Some mornings you just need something that works. Something your toddler will actually eat without a negotiation, and that you don't feel guilty handing over. That's exactly where this hazelnut spread for toddlers comes in. It's thick, creamy, and has that chocolatey flavour little ones go wild for.
Made with roasted hazelnuts, date powder, and cocoa, this spread is loaded with flavor and contains no refined sugar. Hazelnuts provide healthy fats, dates add natural sweetness, and cocoa gives a mild chocolate flavor that kids love. This makes it a wholesome option for toddlers, and kids. This spread is suitable for babies 12 months+ and toddlers. Always introduce nuts cautiously and check for allergic reactions first.
This recipe is suitable from 12 months. Here's what to keep in mind at each stage:
12 to 18 months: Serve in thin, even layers on soft bread, crepe, or a small piece of tortilla. Avoid big globs. Toddlers this age are still learning to manage thicker textures. Start with a small amount and watch how they handle it.
18 to 24 months: Most toddlers this age can manage the spread easily and may want it on everything. You can offer slightly thicker portions and introduce it on more textures like a rice cake or flatbread.
2 years and up: No real adjustments needed. They'll probably start telling you when they want more.
Allergen note: This recipe contains hazelnuts, which are tree nuts - a common allergen. If you haven't introduced nuts to your toddler yet, do so carefully, one at a time, and watch for any reaction. Check with your GP or health visitor if you have any concerns before introducing.
Dates do all the sweetening here. They bring a deep, caramel-like flavour without any of the blood sugar spikes that come with refined sugar.
You need one blender and about 20 minutes. No cooking beyond roasting the hazelnuts, no complicated steps.
Hazelnuts are rich in healthy fats, which toddlers actually need in good amounts for brain development and energy through the day.
A spread this crowd-pleasing can go on so many things - which means you're not stuck serving the same meal twice in a row.
NOTE: Hazelnuts are a tree nut and a common allergen. Always introduce nuts one at a time and in small amounts. Watch for any signs of allergic reaction. Consult your paediatrician before introducing nuts to babies. Never give whole nuts to children under 5 as they are a choking hazard.
This hazelnut spread is simple to make and easy for beginners.
To begin, roast hazelnuts at 170°C / 340°F for 10–12 minutes or until a light golden brown.
Once roasted, let the hazelnuts cool slightly. Then, use a clean paper towel to rub off as much of the skins as possible. Don’t worry if some skins remain - it won’t affect the flavor.
Next, blend the roasted hazelnuts until they turn into smooth hazelnut butter.
Add dates powder, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, salt, and oil.
Blend again until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Either serve immediately or store for later use.
For Babies (12 months+): Introduce nuts very cautiously and serve in tiny amounts to check for any allergic reaction.
For Toddlers: Spread thinly on toast or serve as a dip with fruits.
Nut Alternatives: If preferred, replace hazelnuts with almonds or peanuts.
Sweetness Tip: Adjust date powder to taste. Can also use maple syrup/honey.
Texture Tip: Blend for longer to achieve a smoother consistency.
This spread works at almost any time of day. It's most useful at:
Room Temperature:
Store in an airtight jar in a cool place for 2–3 days.
Refrigeration:
Store the hazelnut spread in a clean airtight glass jar in the refrigerator.
It stays fresh for approximately 1-2 weeks.
Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination.
Freezing:
Freezer-safe up to 1 month (for best texture and flavor, can be kept longer if well-sealed) - thaw in the fridge and stir well before using.
Fresh is best: This spread is best when it's freshly made for optimal flavor and texture.
If your little one enjoyed these spinach banana pancakes, you might want to try a few more baby friendly Condiments from the blog. Jams and spreds are one of my favorite ways to add fruits and nourishing ingredients into meals that babies and toddlers happily eat.
Here are a few more reader favorites:
If you've been searching for a healthier chocolate spread that your little one will genuinely enjoy, this Hazelnut Spread for Toddlers is definitely worth trying. It's creamy, naturally sweetened, packed with wholesome ingredients, and incredibly versatile. Whether you're making toast for breakfast, spreading it over pancakes, or serving it with fruit for snack time, this homemade version is a delicious way to bring a little extra joy to everyday meals.
Once you make a batch, don't be surprised if the whole family starts reaching for it too!
If you try it, please rate it below to let me know how you liked it! I hope your little one enjoy this one as much as mine does. :)
This creamy hazelnut spread is made with roasted hazelnuts, date powder and cocoa. Naturally sweet, no refined sugar and perfect for babies 12 months+ and toddlers. A healthy homemade alternative to Nutella!"
Preheat your oven to 170°C / 340°F. (You can also pan roast them till they turn golden)
Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking tray. Make sure you keep an eye on them! Hazelnuts can go from perfect to burnt in seconds.
Roast for 10–12 minutes, until light golden brown.
Let the hazelnuts cool for a few minutes. Then, use a clean paper towel to rub off as much of the skins as possible. Don’t worry if some skins remain- it won’t affect the flavor.
Transfer to a blender or food processor. Blend the hazelnuts on their own until they break down into a smooth, runny hazelnut butter. This takes a few minutes - be patient and scrape the sides down as needed.