Hazelnut Spread Buying Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Jar

Navigating the endless aisle of hazelnut spreads can be overwhelming. From the iconic recipe of our childhood to ultra-indulgent artisanal versions and palm oil-free alternatives, it's tough to know where to start. Whether it's for Sunday crêpes, morning toast, or homemade pastries, every connoisseur has their own criteria.

Our mission?? To help you decode the labels and uncover the hazelnut spread that truly satisfies your cravings, going beyond the marketing hype.

Buyer's Guide?: 3 Key Criteria for Choosing Your Hazelnut Spread

Before you indulge, here are the key factors to consider.

1. Hazelnut Percentage?: The Heart of the Matter

This is the primary indicator of quality and flavour intensity: the hazelnut percentage. A content between 10?% and 15?% offers a balanced, familiar taste that's typically a hit with kids. For a richer, more authentic flavour, look for recipes with 25?% hazelnuts or more. This brings you closer to a true hazelnut cream, perfect for purists.

2. The Ingredients?: With or Without Palm Oil??

For many, the presence of palm oil is a deal-breaker. Long favoured for its low cost and the stable texture it provides, it's now frequently replaced by other vegetable oils. A palm oil-free hazelnut spread typically uses sunflower oil or cocoa butter instead. This can impact the texture, which may be slightly less smooth, as well as the nutritional profile. A quick glance at the label is essential to make an informed choice.

3. The Chocolate-Hazelnut Balance

The magic of a great hazelnut spread lies in the balance between hazelnut and cocoa. The proportion of each ingredient is what defines its character. A chocolate hazelnut spread rich in cocoa will deliver a bolder, less sweet flavour that appeals more to adults. Conversely, a recipe where hazelnut and sugar are more prominent will be sweeter and delightfully nostalgic.

Top Hazelnut Spreads to Consider

Here are our top picks, each with its own unique qualities to please every palate.

Nutella Hazelnut Spread 630 g

Why it stands out: It's THE iconic benchmark, with a unique taste that has defined generations. Its creamy texture and perfect balance make it a timeless classic for any snack.

• Highlights:

  • An ultra-smooth texture that's easy to spread.
  • A familiar, comforting taste that's universally loved.
  • Contains 13?% hazelnuts and 7.4?% skimmed cocoa powder.

• Best for?

  • Families looking for a reliable choice for breakfast and crêpe nights.
  • Anyone nostalgic for that iconic childhood flavour.

View product on Joybuy.fr

NELLA Roasted Hazelnut Spread 700 g

Why it stands out: With this spread, the hazelnut reigns supreme. Its rich, deep flavour, enhanced by roasting, offers a far more intense experience than classic recipes.

• Highlights:

  • A true hazelnut powerhouse: 25?%.
  • A powerful roasted hazelnut aroma.
  • A large 700 g jar, perfect for true fans.

• Best for?

  • Those who find traditional spreads too sweet and lacking in intense hazelnut flavour.
  • Home bakers looking for an ingredient with real character.

View product on Joybuy.fr

LUCIEN GEORGELIN Lot & Garonne Hazelnut / Cocoa Spread 400 g

Why it stands out: Made in France, this is the perfect Nutella alternative for the label-conscious consumer. It combines a high hazelnut content with a palm oil-free recipe.

• Highlights:

  • A palm oil-free recipe (using sunflower oil instead).
  • High hazelnut content: 25% Lot-et-Garonne hazelnuts.
  • Quality ingredients (cane sugar, natural vanilla extract).

• Best for?

  • Gourmets seeking a product with an authentic taste and a cleaner ingredient list.
  • Those who want to eliminate palm oil without sacrificing flavour.

View product on Joybuy.fr

Looking for Even More Options??

Our selection is just a starting point. From organic and dark chocolate spreads to almond varieties and family-sized jars, feel free to explore our full range to discover all the options.

Discover Our Full Range of Spreads

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What's the difference between hazelnut cream and hazelnut spread?

Hazelnut cream is a simpler, purer preparation with a very high hazelnut content (often over 50?%), very little sugar, and no cocoa. A hazelnut spread is a more complex blend that includes sugar, cocoa, milk powder, and fat to achieve that beloved, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How do I choose a palm oil-free hazelnut spread?

Your first step should be to check the ingredient list on the back of the jar. Look for a "?palm oil-free?" claim or simply identify the type of oil used. The most common alternatives are sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, or cocoa butter.

What's the best way to store hazelnut spread?

Store your hazelnut spread at room temperature in a cupboard, away from heat and light. Most importantly, do not refrigerate it?! The cold causes the fats to solidify, which ruins its smooth consistency and makes it difficult to spread.