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Cacao and Hazelnut Spread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 65 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 1.5 cups
  • Category: Spread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rich and creamy cacao and hazelnut spread that combines the deep flavors of roasted hazelnuts with raw cacao powder and natural sweetness from maple syrup. Perfect as a delightful topping for toasted fruit loaf or your favorite bread.


Ingredients

Spread Ingredients

  • 2 cups hazelnuts
  • 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
  • 2/3 cup maple syrup

Serving

  • Sliced toasted fruit loaf (for serving)


Instructions

  1. Roast Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking tray and roast for 8-10 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant.
  2. Remove Skins: Place the roasted hazelnuts on a clean tea towel. Rub them vigorously to remove as much of the skins as possible, which will improve texture and flavor.
  3. Process Nuts and Cacao: Transfer the warm hazelnuts to a food processor. Add the raw cacao powder and process for 4-6 minutes, until the nuts are ground into a smooth paste.
  4. Add Sweetener: While the processor is running, slowly pour in the maple syrup, continuing to blend until well combined and the spread is smooth.
  5. Cool and Serve: Spoon the spread into a bowl and allow it to cool to room temperature. Serve generously on toasted fruit loaf slices for a delicious treat.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use fresh, high-quality raw cacao powder and pure maple syrup.
  • Removing the hazelnut skins helps prevent bitterness and creates a smoother spread.
  • Store the spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • You can substitute fruit loaf with other breads like brioche, baguette, or crackers according to preference.
  • For a nuttier texture, pulse less in the food processor; for a creamier texture, blend longer.