Baking with hazelnuts can elevate your pastries, cakes, and cookies to a whole new level of sophistication and taste. Hazelnuts, with their distinctive rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch, are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of baked goods. However, to fully harness their potential, it’s essential to understand how to properly prepare, store, and incorporate hazelnuts into your baking. In this article, we will delve into the world of hazelnut baking, exploring the benefits, techniques, and recipes that will make you a master hazelnut baker.
Introduction to Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are a type of tree nut that is native to Europe and Asia. They are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a popular choice for health-conscious bakers. Hazelnuts are also rich in antioxidants and have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health. When it comes to baking, hazelnuts can be used in a variety of forms, including whole, sliced, chopped, or ground into a fine meal.
Types of Hazelnuts
There are several types of hazelnuts available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. The most common types of hazelnuts include:
European hazelnuts, which are considered to be of the highest quality and have a rich, nutty flavor. They are the most expensive type of hazelnut and are often used in high-end baked goods.
American hazelnuts, which are native to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. They have a milder flavor than European hazelnuts and are often used in baked goods where a strong hazelnut flavor is not desired.
Turkish hazelnuts, which are known for their large size and rich, buttery flavor. They are often used in baked goods where a strong hazelnut flavor is desired.
Storing Hazelnuts
To ensure that your hazelnuts remain fresh and flavorful, it’s essential to store them properly. Hazelnuts can become rancid if they are exposed to heat, light, or moisture, so it’s best to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. Whole hazelnuts can be stored for up to 6 months in the refrigerator and up to 1 year in the freezer. Chopped or sliced hazelnuts, on the other hand, are more prone to becoming rancid and should be used within a few weeks of opening.
Preparing Hazelnuts for Baking
Before using hazelnuts in your baked goods, it’s essential to prepare them properly. This can include toasting, skinning, or grinding the hazelnuts, depending on the desired texture and flavor.
Toasting Hazelnuts
Toasting hazelnuts can enhance their flavor and texture, making them a delicious addition to baked goods. To toast hazelnuts, simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to over-toast the hazelnuts, as this can cause them to become bitter.
Skimming Hazelnuts
Some recipes may call for skinned hazelnuts, which can be achieved by rubbing the toasted hazelnuts in a towel to remove the skins. This can be a time-consuming process, but it’s essential for recipes where a smooth texture is desired.
Grinding Hazelnuts
Grinding hazelnuts can be done using a food processor or blender, and can be used to make hazelnut meal or hazelnut flour. Hazelnut meal is a popular ingredient in gluten-free baking, as it provides structure and texture to baked goods. To grind hazelnuts, simply process them in a food processor or blender until they reach the desired consistency.
Baking with Hazelnuts
Now that we’ve covered the basics of preparing hazelnuts, let’s dive into the world of hazelnut baking. Hazelnuts can be used in a variety of baked goods, including cakes, cookies, pastries, and breads.
Hazelnut Cakes and Tortes
Hazelnut cakes and tortes are a classic combination, with the rich flavor of hazelnuts pairing perfectly with chocolate or fruit. To make a hazelnut cake, simply substitute some of the flour with hazelnut meal and add chopped or sliced hazelnuts to the batter. Hazelnut cakes are best served fresh, as they can become dry and crumbly if stored for too long.
Hazelnut Cookies and Biscotti
Hazelnut cookies and biscotti are a delicious and easy way to incorporate hazelnuts into your baking. Simply add chopped or sliced hazelnuts to your favorite cookie or biscotti recipe, and bake until golden brown. Hazelnut cookies are best stored in an airtight container to preserve their texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Baking with hazelnuts can add a new level of sophistication and flavor to your baked goods. By understanding how to properly prepare, store, and incorporate hazelnuts into your baking, you can create delicious and unique treats that are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, hazelnuts are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. So why not give hazelnut baking a try? With their rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch, hazelnuts are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
| Hazelnut Type | Flavor | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| European Hazelnuts | Rich, nutty | Crunchy |
| American Hazelnuts | Mild, sweet | Soft |
| Turkish Hazelnuts | Buttery, rich | Crunchy |
- Always store hazelnuts in an airtight container to preserve their flavor and texture.
- Toast hazelnuts before using them in baked goods to enhance their flavor and texture.
By following these tips and techniques, you can unlock the full potential of hazelnuts in your baking and create delicious, unique treats that are sure to impress. Happy baking!
What are the health benefits of baking with hazelnuts?
Baking with hazelnuts can provide numerous health benefits due to their rich nutritional profile. Hazelnuts are an excellent source of vitamin E, copper, and magnesium, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. They are also high in healthy fats and protein, which can help to keep you full and satisfied. Additionally, hazelnuts contain a variety of antioxidants and phytochemicals that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to protect against certain diseases.
