CHOCOLATE HAZELNUT SMOOTHIE (NUTELLA-STYLE, SUGAR-FREE)
A creamy, indulgent 5-minute blender drink that tastes like liquid Nutella but keeps things healthy
KEY INFO:
Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Vegan, Dairy-free, Sugar-free, Keto-friendly option
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- High-speed blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Alternative: Regular blender (soak nuts 30 mins first)
INGREDIENTS:
Base:
- 1/4 cup (30g) toasted hazelnuts OR 2 tbsp hazelnut butter
- 1 cup (240ml) non-dairy milk (almond, cashew, or oat)
- 1-2 tbsp cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Sweetener (choose one):
- 2-3 drops liquid stevia
- 1-2 tbsp erythritol
- 1 medjool date (not sugar-free option)
Optional Add-ins:
- 4-5 ice cubes for frostiness
- 1 frozen banana (not sugar-free/keto)
- Coconut whipped cream for topping
METHOD:
- Toast hazelnuts at 350°F/175°C for 8-10 minutes until fragrant (if using whole nuts)
- Add hazelnuts, milk, cacao powder, sweetener, vanilla, and salt to blender
- Blend on high for 30-60 seconds until completely smooth
- Add ice or frozen banana (if using) and blend additional 10-20 seconds
- Check consistency – should be creamy but pourable. Add more liquid if too thick
CRUCIAL TIPS:
- Toast nuts for best flavor
- Start with less sweetener – easier to add more
- Scrape down blender sides if needed
- Strain through fine mesh if texture isn’t perfectly smooth
STORAGE & VARIATIONS:
- Best consumed immediately
- Keeps 24 hours refrigerated (will separate – stir before drinking)
- Keto version: Use heavy cream and sugar-free sweetener
- Protein boost: Add 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- Nut-free: Use sunflower seed butter instead
MISTAKES TO AVOID:
- Using raw hazelnuts (less flavor)
- Adding too much ice (dilutes taste)
- Not blending long enough
- Skipping the salt (enhances chocolate flavor)
Remember to taste and adjust sweetness – sugar-free sweeteners vary in intensity. The smoothie should be rich and indulgent while keeping things healthy!
