Nutella, the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread, has become a staple ingredient in many kitchens worldwide. Its rich, creamy texture and indulgent flavor make it a versatile addition to countless sweet treats. Cooking with Nutella opens up a world of delicious possibilities, from simple no-bake desserts to more elaborate confections.
Home bakers and dessert enthusiasts can easily incorporate Nutella into their favorite recipes or use it as a key component in new creations. The spread can be used as a filling for pastries, mixed into batters, or swirled into ice cream. It pairs exceptionally well with fruits like bananas and strawberries, adding depth to classic desserts.
For those seeking quick and easy Nutella dessert recipes, options abound. Three-ingredient Nutella milkshakes offer a satisfying treat in minutes, while Nutella mug cakes provide instant gratification for solo indulgence. More ambitious cooks might try their hand at Nutella-stuffed churros or a decadent Nutella tiramisu, showcasing the spread’s adaptability in both simple and complex desserts.
Understanding Nutella
Nutella is a beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread enjoyed worldwide. Its unique flavor and versatile nature make it a popular ingredient in many sweet treats and desserts.
History and Popularity
Nutella originated in Italy during World War II. Pietro Ferrero created the spread as a way to extend chocolate supplies, which were scarce at the time. He combined hazelnuts, which were plentiful in the Piedmont region, with cocoa to create a paste.
The spread gained popularity in Europe throughout the 1960s. It was introduced to the United States in 1983 and quickly became a household name. Today, Nutella is sold in over 160 countries and is a staple in many kitchens.
Nutella’s popularity has led to the creation of World Nutella Day, celebrated annually on February 5th.
Nutritional Information
Nutella is primarily made of sugar and palm oil, with hazelnuts, cocoa, and skimmed milk powder as additional ingredients. A 2-tablespoon (37g) serving contains:
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 21g
- Protein: 2g
While Nutella is high in calories and sugar, it does provide some nutritional benefits. Hazelnuts contain healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants.
Homemade Nutella Alternatives
For those looking to control ingredients or create a healthier version, homemade Nutella alternatives are possible. A basic recipe includes:
- 2 cups roasted hazelnuts
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2-3 tbsp oil (hazelnut or vegetable)
Blend hazelnuts until smooth, add remaining ingredients, and process until creamy. This homemade version allows for customization of sweetness and chocolate intensity.
Variations can include using different nuts, adding protein powder, or incorporating coconut oil for a tropical twist.
Preparation Basics
Cooking with Nutella requires specific equipment, careful ingredient selection, and proper storage techniques. These fundamentals ensure successful and delicious Nutella-based treats.
Equipment and Tools Needed
A reliable offset spatula is essential for spreading Nutella evenly on cakes or cookies. A double boiler or microwave-safe bowl helps melt Nutella smoothly without burning. Silicone spatulas are ideal for scraping every last bit of the spread from jars and mixing bowls.
For baking, invest in quality baking sheets, parchment paper, and cooling racks. A stand mixer or hand mixer simplifies incorporating Nutella into batters and frostings. Piping bags with various tips allow for decorative Nutella applications.
Consider specialized molds for Nutella-filled chocolates or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup when working with sticky Nutella-based recipes.
Ingredient Selection
Choose high-quality Nutella for the best flavor in your treats. Look for fresh jars with smooth, glossy textures and no signs of separation. Pair Nutella with complementary ingredients like hazelnuts, chocolate chips, or bananas to enhance its flavor profile.
For baked goods, use unsalted butter to control the overall saltiness. Opt for pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for richer taste. When recipes call for cocoa powder, Dutch-processed varieties blend well with Nutella’s sweetness.
Select ripe fruits for Nutella-fruit combinations. Firm, slightly underripe bananas work best for Nutella-banana desserts, maintaining their shape during baking.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store unopened Nutella jars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, keep Nutella at room temperature for up to 3 months. Refrigeration is not recommended as it hardens the spread and affects its texture.
For homemade Nutella treats, use airtight containers to maintain freshness. Refrigerate items with perishable ingredients like cream cheese or butter. Most Nutella baked goods stay fresh at room temperature for 3-5 days.
