Not-so-naughty Nutella!

Nutella has always been a vice of mine! But since becoming more and more health conscious over the past few years, it has been firmly removed from my kitchen cupboards - much to my tastebuds' horror! Despite the adverts claiming that Nutella on toast really is a nutritious start to the day, I was only too aware of the dangers of this super sugary spread!

However - and this is big, so brace yourselves - I have finally discovered an almighty combination of ingredients that not only beats the original Nutella in flavour, but also in nutritional value! This recipe is utterly delicious, and I'm so excited to share it with you!

For one small jar you'll need:

1 cup of roasted hazelnuts*

1/2 cup of almonds

1/3 cup raw cocoa powder (more or less depending on how chocolatey you want your Nutella)

4 tbs pure maple syrup (or another liquid sweetener of your choice)

1/2 cup almond milk

1 tbs coconut oil

A little pure vanilla essence to taste

*If you buy whole hazelnuts, you'll have to roast them for about 15 mins on 180 degrees Celsius, let them cool and then remove the majority of the crispy skins. Alternatively you can get away with buying the pre chopped roasted nuts and start from there. But whichever way you do it, make sure the nuts you use are roasted as this will intensify the nutty flavour!

Its super easy!!! Start by blitzing all your nuts to the point where they turn from a finely ground powder, to a smooth butter as the natural oils are released. At this point add the rest of your ingredients and give the whole lot another blend. Make sure you use a spoon to loosen the nut butter that will no doubt be glued to the side of your food processor and get everything thoroughly well mixed. If you find your Nutella is a little lumpy or too thick then just add small amounts of almond milk until you get the consistency you want!

I hope you all have fun making this gem of a spread, and enjoy incorporating your new Nutella into all your favourite breakfasts and desserts!

Oh and don't forget - spread a little happiness today! X