Nutella, the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread, has become a staple in many American households due to its delicious taste and versatile use in recipes, snacks, and breakfasts.
We all want spread to last long especially when brought in bulk. So what do you do to make this happen? “Does Nutella need to be refrigerated?”
This blog explores this query in depth, alongside other related topics like Nutella’s shelf life, nutritional profile, and usage tips.
Does Nutella Need to Be Refrigerated?
According to Ferrero, the maker of Nutella, refrigeration is not necessary. In fact, they recommend against it. Nutella should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 64°F and 72°F (18°C to 22°C), to maintain its creamy, spreadable consistency. Storing it in the fridge can cause the spread to harden, making it difficult to use.
What is Nutella Made Of?
Nutella includes sugar, palm oil, hazelnuts (13%), skim milk powder, fat-reduced cocoa, lecithin as an emulsifier, and vanillin for flavor. The high sugar and palm oil content are what give Nutella its long shelf life at room temperature.
Does Nutella Go Bad if Not Refrigerated?
Nutella does not go bad quickly if stored correctly at room temperature. An opened jar can last up to 12 months when kept in a cool, dry place away from heat and light.
This longevity is due to its high sugar content and the preservatives present, which create an environment not conducive to bacterial growth.
Signs of Spoilage
Nutella can go bad under improper storage. Look for visual changes like oil separation, a change in color, or an off smell.
If the spread appears oily, it’s a sign of ingredient separation due to heat exposure rather than spoilage, but it’s still an indicator to use it sooner rather than later.
How Long Does Nutella Need to be Refrigerated?
While refrigeration is not recommended, if Nutella is accidentally refrigerated, you’re looking at a different scenario:
Temporary Hardening
If refrigerated, Nutella will harden. To use it, simply take it out and let it return to room temperature, which can take several hours depending on the amount of Nutella and the room temperature.
Shelf Life Impact
Refrigeration does not extend Nutella’s shelf life; in fact, it might cause the spread to lose some of its rich flavors and creamy texture. Once you bring it back to room temperature, consume it within a reasonable time frame since the texture might not be as consistent post-refrigeration.
Is Nutella Good or Bad for You?
Nutella is high in sugar and saturated fats, which means it should be consumed in moderation:
- Sugar: A two-tablespoon serving contains about 21 grams of sugar.
- Fat: Much of the fat content comes from palm oil, which is high in saturated fats.
- Protein: Nutella does contain some protein from the hazelnuts and milk powder, but not in significant amounts (about 2 grams per serving).
While delicious, it’s not considered a health food due to its high caloric content and sugar. However, it does offer some benefits like antioxidants from cocoa and nutrients from hazelnuts.
Why Does My Nutella Have Oil on Top?
Oil separation is common in Nutella due to the palm oil content. This is not an indication of spoilage but rather a sign that it’s been exposed to heat or has been stored for a long time. Simply stir the oil back into the spread before use.
What is the Best Thing to Put Nutella On?
Nutella can be used on:
- Toast or Bread: The classic choice.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Adds a sweet touch to breakfast.
- Fruits: Bananas or strawberries pair wonderfully.
- Desserts: Use as a filling or topping for cakes, crepes, or ice cream.
How to bake using Nutella
1. Nutella Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup Nutella
- 1 egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Process
- Mix: Combine Nutella and egg until smooth. Add flour and mix until just incorporated; the dough will be very thick.
- Shape: Scoop into balls or use a cookie scoop, place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Bake: At 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. They will look underdone but will set as they cool.
2. Nutella Swirl Cake
Ingredients
- Standard cake batter (your choice of recipe)
- 1/2 to 1 cup Nutella
- Process:
- Prepare Batter: Make your cake batter as per your recipe or box instructions.
- Layer: Pour half the batter into a greased cake pan.
- Swirl Nutella: Dollop spoonfuls of Nutella over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then use a knife or toothpick to swirl the Nutella through the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Follow your cake recipe’s baking instructions, usually about 30-35 minutes for a standard cake.
Tips for Baking with Nutella
- Consistency: Nutella can make baked goods denser. To combat this, you might need to add a bit more leavening agent or reduce the amount of flour.
- Heat: Be mindful that Nutella can melt and spread during baking, so keep an eye on your oven to avoid over-baking or burning.
- Cooling: Always let baked goods with Nutella cool before handling or serving as they firm up and become easier to manage.
How to make a homemade Nutella
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar or a sugar substitute for a sugar-free version
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon hazelnut or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (for a richer flavor)
Step-by-Step Process
1. Roast Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast for about 10-15 minutes until they’re fragrant and skins blister.
