FreshnCrunchy

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hazelnuts

Homemade "Raw" Nutella Spread

Spreads, SnacksLina Liwag3 Comments
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I don't know about you but I love Nutella!  There is one brand  that really stands out there  but it's not available in Toronto... so this has become one of my DIY projects.  The first time I made this, I brought it to work so it's been tested by the ladies at my team and a few managers on the floor.  They all gave it a thumbs up so I am excited to now share it.

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Some fun facts about hazelnuts: they are also called filberts and are a good source of Vitamin E, rich in dietary fiber, B Vitamins and folate  They also contain minerals like magnesium, phosphorous, potassium,  calcium, zinc, copper, iron, manganese and selenium. Great item to try unless you are allergic to it. 

Most nutella recipes call for the hazelnuts to be roasted.  However, the raw version is just as good or even better.  The prep time is also short...perfect for working people like you and me.   

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Homemade  "Raw" Nutella Spread
 Ingredients (Preferably Organic) 
1 cup hazelnuts
3  1/2 Tbsp. raw cacao powder
3 dates, pitted and chopped 
3 Tbsp. coconut oil, melted  (I used this brand)
1/2 tsp. vanilla powder
1/8 tsp. Himalayan crystal salt or Celtic sea salt
1/4 c. filtered water (or more if you desire a thinner consistency)

Method:  
1.   Measure the coconut oil needed and place it in a small bowl.   Boil water in a pan then place the bowl into the boiled water and wait for it to melt. 
2. In a high speed blender, food processor or personal blender (I used my Nutribullet), grind the hazelnuts until they turn into a powder.
3. Add the rest of the ingredients and process until the mixture turns into a spread-like consistency which may take 5 minutes or so.  Add a bit more water if you prefer the mixture thinner.

Suggestions:   
You may also substitute the dates with coconut nectar...start with 3 Tbsp. and increase it according to your taste.

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Nutella is so great with bananas, apples and of course with a gluten-free bread!  This can be stored at the fridge for a week.  Although it will harden there, it can be softened by placing some in a small bowl and follow the steps of melting coconut oil (see method above).  

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We made it through the first week of daylight savings time.  The days have been brighter lately and although it's still quite cold in Toronto, the signs of Spring are all around us.  This weekend, I was able to enjoy some peace and quiet in our home which was a good break.   My son was at his Lola's place spending time with her.  Have yourself a wonderful week!

Sincerely, 

LIna