vegan Nutella is now ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, drizzle over pancakes, or use it as a dip for fresh fruit. The homemade spread is delicious and customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Chocolate Orange Vegan Nutella: Add the zest of one orange to the mixture for a citrusy twist.
• Coffee-Infused: Stir in a teaspoon of instant coffee powder for a mocha flavor.
• Spiced Nutella: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract for warmth and depth.
• Salted Caramel: Mix in a tablespoon of vegan caramel sauce and a generous pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel version.

Add-Ons

• Extra Nuts: Add chopped hazelnuts or almonds into the finished spread for added crunch.
• Protein Boost: Mix your favorite plant-based protein powder in a scoop for a protein-rich variant.
• Superfood Infusion: For a nutritional boost, stir in a teaspoon of chia seeds, hemp seeds, or flaxseed meal.

Toppings

• Fruit: Top your Vegan Nutella spread on toast with slices of banana, strawberries, or raspberries for added sweetness and a fresh contrast.
• Coconut: Sprinkle shredded coconut on your spread for a tropical flair and added texture.
• Granola or Seeds: Add a crunchy element with a sprinkle of granola, pumpkin, or sunflower seeds.
• Drizzle: For an extra decadent treat, drizzle additional maple syrup, vegan chocolate sauce, or even a light sprinkle of sea salt over the spread.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Mushrooms for Meat: Portobello or button mushrooms offer a meaty texture, perfect for burgers or stews.
• Cauliflower for Chicken: Cauliflower wings are a delicious, crunchy alternative to chicken wings.
• Jackfruit for Pulled Pork: Young green jackfruit has a texture akin to pulled pork when cooked and seasoned.
• Lentils for Ground Beef: Cooked lentils work well in tacos, spaghetti bolognese, or lasagna.
• Zucchini for Noodles: Spiralized zucchini makes a low-carb, nutritious pasta substitute.
• Butternut Squash for Cheese: Pureed butternut squash offers a creamy vegan mac ‘n’ cheese base.
• Eggplant for Fish: Sliced and marinated eggplant can mimic the texture and flavor of fish in vegan sushi.

Quick Tip – Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to your plant-based milk for a richer flavor in vegan baking. It creates a buttermilk-like effect, enhancing taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Platter Sliced apples, bananas, strawberries, and pears offer a refreshing and healthy contrast.
• Vegan Pancakes or Waffles A classic choice, perfect for a decadent breakfast or brunch.
• Homemade Granola Bars Crunchy and nutritious, they add a satisfying texture.
• Rice Cakes Rice cakes provide a crisp base for a lighter option.
• Vegan Scones Warm and fluffy, these are ideal for a cozy afternoon tea.
• Pita Chips or Pretzels For those who love a sweet and salty combination.
• Vegan Banana Bread Sliced and toasted, it’s a comforting and filling option.
• Vegan Marshmallows A fun and indulgent topping for a more dessert-like treat.

How To Serve?

• On Toast: Spread it generously on your favorite vegan bread or bagel for a classic treat.
• With Fruit: For a healthy snack, use it as a dip for fresh fruit slices like apples, bananas, and strawberries.
• In Smoothies: Add a tablespoon to your smoothie for a chocolate hazelnut twist.
• As a Pancake or Waffle Topping: Drizzle it over vegan pancakes or waffles with fresh berries.
• In Baked Goods: For a decadent flavor, swirl it into brownies, muffins, or banana bread batter before baking.
• As a Dessert Filling: Use it to fill vegan crepes or as a layer in parfaits.
• With Oatmeal or Porridge: Stir a spoonful into your morning oats for a sweet start to the day.
• As a Sandwich Spread, Pair it with peanut butter or banana slices between bread for a delicious sandwich.

Quick Tip -To enhance the nutty flavor of Vegan Nutella, lightly toast the hazelnuts before blending. This step adds depth and richness to the spread.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store your vegan Nutella in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It lasts up to 2 weeks.
• Room Temperature: For a softer consistency, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
• Stir Well: Ingredients may separate slightly over time. Stir well before each use to maintain a creamy texture.
• Make Ahead: Vegan Nutella is perfect for preparing in advance. Making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing its richness and depth.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Fact -The origin of Nutella dates back to World War II when cocoa was scarce. An Italian pastry maker mixed hazelnuts with chocolate to extend his cocoa supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Vegan Nutella Without A Food Processor?

You can make Vegan Nutella without a food processor, though the texture might be slightly less smooth. A high-powered blender can be a good alternative. If you don’t have either, consider using a pre-ground hazelnut meal and whisking all ingredients vigorously by hand, although this method may produce a coarser texture.

How Long Does Homemade Vegan Nutella Last?

Homemade vegan Nutella can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The freshness of your ingredients and how clean the storage container is can also affect its shelf life. Always use a clean spoon to help prevent spoilage.

Is Vegan Nutella Healthy?

Vegan Nutella is a healthier alternative to traditional Nutella, as it uses natural sweeteners and contains no dairy. However, due to its sugar and fat content, it is still a treat that should be consumed in moderation. Opting for natural, unprocessed ingredients can enhance its nutritional profile.

Can I Freeze Vegan Nutella?

Yes, Vegan Nutella can be frozen for up to 3 months. Store it in a freezer-safe, airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using. Remember that freezing may slightly alter the texture, but stirring it well after thawing should restore its creamy consistency.

How Can I Use Vegan Nutella, Apart From Spreading It On Bread?

Vegan Nutella is incredibly versatile. Here are some creative ways to use it:

• As a dip for fresh fruit or pretzels.
• Mixed into oatmeal or vegan yogurt for added flavor.
• As a filling or topping for cakes, cupcakes, and other baked goods.
• Swirled into smoothies or coffee for a chocolate hazelnut twist.
• Used in vegan dessert recipes like mousses, parfaits, or ice creams.