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The humble jar of chocolate hazelnut spread holds a special place in many UK cupboards. It’s a simple pleasure, perfect for slathering on morning toast, drizzling over pancakes or even enjoying straight from the spoon. But a quick look at the supermarket aisle reveals a landscape that has grown far beyond a single, familiar brand. From intensely nutty, artisanal creations to vegan-friendly and white chocolate versions, the choice can be overwhelming.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the options. As your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to filter the market information and provide clear, practical advice. We will explore what to look for when you shop and highlight a few standout choices to help you find the perfect spread for your household.
Before we get to our recommendations, here are a few key factors to consider that will help you make a more informed decision.
The single biggest factor influencing the taste and quality of a cocoa hazelnut spread is its hazelnut content. This can vary dramatically between brands, from around 10% to upwards of 50%. A higher percentage typically delivers a richer, more authentic nutty flavour and a less sugary taste. If you are looking for a more grown-up, intense flavour, checking the ingredients list for the hazelnut percentage is a great place to start.
Many shoppers are now paying closer attention to ingredient lists for both dietary and environmental reasons. A common point of comparison is the use of palm oil. While it helps create a smooth, stable texture, a growing number of brands now offer palm oil-free alternatives.
Similarly, if you follow a plant-based diet, you will want to look for a vegan chocolate spread. Traditional recipes often contain skimmed milk powder, but many excellent vegan options are now available that use alternative ingredients without compromising on a creamy texture.
While the classic milk chocolate and hazelnut combination remains the most popular, the market now includes exciting variations. For those who find traditional spreads a bit too rich or simply fancy a change, a white chocolate spread offers a sweeter, creamier experience. These alternatives are excellent for baking or as a novel topping for desserts.
Here are three different types of chocolate hazelnut spread, each offering something unique for different tastes and preferences.
Why It Stands Out: This spread from Islands Chocolate is defined by its remarkable ingredient profile. With hazelnuts (55%) as the primary ingredient, it delivers an intensely nutty and rich chocolate flavour that feels truly premium. It’s also formulated without palm oil and is entirely plant-based.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is an ideal choice for the discerning shopper who prioritises flavour intensity and ingredient quality. It’s perfect for those seeking a high-quality Nutella alternative that is both vegan and palm oil-free.
Why It Stands Out: Nutella is the original and the benchmark against which all other chocolate hazelnut spreads are measured. Its iconic flavour—sweet, milky and unmistakably smooth—is a source of comfort and nostalgia for millions. With 13% hazelnuts, it focuses on a creamy texture and sweet chocolatey taste.
Pros:
Who is it for? For those who love the traditional, sweet taste of the world’s most famous hazelnut spread. It’s the go-to for a familiar family favourite and a perfect spread for pancakes, toast and more.
Why It Stands Out: This spread offers a delightful departure from the norm. By swapping cocoa for cocoa butter and milk powders, this white chocolate spread delivers a distinctly sweet and creamy flavour profile. It’s a fantastic alternative for those with a sweet tooth or anyone looking for a different kind of treat.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is for anyone who loves white chocolate or is seeking a creative alternative to traditional cocoa-based spreads. It’s a fun choice for families and home bakers looking to experiment with new flavours.
These three recommendations represent just a fraction of the variety available. The world of chocolate hazelnut spread is vast, with options to suit every palate, diet and budget.
If you're curious to see more artisanal, organic or store-brand options, we invite you to browse our full collection of hazelnut spread.
What can you use chocolate hazelnut spread for? Beyond toast, it is an incredibly versatile ingredient. It works wonderfully as a spread for pancakes and waffles, a dip for fresh fruit like strawberries and bananas, a filling for crepes and pastries or even stirred into hot porridge for a decadent breakfast.
Is there a difference between hazelnut spread and Nutella? Yes. Nutella is a specific, well-known brand of hazelnut spread. The term "hazelnut spread" refers to the broader category of products. Many people search for a Nutella alternative to find spreads with different characteristics, such as a higher nut content, vegan ingredients or the absence of palm oil.
How should I store my chocolate hazelnut spread? For most brands, the ideal storage condition is at room temperature in a cool, dry cupboard away from direct sunlight. Storing it in the fridge is generally not recommended, as the cold temperature can cause the oils to solidify, making the spread hard and difficult to use. Always check the product label for specific storage guidance.