Freeze Nutella-based cookies, brownies, or cakes for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Simple Nutella Treats
Nutella’s rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor lends itself to quick and easy desserts. These simple treats require minimal ingredients and preparation time, allowing anyone to create delicious Nutella-based sweets at home.
Nutella Toast Variations
Elevate plain toast with creative Nutella spreads. Start with a base of toasted bread and a layer of Nutella. Add sliced bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic combination. For a nutty crunch, top with chopped hazelnuts or almonds. Create a fruity twist by adding strawberry slices or raspberries. For a decadent treat, sprinkle mini marshmallows on top and broil briefly until golden. A dash of sea salt enhances the chocolate flavor. Experiment with different bread types like brioche or whole grain for varied textures and flavors.
Quick Nutella Mug Cake
Satisfy sweet cravings in minutes with a Nutella mug cake. Mix 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 4 tablespoons of milk, 1 egg, and 3 tablespoons of Nutella in a microwave-safe mug. Stir until smooth. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking. The cake is done when it springs back to the touch. Let it cool for a minute before eating. For extra indulgence, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Easy Nutella Dessert Pizza
Transform pizza night with a sweet Nutella version. Use pre-made pizza dough or a large cookie as the base. Spread a generous layer of Nutella over the crust, leaving a small border. Add toppings like sliced strawberries, banana chunks, or crushed cookies. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until the crust is golden. Drizzle with melted white chocolate or caramel sauce. Cut into slices and serve warm. This dessert pizza is perfect for sharing at parties or as a fun family treat.
Nutella Baking
Baking with Nutella opens up a world of delicious possibilities. This versatile spread can be incorporated into a variety of baked goods, adding rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor to classic recipes.
Nutella Brownies and Bars
Nutella brownies offer a decadent twist on a classic treat. Mix Nutella directly into the batter for fudgy, hazelnut-flavored brownies. For a marbled effect, swirl Nutella through the batter before baking.
Nutella bars provide a portable sweet snack. Layer Nutella between cookie dough or graham cracker crusts for easy-to-eat bars. No-bake options like Nutella rice krispie treats offer a quick alternative.
For extra indulgence, try Nutella-stuffed brownies. Drop spoonfuls of Nutella into the batter, then swirl for pockets of gooey goodness.
Cookies and Biscuits with Nutella
Nutella cookies are a crowd-pleasing favorite. Incorporate Nutella into standard cookie dough for chocolate-hazelnut flavor throughout. For a more dramatic effect, stuff cookie dough with Nutella before baking.
Thumbprint cookies filled with Nutella offer a pretty presentation. Simply press an indentation into baked cookies and fill with warmed Nutella.
Nutella-stuffed chocolate chip cookies provide a surprise center. Wrap cookie dough around a frozen Nutella dollop before baking for a molten core.
For a lighter option, try Nutella meringue cookies. Fold Nutella into meringue batter for airy, crisp cookies with rich flavor.
Nutella-Stuffed Pastries
Nutella babka intertwines sweet bread dough with swirls of Nutella. This impressive loaf features layers of bread and chocolate-hazelnut spread throughout.
Nutella-stuffed croissants elevate the classic French pastry. Spread Nutella on the dough before rolling and shaping for a decadent breakfast treat.
For a quick option, try Nutella puff pastry turnovers. Wrap store-bought puff pastry around Nutella filling and bake until golden and flaky.
Nutella-filled donuts offer a fun twist on the traditional jelly-filled variety. Pipe Nutella into freshly fried donuts for a warm, gooey center.
Cakes and Cupcakes
Nutella cake layers chocolate cake with Nutella frosting for an indulgent dessert. Spread Nutella between layers and frost the exterior for maximum impact.
Nutella cupcakes can be made by adding Nutella to cake batter or frosting. For a filled cupcake, core the center and pipe in Nutella before frosting.
Nutella cheesecake incorporates the spread into the filling for a rich, creamy dessert. Swirl additional Nutella on top for a marbled effect.
