2 tbsp Hazelnut spread contains 200 calories, making it a high-calorie food. Hazelnut spread is a popular topping for toast, pancakes, and waffles, as well as a key ingredient in some dessert recipes. In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of hazelnut spread, its nutritional content, and some alternatives for those watching their calories.

Hazelnut spread is made from ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, sugar, and oil. It is high in fat and sugar, which are the main contributors to its calorie count. However, it also contains fiber, protein, and some vitamins and minerals, making it a decent source of nutrition in moderation.

When consumed in moderation, hazelnut spread can be a tasty addition to a balanced diet. It's important to be mindful of portion sizes and alternate between healthier options. Let's take a closer look at why hazelnut spread is high in calories and how it can fit into your diet.

What is Hazelnut Spread?

Hazelnut spread is a sweet spread made from ground hazelnuts, cocoa powder, sugar, and oil. It is similar to peanut butter in texture but has a distinct chocolatey flavor. It is a popular topping for toast, pancakes, and waffles, as well as a key ingredient in some dessert recipes. Nutella is the most well-known brand of hazelnut spread, but there are also many other brands available. Some brands may contain different ingredients or more/less sugar and fat.

Why is Hazelnut Spread High in Calories?

Hazelnut spread is high in calories due to its high content of fat and sugar. Just 2 tablespoons of hazelnut spread contain 200 calories, which is about 10% of your daily calorie needs. However, the fat in hazelnut spread is mostly unsaturated (the healthy kind), which can be beneficial for heart health. The sugar content, however, can be harmful if consumed in excess.

Hazelnut Spread: A Guilty Pleasure

Hazelnut spread can be considered a guilty pleasure due to its high calorie and sugar content. While it can be a tasty addition to certain foods, consuming it in excess can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems. It's important to enjoy hazelnut spread in moderation and pair it with healthier options such as fruit or whole-grain bread.

Hazelnut Spread as a Dessert Topping

Hazelnut spread is a popular ingredient in many dessert recipes due to its rich, chocolatey flavor. It can be used as a frosting for cakes and cupcakes, or as a filling for cookies and pastries. However, these desserts are often high in sugar and calories, so it's best to consume them in moderation.

Hazelnut Spread in Breakfast Recipes

Hazelnut spread is a tasty addition to many breakfast foods such as pancakes, waffles, and toast. It can also be swirled into oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies for added flavor. However, these foods can quickly become high in calories and sugar if too much hazelnut spread is used.

Hazelnut Spread and Weight Gain

Hazelnut spread can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large amounts. This is because it is high in calories and sugar, which can lead to excess calorie intake. However, consuming hazelnut spread in moderation and pairing it with healthier options can help prevent weight gain.

Hazelnut Spread vs Peanut Butter: Which is Healthier?

Both hazelnut spread and peanut butter are nutritious options when consumed in moderation. Hazelnut spread is higher in sugar and lower in protein than peanut butter, but it also contains more fiber and some vitamins and minerals. Peanut butter is higher in protein and lower in sugar than hazelnut spread, but it is also higher in calories. When choosing between the two, it's best to consider your individual nutritional needs and taste preferences.

Hazelnut Spread for Macro Counting

Hazelnut spread can be used as part of a macro counting diet, but it's important to be mindful of your portion sizes. Two tablespoons of hazelnut spread contain about 12 grams of fat and 21 grams of carbs, which can quickly add up if you're not careful. However, hazelnut spread can also be a good source of healthy fats and carbohydrates if consumed in moderation.

Hazelnut Spread Alternatives

For those looking to cut back on their hazelnut spread intake, there are several alternatives available. Almond butter, sunflower seed butter, and peanut butter are all tasty options that are higher in protein and lower in sugar than hazelnut spread. Other alternatives include fruit preserves, honey, or cinnamon as a topping for toast or waffles. Additionally, using a smaller amount of hazelnut spread or diluting it with milk or yogurt can help reduce its overall calorie content.

Hazelnut Spread and Portion Control

Portion control is key when it comes to consuming hazelnut spread. It's easy to overdo it when spooning the spread onto toast or using it as a dip for fruit. Measuring out a tablespoon or two can help you stay within your daily calorie goals and avoid excess sugar intake. Additionally, pairing hazelnut spread with healthier options such as whole-grain bread or fruit can help balance out its calorie content and add more nutrition to your meal.