The health benefits of hazelnuts can be maximized by using them in baked goods in their whole or chopped form, rather than relying on hazelnut flour or other processed products. This is because the processing of hazelnuts can remove some of their natural nutrients and healthy fats. By incorporating whole or chopped hazelnuts into your baked goods, you can take advantage of their nutritional benefits while also adding texture and flavor to your creations. Furthermore, hazelnuts can be paired with other healthy ingredients, such as dark chocolate and fruit, to create delicious and nutritious treats that are perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
How do I store hazelnuts to maintain their freshness and flavor?
To maintain the freshness and flavor of hazelnuts, it is essential to store them properly. Hazelnuts can become rancid if they are exposed to heat, light, or moisture, which can cause them to lose their flavor and nutritional value. To prevent this, hazelnuts should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The container should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as ovens or radiators. It is also a good idea to store hazelnuts in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh for a longer period.
When storing hazelnuts, it is also important to consider their shelf life. Whole hazelnuts can be stored for up to six months at room temperature, while chopped or sliced hazelnuts should be used within a few weeks. If you plan to store hazelnuts for an extended period, it is best to freeze them. Frozen hazelnuts can be stored for up to a year and can be used in baked goods without thawing. By storing hazelnuts properly, you can maintain their freshness and flavor, ensuring that they add the best possible taste and texture to your baked creations.
What are some popular baked goods that feature hazelnuts as a main ingredient?
Hazelnuts are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of baked goods, from sweet treats like cakes and cookies to savory items like bread and granola. Some popular baked goods that feature hazelnuts as a main ingredient include hazelnut cake, hazelnut chocolate chip cookies, and hazelnut praline tart. Hazelnuts can also be used to make delicious breakfast items, such as hazelnut muffins and hazelnut coffee cake. Additionally, hazelnuts can be used to add texture and flavor to savory baked goods, such as hazelnut and rosemary focaccia or hazelnut and olive oil bread.
The rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including chocolate, fruit, and spices. This makes them a great addition to many different types of baked goods. For example, hazelnuts and chocolate are a classic combination that can be used to make delicious treats like hazelnut brownies or hazelnut chocolate chip cookies. Hazelnuts can also be paired with fruit, such as raspberries or cranberries, to make sweet and savory baked goods like hazelnut and raspberry tart or hazelnut and cranberry muffins. By experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations, you can create a wide range of delicious baked goods that feature hazelnuts as a main ingredient.
How do I toast hazelnuts to bring out their flavor and aroma?
Toasting hazelnuts is a simple process that can help to bring out their flavor and aroma. To toast hazelnuts, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned. It is essential to stir the hazelnuts frequently while they are toasting to ensure that they cook evenly and do not burn. You can also toast hazelnuts on the stovetop by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stirring frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned.
Toasting hazelnuts can help to enhance their flavor and aroma by bringing out their natural oils and intensifying their nutty flavor. This makes them a great addition to a variety of baked goods, from sweet treats like cakes and cookies to savory items like bread and granola. Toasted hazelnuts can also be used as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream, or as an ingredient in homemade granola or trail mix. By toasting hazelnuts, you can add depth and complexity to your baked goods and other creations, making them more delicious and satisfying.
Can I use hazelnut flour as a substitute for wheat flour in baked goods?
Hazelnut flour can be used as a substitute for wheat flour in some baked goods, but it is not always a direct substitution. Hazelnut flour is made from ground hazelnuts and has a nutty flavor and dense texture. It is high in healthy fats and protein, but low in carbohydrates, which can make it a good option for low-carb baked goods. However, hazelnut flour does not contain gluten, which can make it more challenging to work with in some recipes. This means that you may need to adjust the ratio of hazelnut flour to other ingredients and add xanthan gum or other binding agents to help the dough hold together.
When using hazelnut flour as a substitute for wheat flour, it is essential to consider the type of baked good you are making and the desired texture and flavor. Hazelnut flour works well in dense and moist baked goods, such as cakes and cookies, but may not be the best option for lighter and fluffier treats, such as bread and pastries. You can also blend hazelnut flour with other gluten-free flours, such as almond flour or coconut flour, to create a more balanced and versatile flour blend. By experimenting with different ratios and combinations of ingredients, you can create delicious and unique baked goods that feature hazelnut flour as a main ingredient.
How do I skin hazelnuts to use them in baked goods?
Skinning hazelnuts can be a bit tedious, but it is a necessary step to remove the bitter and papery skin that covers the nut. To skin hazelnuts, start by toasting them in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Then, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and wrap them in a clean kitchen towel. Let them steam for a few minutes, which will help to loosen the skin. Finally, rub the hazelnuts vigorously with the towel to remove the skin. You can also use a food processor or blender to skin hazelnuts, but be careful not to overprocess them, as this can create a messy and oily texture.
Skinned hazelnuts can be used in a variety of baked goods, from sweet treats like cakes and cookies to savory items like bread and granola. They have a rich, nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy texture that makes them a great addition to many different types of recipes. Skinned hazelnuts can also be used as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream, or as an ingredient in homemade granola or trail mix. By skinning hazelnuts, you can add depth and complexity to your baked goods and other creations, making them more delicious and satisfying. Additionally, skinned hazelnuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to six months, making them a convenient and versatile ingredient to have on hand.