Nutella
Nutella is a creamy, sweet chocolate-hazelnut spread that has become one of the world's most popular condiments since its introduction in 1964. Made from roasted hazelnuts, cocoa, sugar, and palm oil, it combines the richness of chocolate with the subtle earthiness of toasted hazelnuts. Beyond its iconic role as a breakfast spread, Nutella has become a versatile culinary ingredient used in both sweet and savory applications, from simple toast toppings to elaborate desserts and baking preparations.
Flavor Profile
Rich cocoa sweetness with subtle bitter undertones from the cocoa solids, creating a luxurious chocolate foundation
Toasted, nutty warmth with gentle earthiness that provides depth and complexity without overpowering the chocolate
Pronounced sugar-forward sweetness with vanilla undertones, making it highly palatable to a broad audience
Smooth, buttery mouthfeel from palm oil and hazelnuts creating an indulgent, luxurious texture
Seasonality
Year-round availability; best consumption year-round as a manufactured product
Available consistently throughout all seasons globally
Best Months
Culinary Uses
Available Forms
Key Techniques
- Spreading on bread, toast, and pastries
- Melting into warm milk for hot chocolate alternative
- Incorporating into brownie and cake batters
- Swirling into cheesecake and mousse preparations
- Drizzling over ice cream and frozen desserts
- Filling for crepes, pastries, and donuts
- Mixing into cookie dough and batter
- Using as a dip for fruit and baked goods
Classic Dishes
Flavor Pairings
Perfect Pairings
Rich chocolate and hazelnut flavors create an indulgent combination popular with both children and adults
Bright acidity and fresh fruitiness balance the richness and sweetness beautifully
Buttery, neutral carbohydrate base allows Nutella to shine without competition
Complementary flavor that intensifies the signature taste profile and adds textural contrast
Bitter cocoa notes enhance chocolate depth while complementing overall richness
Good Pairings
Hazelnut-chocolate spread adds richness and nuttiness that enhances the waffle's subtle eggy undertones
Shared richness creates indulgent pairing; toasted brioche adds textural contrast to smooth spread
Adds floral complexity and softens intensity of chocolate sweetness
Mineral saltiness creates contrast with sweetness and enhances chocolate perception
Richness melds smoothly and aids in creating balanced mouthfeel
Storage & Handling
Method
Store in cool, dry pantry conditions or kitchen cabinet away from direct heat and sunlight
Duration
12-24 months from production date; 2-3 months after opening when properly sealed
Pro Tips
- Keep jar tightly sealed to prevent oxidation and moisture absorption
- Store at room temperature (64-72°F/18-22°C) to maintain optimal spreadability
- Avoid refrigeration as cold temperatures harden the spread excessively
- Once opened, use clean spoon for each serving to prevent contamination
- Natural oil separation may occur; gently stir to recombine without vigorous mixing that creates air bubbles
Origin & Heritage
History
Nutella was created in 1964 in Alba, Piedmont, Italy by Pietro Ferrero, building upon his father Giovanni Giacomo Ferrero's earlier hazelnut paste creation from 1946. The spread was developed to stretch cocoa supplies during post-WWII rationing by combining chocolate with abundant local hazelnuts. It was initially marketed as 'Supercrema' before being renamed Nutella in 1968, and has since become a global phenomenon, with production expanding internationally while maintaining strong ties to Italian and European confectionery traditions.
Cultural Significance
Nutella is deeply embedded in European breakfast culture, particularly in Italy, Germany, and France, where it is a staple on morning tables. The brand has transcended its regional origins to become a globally recognized symbol of indulgent comfort food, inspiring devoted fan communities and spawning countless cultural references in food media and popular culture. In Italy especially, spreading Nutella on bread or biscuits is an iconic childhood memory and cherished tradition.
The Science
Understanding the key chemical compounds helps explain why nutella pairs well with certain ingredients.
Naturally occurring in cocoa, creates mood-elevating and pleasure-enhancing sensations similar to chocolate consumption
Cocoa alkaloid providing mild stimulant effect and subtle bitterness that deepens chocolate perception
Aromatic compounds from roasted hazelnuts creating toasted, nutty aroma and warm, earthy flavor notes
Added vanilla extract component contributing subtle floral sweetness and softening cocoa bitterness
Polyphenolic compounds in cocoa providing antioxidant properties and subtle astringency that balances sweetness
Quick Tips
TL;DR for Nutella
Best For
Nutella Crepes, Nutella Brownies
Top Pairing
Pancake
Pro Tip
Spreading on bread, toast, and pastries
Storage
12-24 months from production date; 2-3 months after opening when properly sealed fresh · Up to 18 months in freezer at 0°F/-18°C or below frozen
Nutrition
Per 100g
Health Benefits
- Rich source of Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage
- Contains magnesium and potassium, minerals essential for heart health and blood pressure regulation
- Hazelnuts provide monounsaturated fats that support healthy cholesterol levels
- Contains polyphenols from cocoa with potential anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits
Buying Guide
Price Range: $$
Look For
- Original sealed jar with intact tamper-evident lid and undamaged label
- Check expiration/best-by date (typically 12-24 months from production)
- Consistent chocolate-brown color throughout, no discoloration or mold
- Purchase from reputable retailers with good inventory turnover to ensure freshness
Avoid
- Leaking, bulging, or compromised jar seal indicating potential fermentation or contamination
- Mold, unusual discoloration, separation with hardened top layer, or off-putting odors suggesting spoilage
- Expired or heavily faded date codes indicating prolonged storage
- Extremely hardened consistency visible through jar that suggests improper storage or old product
Where to Find
- Supermarket condiment and breakfast spread aisle, European specialty food markets and delis, Bulk retailers and warehouse clubs (Costco, Sam's Club) offering multi-packs, Online retailers (Amazon, specialty food websites) for international variants, Italian import shops and gourmet food stores, Some coffee shops and café supply stores
Did You Know?
- 1.Nutella consumes approximately 25% of the world's hazelnut production annually, making it the world's largest single user of hazelnuts and a major economic driver for Turkish and Italian hazelnut farmers
- 2.The iconic glass jar design with the raised relief logo has remained largely unchanged since the 1960s, making it one of the most recognizable food packaging designs globally
- 3.Each jar of Nutella contains approximately 50 hazelnuts, and the average European consumes 590 jars worth of Nutella annually across all hazelnut spread products
- 4.In 2012, Ferrero attempted to modify Nutella's recipe and palm oil content due to sustainability concerns, resulting in massive consumer backlash and online petitions that forced them to revert to the original formula
- 5.World Nutella Day is celebrated on February 5th by devoted fans globally, generating millions of social media posts featuring creative Nutella recipes and creations
Plating Guidance
Explore all techniques →Vessel
Choose plate that complements the dish style
Color Palette
Highlight Nutella's natural colors with contrasting elements
Arrangements
Garnish Ideas