Not-tella Chocolate Hazelnut Spread

Homemade Not-tella: A Deliciously Simple Treat

As a busy working mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. This Not-tella Chocolate Hazelnut Spread is my absolute go-to when I need a satisfying and decadent treat without spending hours in the kitchen. Forget the store-bought versions, packed with additives and questionable ingredients – this recipe lets you control exactly what goes into your spread, resulting in a richer, more authentic taste experience. The best part? It's surprisingly simple to make, even on a weeknight.

The aroma of toasted hazelnuts fills my kitchen while it bakes, creating a comforting ambiance. The process of blending the nuts into a smooth, creamy paste is oddly satisfying. I love the control this recipe offers; whether I'm using a Vitamix or a Blendtec, I can adjust the blending time to achieve the perfect consistency. The addition of high-quality dark chocolate elevates the spread to a whole new level of indulgence. The deep, rich chocolate flavor perfectly complements the nutty sweetness of the hazelnuts, creating a harmonious blend that's simply irresistible.

Beyond the Spread: This homemade Not-tella isn't just for spreading on toast or crackers. Get creative! Use it as a filling for crêpes or cookies, drizzle it over ice cream, or use it to top your morning yogurt. The possibilities are endless! This recipe is incredibly versatile and easily adaptable to your preferences. Want a sweeter spread? Use a higher percentage of cocoa chocolate. Prefer a more intense hazelnut flavor? Toast your nuts for a few extra minutes. The beauty of homemade is the flexibility to customize to your liking.

A Taste of Home, Made Easy: The satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch is unparalleled. This Not-tella is more than just a spread; it’s a taste of home, made easy. It’s a delicious reward for a long day, a simple pleasure for a quiet evening, and a sweet treat to share with loved ones. It’s a reminder that even in the midst of a busy life, taking the time to create something special can be incredibly rewarding. So ditch the store-bought version and try making your own – you won’t be disappointed.

Ingredients and Equipment: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The ingredient list is short and sweet, and the equipment required is minimal. You'll need a high-powered blender (Vitamix or Blendtec are ideal but others can be used), a baking sheet, and a container for storing your finished Not-tella.

Storing your Not-tella: Once cooled, store your homemade Not-tella in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for several weeks, but I can guarantee it won't last that long in my house!

Enjoy the Process: Don’t just focus on the end result – enjoy the process of making this Not-tella. The aroma of the toasted hazelnuts, the satisfying whir of the blender, and the anticipation of tasting your creation are all part of the culinary journey. This isn’t just about making a delicious spread; it’s about creating a moment of mindfulness and enjoyment in your day.

Sharing the Love: This Not-tella is also perfect for sharing. It makes a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift for friends and family. Imagine the joy on their faces when they receive a jar of your homemade Not-tella, made with love and care.

Final Thoughts: My Not-tella recipe is more than just a recipe; it's an experience. It’s a simple yet rewarding process that transforms humble hazelnuts and dark chocolate into a delicious and indulgent treat. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your blender, and embark on this culinary adventure. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to create a spread that rivals – and perhaps even surpasses – your favorite store-bought version. The feeling of accomplishment is just as sweet as the Not-tella itself.

Step-by-step

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C).
• Place the hazelnuts on a cookie sheet in a single layer.
• Bake in the oven for 10 minutes, or until they are lightly browned and smell toasty. Don't go for a deeper brown, else your spread will taste burnt.
• Remove from the oven and cool.
• If your hazelnuts came with the skins on them, rub them lightly with your fingertips to shuck off the skins.
• For Vitamix: Place the cooled hazelnuts in the blender container, secure the top on the container. Using your manual speed, start on speed 1, and quickly increase to speed 10, using your tamper to push the nuts down into the blades as needed until the mixture is creamy and liquid - approximately 1.5 minutes.
• Remove the lid plug and add the chocolate in three portions, running the machine for 10 seconds between each addition to combine the material.
• For Blendtec (TWISTER Jar): You will need to blend in two portions. Place half the nuts and chocolate in the jar and use your highest SPEED, turning the lid/tines counterclockwise as it blends to combine - about 1-2 minutes. Repeat with remaining half.
• For Blendtec (FOURSIDE or WILDSIDE Jar): First add the hazelnuts to your jar and use SPEED 9. If the blade spins freely, stop the machine, scrape ingredients towards the blade and repeat the process until creamy - about 4-6 minutes. Add the chocolate half at a time and repeat the process above until combined.
• You will then have an ultra-smooth “Not-tella” spread!
• Pour out the spread into a ceramic or glass storage container and cover.
• Don't worry that it is pourable at this stage; it will thicken up as it cools.
• Cool for at least 3 hours and enjoy!