Sugar-Free Apple Nut Spread

This apple nut spread is a delightful and natural way to enjoy the sweetness of apples without any added sugar. With ground hazelnuts and a hint of cinnamon, this spread works perfectly on toast, in oatmeal, or as a healthy snack. It’s a fantastic option for families, especially those looking for wholesome spreads that pack flavor while being easy to prepare. Notably, this nut spread boasts the natural sweetness from the apples, making it a well-balanced choice.

Why This Recipe Is Helpful

• It’s simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
• Contains no added sugars, offering a sweet alternative to conventional spreads.
• Versatile enough to be used in various dishes, from breakfast to snacks.

Best For

This recipe is great for anyone who enjoys fruit-based spreads or is looking for a healthier alternative to sugary jams.

Be Careful If

Those managing nut allergies should avoid this recipe due to the ground hazelnuts.

Ingredients

• 600 g (about 21 oz) sweet apples
• 80 g (about 2.8 oz) ground hazelnuts
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
• 80 ml (about 1/3 cup) water

Ingredient Notes

• Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best for a naturally sweet spread.
• Ground hazelnuts can be substituted with almond flour for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust the amount of cinnamon based on personal preference.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Peeler
• Cutting board
• Pot with a lid
• Blender or food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Jar for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
2. In a pot, combine the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice. Cover and cook over medium heat until the apples are soft, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Once soft, remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring the mixture to a blender.
4. Puree the apple mixture until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in the ground hazelnuts and cinnamon until well combined.
6. Return the mixture to the pot and reduce over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the spread thickens and becomes spreadable.
7. Pour the warm mixture into a jar and let it cool before refrigerating. Use chilled.

Pro Tips

• For a smoother texture, blend the mixture longer after cooking.
• Taste before serving; you can add a pinch more cinnamon or a bit more lemon juice if desired.
• To achieve a more spreadable consistency, ensure to reduce the mixture adequately during the final cooking step.

Lighter Swaps

The original version works best as it leverages the natural sweetness of the apples and the nuttiness of hazelnuts for flavor.

Common Mistakes

• Not cooking the apples long enough, which can lead to a chunky texture.
• Failing to stir the mixture during the reduction step can cause it to stick to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this spread on whole grain toast, atop pancakes, or mixed into yogurt for a delightful breakfast treat.

Storage Instructions

Store the apple nut spread in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Reheating Tips

Reheating is not necessary; enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Estimate

Calories: 65
Protein: 1.4 g
Carbs: 12 g
Fat: 2 g

Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.

Recipe Summary

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: About 10 (1 tablespoon each)
Cuisine: American
Course: Snack or Spread
Calories: 65

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without hazelnuts?
Yes, you can substitute ground hazelnuts with other nuts or seeds, or omit them entirely for a pure apple spread.

Is this spread suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This spread features only natural ingredients and can be a healthy addition to their diet.

How can I use this spread?
It’s delicious on toast, in oatmeal, or even as a topping for pancakes and waffles.

This apple nut spread is a must-try if you’re looking for a fresh, healthy alternative to store-bought spreads. It’s easy to prepare and brings a taste of homemade goodness to your table.

Print Recipe

Apple Nut Spread

A delightful and natural apple nut spread made with sweet apples and ground hazelnuts, perfect for toast, oatmeal, or as a healthy snack.

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Total Time30 minutes mins

Course: Snack, Spread

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Apple Spread, Fruit Spread, Healthy Snack, No Added Sugar, Nut Spread

Servings: 10 servings

Calories: 65kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 600 g 600 g sweet apples Sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp work best for a naturally sweet spread.
• 80 g 80 g ground hazelnuts Can be substituted with almond flour for a different flavor profile.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp ground cinnamon Adjust based on personal preference.
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 80 ml 80 ml water

Instructions

Preparation

• Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces.
• In a pot, combine the chopped apples, water, and lemon juice. Cover and cook over medium heat until the apples are soft, about 10-15 minutes.
• Once soft, remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring the mixture to a blender.
• Puree the apple mixture until smooth and creamy.
• Stir in the ground hazelnuts and cinnamon until well combined.
• Return the mixture to the pot and reduce over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until the spread thickens and becomes spreadable.
• Pour the warm mixture into a jar and let it cool before refrigerating. Use chilled.

Notes

For a smoother texture, blend the mixture longer after cooking. Taste before serving; you can add a pinch more cinnamon or a bit more lemon juice if desired. Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.