Introduction
Chocolate and hazelnut share an undeniable chemistry, creating a flavor duo that feels both comforting and indulgent. What if you could freeze that luscious pairing into a spoonable treat? With Ninja Creami, you can.
This recipe transforms familiar ingredients—cream, cocoa, hazelnuts—into a creamy gelato that elevates your dessert game. It balances deep chocolate richness with nutty warmth, all crafted right in your kitchen.
Curious how simple ingredients can lead to a gourmet-worthy frozen dessert? Let’s explore the step-by-step secrets behind this dreamy gelato.
1. Why Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato?
Why gelato instead of ice cream? And why pair it with hazelnut?
Gelato is denser than traditional ice cream, offering a silkier mouthfeel and purer flavor profile. Chocolate hazelnut mimics classic confections like Nutella, but without the refined sugars or artificial preservatives. You get authentic taste, velvety texture, and homemade goodness.
Plus, homemade treats give you control—over ingredients, sweetness, and richness.
2. Why Use Ninja Creami for Gelato?
Can’t I just blend and freeze? Sure, but it won’t have the texture or indulgence of proper gelato.
The Ninja Creami transforms a frozen base into creamy perfection using precision spinning. You can re-spin for consistency, fold in mix-ins gently, and refresh leftovers without ice crystals. It’s effortless craftsmanship—from scoopable texture to flavor retention.
3. Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this gelato shine:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole milk | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Heavy cream | 3/4 cup (180 ml) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup (100 g) |
| Hazel paste or finely ground toasted hazelnuts | 1/2 cup (120 g) |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1/4 cup (25 g) |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 2 Tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Pinch of salt | to taste |
| Optional add-in: chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chips | 1/4 cup |
You can use Nutella in place of separate chocolate and hazelnut—as long as you balance sugar and cocoa content.
4. Toasting and Grinding Hazelnuts
Why process hazelnuts instead of using ready-made paste?
Freshly toasted and ground nuts add maximum flavor and control. Here’s how:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Spread ½ cup raw hazelnuts on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Remove skins by rubbing nuts in a towel while warm.
- Let cool, then grind finely until paste-like texture.
This DIY nut paste brings authentic flavor in every scoop.
5. Preparing the Gelato Base
Let’s build your creamy foundation:
- Whisk sugar, cocoa, and salt into milk until fully dissolved.
- Stir in cream, hazelnut paste, condensed milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Taste—should be cocoa-rich with nutty depth. Adjust sugar or paste if needed.
- Pour mixture into Ninja Creami pint container, leaving room at the top.
- Seal and freeze flat for 24 hours.
Freezing fully ensures optimal texture during the Creami spin.
6. Spinning the Magic in Ninja Creami
Here’s where your gelato comes to life:
- Insert frozen pint into Creami bowl and lock blade lid.
- Select the Gelato function and start spinning.
- After the cycle, check texture—if crumbly, add 1–2 Tbsp milk and use Re-Spin.
- Repeat as needed until smooth.
Once it’s creamy, you’re ready for mix-ins or swirl-ins.
7. Adding Mix-Ins & Texture
Do you crave crunch or extra bite in your gelato? This is where you go next.
- After the first spin, create a small well in the gelato.
- Add chopped hazelnuts or chocolate chips into the center.
- Reinsert and select Mix-In mode for even distribution.
This method ensures inclusions remain intact and well-dispersed.
8. Flavor and Texture Expectations
What should you taste with your first spoonful?
- Silk smooth gelato with a creamy mouthfeel
- Bold cocoa flavor balanced by natural hazelnut sweetness
- Crunch from your chosen mix-ins
- Balanced sweetness without being overly rich
This gelato captures the elegance of a gourmet dessert.
9. Advanced Flavor Twists
Want to make this flavor truly your own? Here are some ideas:
- Mocha Gelato: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder to the base.
- Salted Chocolate Hazelnut: Sprinkle flaky sea salt after swirl.
- White Chocolate Twist: Fold in chopped white chocolate or drizzle on top.
- Nutella Burst: Add 2–3 Tbsp Nutella mid-spin, then re-spin briefly.
- Vegan Gelato: Use coconut milk and coconut cream instead of dairy.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to discover your perfect flavor.
Video:
10. Storage and Refresher Tips
Want to make this gelato ahead of a gathering? Or store it for days? Here’s your guide:
- Unspun Base: Freezes well for up to 2 weeks before spinning.
- Spun Gelato: Best within 48 hours. Keep it in the original Creami pint with a secure lid.
- To Refresh: Let sit for ~5 minutes at room temperature, then re-spin using Ice Cream or Gelato setting.
This ensures every scoop remains as smooth and creamy as the first.
11. Nutritional Snapshot
Enjoy it as a refined treat. Approximate per ½-pint serving:
- Calories: ~350–400 kcal
- Fat: ~22 g
- Sugar: ~25–30 g
- Protein: ~5 g
These values may vary based on ingredient brands and mix-ins.
12. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I double the batch?
A: Yes—just use two pints and process each separately for best texture.
Q: My gelato tastes grainy—what went wrong?
A: Make sure your hazelnut paste is ultra-smooth and your base was well mixed. A re-spin can help smooth minor graininess.
Q: Is gelato healthier than ice cream?
A: Generally yes—it uses less fat and air, so you get more flavor per bite, but calories can be comparable.
Q: Can kids eat this?
A: Absolutely. This recipe contains no alcohol and can be made dairy-free if needed.
13. Serving & Presentation Ideas
Make your homemade gelato as beautiful as it is delicious:
- Scoop into cold bowls and top with toasted hazelnuts.
- Serve in elegant glasses with a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over the top.
- Present with biscotti or fresh berries on the side.
Make dessert feel like a café treat at home.
14. Why This Recipe Works Every Time
- You control every ingredient—no stabilizers or artificial flavoring
- The Ninja Creami gives superior texture in minutes
- It’s easy to customize to your taste or dietary needs
- You get high-quality gelato at a fraction of store-bought cost
This recipe becomes part dessert, part experience.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Hazelnut Gelato made in the Ninja Creami brings decadent flavor, creamy texture, and easy prep into one bowl—or cone. Whether you’re a traditionalist or love experimenting with twists, this recipe adapts beautifully to your taste.
From grind-your-own nuts to swirl-in Nutella, every step puts control in your hands. With a perfect balance of chocolate depth and nutty warmth, served creamily cold, it becomes a go-to treat for any occasion.
