In a quaint little café nestled in the heart of a bustling city, I once stumbled upon a heavenly hazelnut butter that was infused with exotic spices. It was a delightful experience that lingered in my mind long after I left. The rich, creamy texture and the aromatic hint of cardamom transported me to a world of culinary bliss. Inspired by that moment, I decided to recreate this magical spread in my own kitchen. This recipe is a tribute to that café and a celebration of flavors that come together to create something truly unique.
Ingredients
2 cups hazelnuts
2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as they can go from perfect to charred in a matter of moments.
Once roasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. When they are cool enough to handle, place them in a clean kitchen towel and rub them together to remove the skins. It’s okay if some skins remain; it adds character to your nut butter!
Transfer the hazelnuts to a food processor. Blend on high speed until they begin to break down and form a creamy paste. This process can take about 5-8 minutes, and you may need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
As the mixture starts to come together, add in the coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cardamom, maple syrup (if using), and sea salt. Continue to blend until the nut butter reaches your desired consistency—smooth and creamy or a bit chunky, depending on your preference.
Once done, taste your creation and adjust the sweetness or saltiness if needed. Transfer the hazelnut and cardamom butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to two weeks, though I doubt it will last that long!
Serve your Heavenly Hazelnut & Cardamom Butter on warm toast, drizzled over pancakes, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful. Each bite will transport you to that charming café, filling your day with warmth and joy. Enjoy your culinary adventure!