Homemade Spreads to Always Have on Hand
Why buy it when you can blend it better at home? These two spreads — a silky homemade Nutella and a naturally sweet peanut butter — are delicious, wholesome, and surprisingly simple to make. They’ve become pantry staples at deesviral, and soon, they’ll be in yours too.
🍫 Homemade Nutella – Chocolate Hazelnut Bliss
Creamy, chocolatey, and absolutely dreamy. This homemade Nutella is made with roasted hazelnuts and real cocoa for a rich flavor that’s both nostalgic and elevated.
What You’ll Need:
2 cups raw or roasted hazelnuts (unsalted)
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tbsp neutral oil (hazelnut, coconut, or avocado)
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup melted dark or milk chocolate (optional, for extra richness)
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread hazelnuts on a tray and roast for 10–12 minutes.
- Let cool slightly, then rub them in a towel to remove most of the skins.
- Add nuts to a food processor and blend 5–10 minutes. The texture will go from crumbs to thick paste, then to smooth nut butter.
- Add cocoa, sugar, oil, vanilla, and salt. Blend until smooth and silky.
- For a richer spread, blend in melted chocolate at the end.
- Store in a jar at room temperature (up to 2 weeks) or refrigerate for up to 1 month.
Spread it on toast, drizzle over pancakes, or eat it by the spoonful!
Variations
For a dairy-free version of the homemade Nutella, replace the melted chocolate with a tablespoon of coconut oil and an extra teaspoon of cocoa powder.
This keeps the richness while making it vegan-friendly. If you prefer a nut-free alternative, try using sunflower seeds instead of hazelnuts—they blend into a similarly creamy texture with a slightly earthy flavor.
For a twist on the peanut butter, swap the peanuts for almonds or cashews and add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for extra depth.
If you love bold flavors, experiment with adding espresso powder to the Nutella for a mocha kick or a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the peanut butter for a sweet-and-salty combo.
For a healthier take, reduce the sugar in both spreads and let the natural nutty sweetness shine.
You can also add chia seeds or flaxseeds to the peanut butter for a boost of omega-3s and fiber.
For seasonal variations, stir in pumpkin spice to the Nutella during fall or mix crushed peppermint candies into the peanut butter around the holidays.
If you’re feeling adventurous, blend in a handful of dried fruit like dates or figs for a chewy texture and caramel-like sweetness. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Tips
To achieve the smoothest texture for your Nutella, be patient while blending the hazelnuts. It may take up to 10 minutes for the oils to release and the mixture to become creamy.
Scrape down the sides of the food processor occasionally to ensure even blending. If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit more oil, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
When making peanut butter, opt for freshly roasted peanuts for the best flavor. If using raw peanuts, roast them at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes before blending.
For a chunkier peanut butter, reserve a handful of crushed peanuts and stir them in at the end.
If the spread seizes up in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes or give it a quick stir to soften.
For both spreads, taste as you go and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your preference. If the Nutella is too bitter, add a touch more powdered sugar.
If the peanut butter is too bland, a pinch of salt or a dash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor. Remember, homemade spreads may separate over time—just stir them well before using.
How to Store
Store both spreads in clean, airtight jars at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent spoilage, especially for the Nutella, which contains oil and can turn rancid faster.
The peanut butter will keep for up to 3 weeks in the fridge, while the Nutella stays fresh for about a month when chilled.
To extend shelf life, ensure the jars are completely dry before filling them, and use a clean spoon every time you dip in. If you notice any off smells or mold, discard the spread immediately.
For longer storage, you can freeze portions in small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before using.
If separation occurs, don’t worry—it’s natural for the oils to rise to the top. Simply stir the spread until it’s homogeneous again.
For easier mixing, let refrigerated spreads sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes first. To prevent separation, store the jars upside down for the first day, which helps redistribute the oils.
Conclusion
Homemade spreads like Nutella and peanut butter are not only tastier than store-bought versions but also free from preservatives and customizable to your preferences. With just a few simple ingredients and a food processor, you can whip up these pantry staples in no time. They’re perfect for elevating breakfasts, snacks, or even desserts.
Once you try these recipes, you’ll never go back to the jarred stuff. The rich, authentic flavors and the satisfaction of making them yourself are unbeatable. Keep a batch on hand, and you’ll always have a delicious way to brighten up your meals!