Place slightly warm roasted and skinned hazelnuts in the food processor.
Begin by pulsing for one minute or so until you obtain the texture of finely chopped nuts.
Next, process the nuts at high speed for another minute or so. Notice the ground hazelnuts “sticking” to the sides of the bowl. Scrape down the sides.
The next minute of processing creates a clump that moves together as a mass.
As the oils continue to be released, this mass transforms into a grainy, not very thick, nut butter spread. If you like this texture, you can stop here.
If you prefer a less fluid and thicker consistency, add 1 teaspoon of room temperature water and pulse for 15-30 seconds. Notice how the nut butter becomes thicker.
If desired, add a pinch of salt at the end of the process.
Transfer to a sterile mason type jar, allow to come to room temperature and then refrigerate.
Notes
prep time includes roasting and skinning the hazelnuts
Roasting the hazelnuts might seem like an extra step, but you will be compensated with a flavorful spread.
When processing warm roasted hazelnuts, the breakdown of the oils occurs more quickly.
Throughout the process, allow your food processor to rest every minute or so to prevent the motor from overheating.
Be patient. Depending on the type of food processor you have, it can take up to 5 minutes for the hazelnuts to transform into smooth, consistency.
Scrape down the sides throughout the process to ensure an even transformation of the texture.
Use a sterile jar and lid to maximize the storage period.
1 serving=1 tablespoonHow do I store roasted hazelnut butter? Once you have attained the right consistency, transfer to sterile jars and allow to come to room temperature before refrigerating. This hazelnut spread can be refrigerated for up to one month. Can I make it crunchy? Yes! When processing the nut, remove a couple of tablespoons of the ground hazelnuts and add them at the end of the process. Can I add spices? Go ahead and experiment with the addition of your favorite sweet or savory spices to enhance the flavor. Start with 1 teaspoon, taste and adjust. Warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice contribute a wonderful depth of flavor. If you like heat, try adding turmeric or even cayenne pepper! Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is just a rough estimate and variations can occur depending on the specific ingredients used.