What Is Hazelnut Butter?
Hazelnut butter is made by grinding hazelnuts, often roasted, into a creamy consistency. The plain version is a spread made only from hazelnuts; its best-known form is cocoa hazelnut spread made with added cocoa and sugar.
Hazelnut butter has a long history in Türkiye, a major hazelnut producer. The plain variety is enjoyed at breakfast and used as a recipe ingredient, while the cocoa variety is enjoyed as a sweet spread.
Hazelnut Butter Nutrition Facts
As an oil-rich nut product, plain hazelnut butter contains approximately 620 kcal of energy per 100 g, along with substantial fat (mostly unsaturated), protein, and vitamin E. Added sugar changes this profile in cocoa-sweetened varieties. Values are approximate.
How Should Hazelnut Butter Be Consumed?
Hazelnut butter is calorie-dense; cocoa-sweetened varieties in particular should be consumed in moderation. People with tree nut allergies should not consume it.
This is general information. Hazelnut butter is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment. People with tree nut allergies should be cautious.
How to Choose Hazelnut Butter
Good plain hazelnut butter is made primarily from hazelnuts, smells fresh and nutty, and is not rancid. For cocoa varieties, choose products with a high hazelnut content and a reasonable amount of added sugar; avoid bitter-tasting or stale products.
- Plain varieties should consist primarily of hazelnuts.
- They should smell fresh and nutty, not rancid.
- Cocoa varieties should have a high hazelnut content.
How to Store Hazelnut Butter
Store hazelnut butter in a sealed container in a cool, dark place; in the plain variety, oil may separate on top, so stir before use. Because oily products can turn rancid over time, choose a cool place for longer storage.
Using Hazelnut Butter in the Kitchen
Plain hazelnut butter is used as a spread on bread and in smoothies, desserts, and sauces; cocoa hazelnut spread is used on bread and crepes, and in cake fillings and desserts. Hazelnuts’ rich flavor is a classic match with cocoa and milk.
What Is the Difference Between Plain Hazelnut Butter and Cocoa Spread?
Plain hazelnut butter is a spread made only from ground hazelnuts; cocoa hazelnut spread is a sweet spread made with added cocoa, sugar, and often milk powder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you make hazelnut butter at home?
Yes. To make plain hazelnut butter, process roasted hazelnuts in a powerful food processor until they release their oil and become creamy. For cocoa spread, add cocoa, powdered sugar, and a little oil or milk powder.
Who should not consume hazelnut butter?
People who are allergic to hazelnuts or other tree nuts should not consume hazelnut butter.
Why should cocoa hazelnut spread be eaten in moderation?
Because it is high in fat and contains added sugar, it is calorie-dense; it is recommended to consume a small amount as part of a balanced diet.