For a lighter option, try Nutella chiffon cake. This airy cake features Nutella folded into a light, fluffy batter for subtle chocolate-hazelnut flavor.
No-Bake Nutella Delights
Nutella enthusiasts can indulge in delectable treats without turning on the oven. These no-bake desserts showcase the rich, chocolatey-hazelnut flavor of Nutella in creamy, frozen, and bite-sized forms.
Nutella Cheesecake Varieties
No-bake Nutella cheesecakes offer a luscious blend of cream cheese and chocolate-hazelnut spread. For a classic version, mix cream cheese, Nutella, and powdered sugar until smooth. Press a graham cracker crust into a springform pan, pour in the filling, and refrigerate for several hours.
Mini Nutella cheesecakes in jars provide single-serving convenience. Layer crushed cookies, the Nutella-cream cheese mixture, and whipped cream in small glass jars. Chill until set.
For a lighter option, create a Nutella cheesecake mousse. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks, then fold in a mixture of cream cheese, Nutella, and sugar. Serve in glasses topped with chocolate shavings.
Frozen Nutella Treats
Homemade Nutella ice cream requires no churning. Simply whisk together heavy cream, condensed milk, and Nutella. Pour into a freezer-safe container and freeze for 6 hours, stirring once halfway through.
Nutella popsicles offer a refreshing summertime treat. Blend Nutella with milk and pour into popsicle molds. Freeze until solid, about 4 hours.
For a crunchy twist, make Nutella bark. Melt Nutella with a bit of coconut oil, spread on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and sprinkle with chopped nuts or crushed cookies. Freeze until set, then break into pieces.
Nutella Truffles and Candy
Nutella truffles make elegant bite-sized desserts. Mix Nutella with crushed cookies or ground nuts, roll into balls, and coat with cocoa powder or chopped hazelnuts. Chill until firm.
No-bake Nutella fudge comes together quickly. Melt Nutella with butter and condensed milk, pour into a lined pan, and refrigerate until set. Cut into squares.
For a crunchy treat, try Nutella cereal bars. Melt Nutella with butter, stir in crispy rice cereal, and press into a pan. Chill, then cut into bars.
Nutella for Breakfast
Nutella transforms ordinary breakfast dishes into indulgent morning treats. Its rich hazelnut-chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with classic breakfast staples.
Nutella French Toast
Nutella French toast elevates a breakfast favorite. Spread Nutella between two slices of bread before dipping in an egg mixture. Cook the sandwich on a griddle until golden brown. For extra decadence, add sliced bananas or strawberries.
To make the egg mixture, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Dip the Nutella-filled bread in this mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
Cook the French toast on medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Nutella Pancakes and Crepes
Incorporate Nutella into pancake or crepe batter for a chocolatey twist. Alternatively, use it as a filling or topping.
For Nutella pancakes, swirl a spoonful of Nutella into the batter on the griddle. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side.
To make Nutella crepes, spread a thin layer of Nutella on a freshly cooked crepe. Add sliced fruit or chopped nuts if desired. Fold the crepe and serve immediately.
For stuffed pancakes, place a dollop of Nutella between two small pancakes before they’re fully cooked. Press the edges together and continue cooking until done.
Nutella Banana Bread
Nutella banana bread combines two beloved flavors in one moist, delicious loaf. Mix mashed ripe bananas with your favorite banana bread recipe. Pour half the batter into a loaf pan.
Add dollops of Nutella on top of the batter and swirl with a knife. Pour the remaining batter over the Nutella layer. Top with more Nutella swirls.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing. This bread makes a delightful breakfast or snack.
Advanced Nutella Creations
Elevate your Nutella desserts with these sophisticated techniques and recipes. These creations showcase the versatility of Nutella in more complex, layered treats that are sure to impress.
Layered Nutella Tiramisu
Nutella Tiramisu combines the classic Italian dessert with the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread. Start by making a Nutella mascarpone cream, mixing mascarpone cheese with Nutella and a touch of heavy cream. Dip ladyfinger cookies in coffee and arrange them in a layer at the bottom of a dish.
