Dessert - Chocolate hazelnut cream.....Nutella by Anabela A. - Recipia
Chocolate hazelnut cream, a delicious treat that evokes pleasant memories and moments of indulgence, is now becoming a family recipe, simple and healthy, that you can make at home. This homemade version of Nutella will not only delight your taste buds but also give you the assurance that the ingredients are of the highest quality. It is perfect for breakfast, desserts, or as a filling for various sweets. Let's see together how we can create this delight!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 1 kg

Ingredients
- 400 ml condensed milk
- 150 g hazelnuts (roasted)
- 75 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 200 g butter (preferably of high quality)
- 100 g chocolate for melting (preferably pralines or dark chocolate)

Necessary utensils
- Frying pan
- Blender
- Mixing bowl
- Bain-marie or heat-resistant bowl
- Sterilized jars for storage

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the hazelnuts
Start by roasting the hazelnuts. If you choose hazelnuts with shells, soak them in hot water for a few minutes to make them easier to peel. After removing them from the water, dry them with a clean towel and place them in a dry frying pan. Roast them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. You will smell their delicious aroma developing!

2. Melting the chocolate
While the hazelnuts are roasting, prepare the chocolate. Cut the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a heat-resistant bowl. Place the bowl over a pot of boiling water (bain-marie technique). Add half of the butter and gently stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

3. Grinding the hazelnuts
Once the hazelnuts are roasted, place them in a blender. Grind them until they become a fine powder. This process releases the natural oils of the hazelnuts, which will add a creamy texture to your cream.

4. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the condensed milk, unsweetened cocoa, and powdered sugar. Mix well to obtain a smooth paste. Then, add the ground hazelnuts, melted chocolate, and the remaining butter. Stir everything with a spatula or whisk until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.

5. In jars
Once the cream is well combined, pour it into sterilized jars while still warm. Leave them uncovered at room temperature until they cool completely. This will help the cream to thicken.

Practical tips
- Storing the cream: Unlike commercial Nutella, which contains preservatives, your chocolate hazelnut cream should be kept in the refrigerator, due to the butter and condensed milk, to prolong its shelf life. It can be consumed within 2-3 weeks.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts (almonds, pistachios) or add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. For an aromatic note, you can also add a splash of vanilla extract.
- Uses: Use the cream as a filling for pancakes, cakes, or even in smoothies for an energy boost. It is also excellent on toast or as a topping for ice cream.

Nutritional benefits
This chocolate hazelnut cream offers a delicious combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Hazelnuts are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, while unsweetened cocoa has positive effects on mood due to its flavonoid content. Condensed milk adds a calcium boost, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? Yes, but keep in mind that it will add a sweeter taste and slightly change the texture.
- How can I make the cream less sweet? You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use less sweet cocoa.
- Is it suitable for vegans? This recipe contains butter and condensed milk, but you can use plant-based alternatives to adapt it.

Serving
For a complete indulgence, serve the chocolate hazelnut cream on a slice of toast, alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Add a few slices of banana or fresh strawberries for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Now that you know how to prepare this delicious cream, it's time to put your culinary skills to the test! Whether you use it as an ingredient in sophisticated desserts or simply as a delicious snack, it will surely be a hit among your loved ones. Enjoy!

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Dessert - Chocolate hazelnut cream.....Nutella by Anabela A. - Recipia

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