2. Remove Skins
Let hazelnuts cool slightly, then rub them in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much skin as possible.
3. Grind Hazelnuts
Place the hazelnuts in a food processor or high-speed blender. Process until they turn into a smooth butter, which might take about 5-10 minutes. Scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Add Ingredients
Add the cocoa powder, sugar or sugar substitute, oil, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth. If using chocolate chips, melt them gently and mix into the blend for a creamier texture.
5. Adjust Consistency
If too thick, you can add a bit more oil. If too runny, consider adding more cocoa or hazelnuts.
6. Store
Transfer to a jar and store at room temperature. It will thicken as it cools.
Dairy-Free Nutella
- Substitute any dairy-free chocolate for the chocolate chips and use almond milk or another plant-based milk if you need to thin it down.
Sugar-Free Nutella
- Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of powdered sugar. Adjust quantities to taste since these sweeteners are much sweeter than sugar.
Healthier Nutella Alternatives
a) Almond Butter with Cocoa:
Mix almond butter with unsweetened cocoa powder and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This can offer a similar taste with less saturated fat and more fiber.
b) Cashew Butter Spread
Cashews can be blended into a creamy butter and mixed with raw cacao and dates for sweetness. This provides a different but tasty flavor profile with potential health benefits from cashews.
c) Sunflower Seed Spread
For those with nut allergies, sunflower seeds can be turned into a butter, mixed with cocoa for a chocolatey spread that’s free from tree nuts.
Can You Freeze Nutella?
Freezing Nutella is possible but not recommended for regular use since it can affect texture and taste. If you must, use small portions in an airtight container, and be ready to stir it well after thawing due to oil separation.
Is Hazelnut Spread Healthier Than Peanut Butter?
Comparison
Calories and Fat
Both have similar calorie counts per serving, but peanut butter generally contains less sugar and more protein, making it a potentially healthier option if you’re looking for a more nutritious spread.
Nutritional Benefits
Peanut butter is rich in monounsaturated fats and contains more fiber. Hazelnut spread like Nutella, however, can offer unique antioxidants from cocoa.
Dietary Restrictions
Nutella contains dairy, making it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet, whereas peanut butter is naturally dairy-free.
Why Can’t You Refrigerate Hazelnut Spread?
Hazelnut spreads, like Nutella, contain fats that solidify when cold. Refrigeration hardens these fats, altering the spread’s texture to something more akin to a block of chocolate rather than a spread.
This change is undesirable for both taste and application, as the spread should be creamy and easy to use.
Should I Refrigerate Peanut Butter?
Unlike Nutella, peanut butter can be refrigerated if you prefer a firmer texture, but it’s not necessary. Natural peanut butter, which lacks stabilizers, might benefit from refrigeration to slow oil separation. However, commercial peanut butters are shelf-stable and can be stored in a pantry.
FAQs
Can I Store Nutella Without Fridge?
Yes, store Nutella at room temperature in a pantry or cupboard. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed to avoid contamination and moisture ingress.
Where to Store Peanut Butter?
Store both Nutella and peanut butter in a cool, dry place like a pantry. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent oil separation and flavor degradation.
Does Nutella Have Protein?
While Nutella does have protein, it’s not significant. You’ll get about 2 grams of protein per two tablespoons, which is modest compared to other spreads like peanut butter.
Does Nutella Go Bad in Fridge?
In the fridge, Nutella doesn’t spoil faster, but it hardens significantly, which might lead to a less enjoyable experience. It’s not recommended for long-term storage.
Can You Microwave Nutella?
Yes, you can gently warm Nutella in the microwave for about 10-20 seconds to make it more spreadable or to drizzle over desserts, but avoid overheating as it can burn or alter the taste.
How to Check the Expiry Date of Nutella?
Nutella jars will have a “best by” date printed on them. This date indicates the period during which the product retains its optimal quality. It’s safe to eat for months after this date if stored correctly, but the taste might not be as fresh.
How to Unfreeze Nutella?
If frozen, let Nutella thaw at room temperature. Stir vigorously to reincorporate any separated oils.
Can You Eat Nutella Cold?
While you can eat Nutella cold, its texture will be less appealing for spreading. However, some people prefer this texture for a different taste experience, akin to a chocolate ganache.
Conclusion
Nutella does not need refrigeration and should be enjoyed at room temperature to maintain its best qualities. While it offers a unique taste and can be part of a varied diet, moderation is key due to its high sugar and fat content.
For those exploring storage options, remember that while peanut butter can withstand refrigeration, Nutella thrives best in the pantry. With these tips and information, you can enjoy Nutella in all its creamy glory while keeping it fresh and tasty for as long as possible.