Store-bought chocolate hazelnut spread can be totally addicting. And totally unhealthy, to boot! Packed with modified oils and sugar (which is the first ingredient!), it’s far from the nutrient-packed treat it could be.
Chia Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
Making your own chocolate hazelnut spread is easy and allows for a full line-up of healthful ingredients, including chia seeds, which give this spread it’s bulk. Enjoy over a slice of warm bread or chunks of banana for an afternoon pick-me-up!
Servings 4 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cup blanched hazelnuts
- 4 oz chocolate chopped
- 4 grade B maple syrup
- ¼ cup filtered water
- 2 full-fat coconut milk
- ¼ tsp instant espresso powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup chia seeds
Instructions
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Purchase hazelnuts blanched (skins will be removed), place them in a bowl with enough filtered water to cover completely and soak overnight, or minimum 8 hours.
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Combine chopped chocolate, maple syrup, ¼ c. filtered water, coconut milk, espresso powder, and vanilla extract in a double boiler set to medium low heat. Whisk until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth.
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Drain the hazelnuts and pat them dry. Pour them into the bowl of a large food processor and process until a smooth paste forms (this will take a couple of minutes, be patient!). Add in the warmed chocolate mixture and process to fully combine, scraping down the sides every 30 seconds or so.
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Add in the chia seeds and process briefly to incorporate. Allow the spread to sit for 5-10 minutes to let the chia to plump up. Process again 30 seconds to smooth it out. Enjoy immediately!