🍯 Sweeteners

Vegan Nutella Substitute: Plant-Based Alternatives

Find the best vegan substitutes for Nutella that are completely plant-based. Discover dairy-free alternatives with similar taste and texture for all your cooking and baking needs.

Quick Answer

The best vegan Nutella substitutes are homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread with plant-based ingredients, almond butter + cocoa powder, or store-bought vegan chocolate spreads. These options are completely dairy-free and plant-based.

Best Substitutes

Homemade Vegan Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread

1:1

DIY vegan version made with roasted hazelnuts, cocoa powder, and plant-based sweeteners. Most similar to Nutella in taste and texture while being completely plant-based.

Best for:

spreadingbakingwhen you want authentic Nutella flavorcomplete control over ingredientsallergen-free version

Blend 1 cup roasted hazelnuts with 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, and 2-3 tbsp coconut oil until smooth. Use maple syrup or agave for sweetness if preferred.

Almond Butter + Cocoa Powder + Maple Syrup

1:1 (mix 3/4 cup almond butter with 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 2-3 tbsp maple syrup)

Plant-based combination using almond butter as the base. Rich in protein and healthy fats while providing similar creaminess to Nutella.

Best for:

spreadingbakinghigh-protein dietwhen you want almond flavornutrient-dense foods

Almond butter is naturally vegan and higher in protein than hazelnuts. Mix with cocoa powder and maple syrup for sweetness. Rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E.

Cashew Butter + Cocoa Powder + Coconut Oil

1:1 (mix 3/4 cup cashew butter with 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 1-2 tbsp coconut oil)

Creamy, naturally sweet spread using cashew butter. Provides similar creaminess to Nutella while being completely plant-based.

Best for:

spreadingbakingwhen you want cashew flavornaturally sweetcreamy texture

Cashew butter is naturally sweeter than other nut butters, so you need less added sweetener. Mix with cocoa powder and coconut oil for creaminess. Rich in healthy fats.

Tahini + Cocoa Powder + Date Paste

1:1 (mix 1/2 cup tahini with 1/4 cup cocoa powder and 1/4 cup date paste)

Sesame seed-based spread that's completely plant-based. Rich in calcium, iron, and healthy fats while providing a unique nutty flavor.

Best for:

spreadingwhen you want sesame flavorhigh-calcium dietiron-rich foodsnut-free option

Tahini is made from sesame seeds and is naturally vegan. Mix with cocoa powder and date paste for natural sweetness. Nut-free option that's rich in nutrients.

Store-Bought Vegan Chocolate Spread

1:1

Commercially available vegan chocolate spreads that are completely plant-based. Convenient option when you don't want to make your own.

Best for:

spreadingquick preparationwhen you want convenienceconsistent flavorbaking

Look for brands that are certified vegan and use plant-based ingredients. Popular options include Nocciolata, Justin's, and homemade-style spreads. Check labels for palm oil if that's a concern.

Cooking Tips

  • 💡For vegan substitutes, use plant-based sweeteners like maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar instead of honey
  • 💡When making homemade versions, blend ingredients until completely smooth for best texture
  • 💡The key to vegan Nutella substitutes is using plant-based ingredients and avoiding all animal products
  • 💡Common mistakes to avoid: using honey (not vegan), not blending thoroughly, using dairy-based ingredients
  • 💡For best results, store homemade vegan substitutes in the refrigerator and use within 1-2 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best vegan substitute for Nutella?

The best vegan substitute is homemade chocolate-hazelnut spread using plant-based ingredients. Blend 1 cup roasted hazelnuts with 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, and 2-3 tbsp coconut oil until smooth.

Can I make a vegan Nutella substitute at home?

Yes, blend 1 cup roasted hazelnuts with 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1/4 cup coconut sugar, and 2-3 tbsp coconut oil until smooth. Use maple syrup or agave for sweetness if preferred.

Is there a nut-free vegan Nutella substitute?

Yes, use tahini + cocoa powder + date paste, or avocado + cocoa powder + maple syrup. These options are completely plant-based and nut-free while providing similar creaminess and taste.

What's the best store-bought vegan Nutella substitute?

Look for brands like Nocciolata, Justin's, or other certified vegan chocolate spreads. Check labels to ensure they're completely plant-based and don't contain any animal products.

Can I use vegan Nutella substitutes in baking?

Yes, vegan substitutes work well in baking. Use 1:1 ratio for most recipes. Homemade versions may need to be at room temperature for best results in baking applications.

Summary

Find the best vegan substitutes for Nutella that are completely plant-based. Discover dairy-free alternatives with similar taste and texture for all your cooking and baking needs.