Understanding Hazelnut Flour
What is Hazelnut Flour?
Hazelnut flour is produced by grinding roasted hazelnuts into a fine powder. Unlike hazelnut meal, which may be coarser, hazelnut flour is typically more refined, making it ideal for baking and cooking. It preserves the nut's natural oils, giving baked goods a moist texture and rich flavor. Because it is gluten-free, it is an excellent alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Nutritional Benefits of Hazelnut Flour
Hazelnut flour is packed with nutrients, including:
- Healthy monounsaturated fats
- Protein
- Dietary fiber
- Vitamins such as vitamin E and B-vitamins
- Minerals like magnesium, copper, and manganese
These nutrients contribute to heart health, improved digestion, and overall well-being. Its high fat content also enhances the flavor and moisture of baked goods.
Basic Guidelines for Baking with Hazelnut Flour
- Substitution Ratio: Hazelnut flour can typically replace up to 25-50% of wheat flour in recipes. For gluten-free baking, it can sometimes replace all wheat flour, but adjustments to other ingredients may be necessary.
- Binding Agents: Because hazelnut flour lacks gluten, adding eggs, xanthan gum, or flaxseed meal can improve structure.
- Moisture Content: Baked goods with hazelnut flour tend to be more moist; reducing added fats or liquids may be needed depending on the recipe.
- Storage: Keep hazelnut flour in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent rancidity due to its high oil content.
Sweet Recipes Using Hazelnut Flour
1. Hazelnut Flour Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hazelnut flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine hazelnut flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla; mix until well combined.
4. Fold in chocolate chips.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
7. Allow to cool before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, add chopped hazelnuts or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
2. Hazelnut Flour Banana Bread
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ripe mashed bananas
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1 1/2 cups hazelnut flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk mashed bananas, honey, eggs, and coconut oil.
3. In a separate bowl, combine hazelnut flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in nuts or chocolate if desired.
6. Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool before slicing.
Tips:
- For a dairy-free version, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free.
3. Hazelnut Flour Pancakes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hazelnut flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Whisk eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla in a bowl.
2. Add hazelnut flour, baking powder, and salt; stir until smooth.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour batter into the skillet to form pancakes.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with fresh fruit, honey, or additional maple syrup.
Tips:
- Top with chopped nuts or a dollop of yogurt for extra richness.
Savory Recipes with Hazelnut Flour
1. Hazelnut Flour Crusted Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup hazelnut flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat oil for frying.
2. Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Dip each piece into beaten eggs, then coat with hazelnut flour.
4. For frying: cook in hot oil until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
For baking: place on a baking sheet lined with parchment and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard or aioli.
Tips:
- For extra crunch, add grated Parmesan cheese to the hazelnut flour mixture.
2. Hazelnut Flour Savory Muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups hazelnut flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped spinach
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar, feta, or goat cheese)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs and olive oil.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in spinach and cheese.
5. Pour batter into greased muffin tins.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
7. Cool slightly before removing from tins.
Tips:
- Customize with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Additional Tips for Cooking with Hazelnut Flour
- Experiment with flavors: Hazelnut flour pairs well with chocolate, berries, and spices.
- Combine with other flours: Mixing hazelnut flour with coconut flour or oat flour can improve texture and structure.
- Adjust sweetness: Since hazelnut flour has a natural sweetness, reduce sugar in recipes accordingly.
- Use in sauces and dressings: Finely ground hazelnut flour can be incorporated into sauces for added richness.
Conclusion
Hazelnut flour is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can elevate a variety of recipes with its distinctive flavor and moistening qualities. Whether you're baking cookies, bread, pancakes, or creating savory dishes like chicken tenders or muffins, hazelnut flour offers a gluten-free alternative that complements both sweet and savory profiles. By understanding its properties and experimenting with different recipes, you can enjoy a range of delicious, healthful dishes that showcase the unique qualities of hazelnut flour. Incorporate this ingredient into your culinary repertoire to add depth, flavor, and nutritional value to your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular gluten-free recipes using hazelnut flour?
Popular gluten-free recipes with hazelnut flour include hazelnut flour pancakes, cookies, muffins, and crusts for cheesecakes or tarts. Its rich nutty flavor adds a delicious twist to baked goods while making them suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can hazelnut flour be used as a substitute for almond flour in recipes?
Yes, hazelnut flour can often substitute almond flour in recipes, but it will impart a stronger nutty flavor and may affect the texture. It's best to adjust the quantities accordingly and consider the flavor profile you desire in your baked goods.
What are some tips for baking with hazelnut flour to prevent it from becoming too dense?
To prevent dense baked goods, combine hazelnut flour with lighter flours like rice or oat flour, avoid overmixing the batter, and incorporate leavening agents such as baking powder or baking soda. Additionally, ensuring proper measurement and not overworking the batter helps maintain a light texture.
Are there any specific dietary considerations when using hazelnut flour in recipes?
Hazelnut flour is high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. However, it is also allergenic for individuals with tree nut allergies. Those with nut allergies should avoid it, and people monitoring calorie intake should be mindful of its calorie density.
What are some creative uses of hazelnut flour beyond baking?
Beyond baking, hazelnut flour can be used to coat meats or vegetables for frying, thicken smoothies, make nut-based crusts for savory dishes, or added to energy balls and granola for extra flavor and nutrition.