Spread a layer of the Nutella mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of the dish, ending with the cream. Dust the top generously with cocoa powder.
For an extra touch, drizzle melted Nutella over each layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly.
Nutella Babka and Braided Breads
Nutella Babka is a rich, twisted bread filled with swirls of Nutella. Start with a sweet yeast dough, roll it out into a rectangle, and spread a generous layer of Nutella over the surface. Roll the dough tightly, then slice it lengthwise to expose the Nutella layers.
Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up to showcase the swirls. Place in a loaf pan and let it rise before baking. For braided breads, divide the dough into three ropes, fill each with Nutella, then braid them together.
Brush the top with egg wash before baking for a glossy finish. These breads make for impressive centerpieces at brunch or dessert tables.
Nutella-Stuffed Doughnuts and Churros
Nutella-stuffed doughnuts elevate the classic fried treat. Prepare a yeasted dough, let it rise, then cut into rounds. After frying, inject each doughnut with warm Nutella using a piping bag. Roll the doughnuts in sugar while still warm.
For Nutella-stuffed churros, pipe churro dough into hot oil, creating long, ridged sticks. Once golden, drain and roll in cinnamon sugar. Prepare a Nutella dipping sauce by warming Nutella with a bit of cream for a smoother consistency.
Alternatively, stuff the churros themselves. Use a churro maker with a filling attachment or carefully pipe Nutella into the center of each churro after frying. These indulgent treats pair perfectly with coffee or hot chocolate.
Decorating with Nutella
Nutella’s rich, creamy texture and intense chocolate-hazelnut flavor make it an excellent choice for decorating desserts. Its versatility allows for creative applications in frostings, icings, ganaches, and glazes.
Nutella Frosting and Icing
Nutella frosting transforms ordinary cakes and cupcakes into decadent treats. To make a basic Nutella buttercream, blend softened butter with Nutella, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency by adding milk or cream as needed.
For a lighter option, whip Nutella with cream cheese and powdered sugar. This creates a smooth, spreadable frosting perfect for layer cakes or as a cupcake topping.
To make a simple Nutella glaze, warm Nutella in the microwave and thin it with a little cream. This pourable consistency works well for drizzling over donuts, pastries, or ice cream.
Nutella Ganache and Glazes
Nutella ganache offers a luxurious finish for cakes and pastries. Heat heavy cream and pour it over chopped chocolate and Nutella. Stir until smooth and glossy. Use as a glaze while warm or let it cool for a spreadable consistency.
For a quick chocolate ganache, mix equal parts Nutella and warm cream. This versatile mixture can be poured over cakes or used as a dip for fruit and cookies.
Create a mirror glaze by combining Nutella, sweetened condensed milk, and gelatin. Pour over chilled cakes for a stunning, reflective finish. This technique adds a professional touch to homemade desserts.
Innovative Serving Ideas
Elevate your Nutella experience with creative presentation methods that engage the senses and delight guests. These ideas transform the beloved spread into memorable treats.
Nutella-Infused Beverages
Blend Nutella into milkshakes for a rich, chocolatey indulgence. Mix 2 tablespoons of Nutella with vanilla ice cream and milk for a classic Nutella Milkshake. For a twist, add a shot of espresso to create a Nutella Frappé.
Hot beverages benefit from Nutella’s creamy texture too. Stir a spoonful into hot chocolate or coffee for added depth. For a cool treat, freeze Nutella into ice cubes and use them in iced coffee or milk.
Interactive Nutella Desserts
Set up a Nutella fondue station with fresh fruits, marshmallows, and pretzels for dipping. Warm the spread slightly to enhance its dippability. This interactive dessert encourages socializing and customization.
Create a Nutella “sushi” bar where guests roll their own treats. Provide thin crepes or rice paper wrappers, Nutella, and fillings like strawberries or bananas. Guests can assemble and roll their own sweet sushi rolls.
Offer a Nutella pizza bar with pre-baked pizza crusts. Set out Nutella, sliced fruits, chopped nuts, and coconut flakes. Let everyone design their own dessert pizzas for a fun, personalized experience.