What's a Healthy Alternative to Nutella?

A standard two-tablespoon serving of Nutella contains 21 grams of sugar, nearly the daily recommended limit for women and children. But craving a rich chocolate hazelnut spread doesn't have to mean a sugar overload, which is why finding a healthy alternative to Nutella has become a top priority for many looking for a smarter indulgence.

Quick Summary

This guide explores nutritious homemade chocolate spreads using nuts and carob, alongside healthier store-bought hazelnut and almond butter options.

Key Points

• Nutella is high in sugar: A standard serving contains a significant amount of sugar, far exceeding recommended daily limits for many.

• Homemade spreads offer control: Making your own hazelnut, almond, or carob spread allows you to control sweeteners, fats, and overall nutritional content.

• Carob is a caffeine-free, high-fiber alternative: Naturally sweet carob powder makes an excellent chocolate substitute, and it is rich in beneficial fiber.

• Store-bought options vary widely: Always read labels to find brands that prioritize whole nuts, low sugar, and are often palm oil-free, like Justin's or Artisana.

• Nut butters offer added nutrients: While calorie-dense, spreads like almond and cashew butter provide healthy fats, protein, and other vital nutrients.

• Consider allergies and diet: Nut-free alternatives using seed butter and carob are available, and keto-friendly options are sweetened with natural substitutes like monk fruit.

Why Seek an Alternative to Nutella?

While beloved by many, conventional Nutella is primarily composed of sugar and palm oil, with hazelnuts and cocoa making up a much smaller percentage. This high sugar and saturated fat content contributes significantly to its calorie count, making it a less-than-ideal choice for daily consumption. Many health-conscious individuals and families look for alternatives that offer similar flavor profiles but with cleaner, more nutrient-dense ingredients. Homemade spreads, for instance, allow for full control over the type and amount of sweeteners and fats used, while many store-bought brands now focus on organic, palm oil-free, and low-sugar formulations.

Homemade Healthy Chocolate Spreads

Making your own healthy chocolate spread is simpler than you might think and allows for endless customization. Here are some popular recipes:

Homemade Hazelnut Cacao Spread

This recipe mimics the classic flavor while dramatically reducing sugar and using whole-food ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted hazelnuts (skin removed)
• 2-3 tbsp unsweetened cacao or cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or other milk of choice)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Add the roasted hazelnuts to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend for several minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the nuts form a smooth butter. This may take 5-10 minutes, depending on your appliance.
2. Add the cacao powder, maple syrup, almond milk, coconut oil, vanilla, and salt. Continue blending until the mixture is creamy and well combined. You can adjust the amount of milk for your desired consistency.
3. Store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

DIY Chocolate Almond Butter

Almond butter is a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and vitamin E, offering a nutritional boost.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups roasted almonds
• 3-4 tbsp cocoa powder
• 2-3 tbsp maple syrup or date paste
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Process the roasted almonds in a food processor until creamy almond butter is formed.
2. Add remaining ingredients and blend until fully incorporated. If too thick, add a small amount of almond milk to reach your desired texture.

Sugar-Free Carob Spread

Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it an excellent alternative to cocoa for a mild, naturally sweet chocolate-like flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cashew butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
• 1/4 cup carob powder
• 1/4 cup milk (plant-based or dairy)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp maple syrup for extra sweetness

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
2. For a smoother consistency, use a food processor or blender.

Store-Bought Healthy Nutella Alternatives

For those who prefer convenience, the market now offers many healthier pre-made chocolate spreads. Look for brands that list nuts as the first ingredient, use minimal sugar, and avoid palm oil.

Brands to Look For

• Justin's Chocolate Hazelnut Butter: This option contains almonds alongside hazelnuts and is made with quality ingredients.
• Artisana Organics Hazelnut Cacao Spread: Features a simple, organic ingredient list without added oils or refined sugars.
• ChocZero Milk Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: A keto-friendly, sugar-free option sweetened with monk fruit.
• Nocciolata Organic Hazelnut Spread with Cocoa: An organic, palm oil-free Italian spread using high-quality ingredients.

Comparison of Nutella vs. Healthy Spreads

Feature	Nutella	Homemade Hazelnut Spread	Store-Bought Alternative	Carob Spread
Primary Ingredients	Sugar, Palm Oil	Hazelnuts	Nuts, Cocoa/Cacao, Natural Sweeteners	Cashew/Seed Butter, Carob
Sugar Content (per 2 tbsp)	High (~21g)	Low (Controllable)	Low to None (Varies by brand)	Low to None
Fat Type	Saturated Fat (Palm Oil)	Monounsaturated (from nuts)	Healthy Fats (Varies by brand)	Healthy Fats (from cashews)
Fiber	Low	Higher	Higher	Very High
Control over Ingredients	None	Total Control	Limited (Read labels)	Total Control
Caffeine	Contains Caffeine	Contains Caffeine	Varies by brand	Caffeine-Free

Tips for Making the Healthiest Choice

When selecting a healthy alternative, consider your specific dietary needs and preferences. If sugar intake is your main concern, opt for homemade recipes or store-bought brands sweetened with alternatives like monk fruit or dates. For those avoiding palm oil, many healthy brands proudly advertise their palm oil-free status. If you have nut allergies, a carob-based spread using sunflower seed butter is a safe and delicious choice. Remember that while healthier, nut butters are still calorie-dense, so portion control remains important.

Conclusion

Satisfying a craving for a decadent chocolate spread doesn't have to compromise your health goals. By exploring simple homemade recipes or selecting from the growing number of high-quality, low-sugar store-bought options, you can find a delicious and nutritious healthy alternative to Nutella. These substitutes prioritize whole ingredients, healthier fats, and less added sugar, allowing you to enjoy a guilt-free treat. Whether you prefer the classic hazelnut flavor or want to experiment with almond or carob, the ideal healthy spread for your palate is within reach. For more information on why high sugar intake is a concern, check out this guide from Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a homemade Nutella alternative actually healthier?

Yes, homemade versions are typically healthier because you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to use healthier fats, less sugar (or a natural alternative), and avoid additives and palm oil found in the commercial product.

How long do homemade chocolate spreads last?

Homemade spreads generally last for about two weeks when stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. Unlike store-bought versions with preservatives, their shelf life is shorter and they will harden when cold.

Can I use peanut butter as a base for a Nutella alternative?

Absolutely. Peanut butter works as a delicious base for a homemade chocolate spread and is often more affordable. Simply combine natural peanut butter with cocoa powder, a sweetener like maple syrup, and a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency.

What's a good alternative for someone with a nut allergy?

A carob spread made with sunflower seed butter or tahini is an excellent nut-free alternative. Carob powder provides a chocolate-like flavor that is naturally sweet, and seed butters offer a similar creamy texture.

Are all store-bought healthy spreads low in sugar?

No, not all store-bought options are low in sugar, so it's crucial to read the nutritional label carefully. Some use cane sugar or honey, while truly low-sugar or keto spreads use alternative sweeteners like monk fruit.

Why do some healthy spreads contain almonds, even if they're labeled 'hazelnut'?

Some healthier hazelnut spreads, like Justin's, include almonds for a more balanced flavor profile and to reduce production costs. It's important to check the full ingredient list if you have a specific preference or allergy.

What are the benefits of using carob instead of cocoa powder?

Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it a great option for children or those sensitive to caffeine. It is also rich in fiber and has a mild, earthy, and chocolate-like flavor.