The 5 Best Substitutes for Hazelnuts

How many different ways can you cook with hazelnuts? The answer may surprise you.

Although often thought of as a flavor best suited for desserts, hazelnuts can actually be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

From pesto to salad dressing, there are endless possibilities for cooking with this flavorful nut.

And for those with nut allergies, there are plenty of substitutes that can be used in its place.

So whether you’re looking to add a new ingredient to your repertoire or simply need an allergy-friendly alternative, here are five of the best substitutes for hazelnuts.

What’s Hazelnut?

Though small, hazelnuts pack a powerful flavor and nutritional punch.

These round, brown nuts are native to Eurasia and North America and have been enjoyed by humans for thousands of years.

Archaeological evidence shows that hazelnuts were a key part of the human diet as far back as the Mesolithic period.

Today, hazelnuts are used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

They can be eaten on their own as a snack or used to add flavor and crunch to salads, main courses, and desserts.

Hazelnuts are also a popular ingredient in Nutella, an Italian chocolate-hazelnut spread that has become a global phenomenon.

So next time you’re looking for something new to try, don’t forget about the humble hazelnut.

Who knows? It might just become your new favorite food.

The 5 Best Substitutes for Hazelnuts

If you’re one of the many people who are allergic to hazelnuts or just can’t find them at your local grocery store, don’t worry.

There are plenty of substitutes that will work just as well in your recipe.

Here are the five best substitutes for hazelnuts:

1 – Almonds

Almonds are a type of nut that can be used as a substitute for hazelnuts.

They have a similar taste and texture but with a slightly sweeter flavor.

Almonds can be found in most grocery stores, and they can be used in a variety of recipes.

To substitute almonds for hazelnuts, simply use the same amount of almonds as you would hazelnuts.

The almonds will provide a similar taste and texture but with a slightly sweeter flavor.

With their versatility and sweetness, almonds are an excellent choice for those looking for a hazelnut substitute.

2 – Cashews

Cashews are a type of tree nut that is native to Brazil.

The cashew tree produces a fruit that contains a small, kidney-shaped seed.

The seeds are encased in a hard shell that is attached to the fruit.

Cashews are generally sold without their shells, as the shells contain an acidic oil that can irritate the skin.

Cashews are creamy and sweet, with a slightly earthy flavor.

They can be eaten on their own as a snack or used as an ingredient in sweet or savory dishes.

When used as an ingredient, cashews can be chopped, crushed, or ground into a paste.

They can be used as a substitute for hazelnuts in recipes.

3 – Pecans

Pecans are a delicious type of nut that can be used in many different recipes.

They have a sweet, rich flavor that goes well in both savory and sweet dishes.

Pecans also have an enjoyable crunchy texture.

If you are looking for a nut to substitute for hazelnuts, pecans are a great option.

They can be used in both baked goods and cooked dishes.

Pecans are versatile ingredient that can add flavor and texture to many different recipes.

4 – Walnuts

Walnuts are a type of tree nut that many people enjoy.

They have a unique flavor and texture that make them perfect for baking and cooking.

If you’re looking for a substitute for hazelnuts, walnuts are a great option.

They can be used in many of the same ways and provide a similar taste and texture.

When substituting walnuts for hazelnuts, it’s important to keep in mind that they are slightly more bitter than hazelnuts.

As a result, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar or sweetener in your recipe accordingly.

5 – Pistachios

Pistachios are a type of nut that originates from Asia.

They have a distinctive, slightly sweet taste and a firm yet slightly chewy texture.

Pistachios are often used as a substitute for hazelnuts in recipes, as they have a similar flavor profile.

When substituting pistachios for hazelnuts, it is important to keep the proportion of nuts to other ingredients the same.

Otherwise, the recipe may not turn out as desired.

Pistachios are an excellent source of healthy fats, proteins, and fiber.

They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and zinc.

Including pistachios in your diet may help to improve heart health, lower cholesterol levels, and boost cognitive function.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are a variety of different nuts that can be used as a substitute for hazelnuts.

Each nut has its own unique flavor and texture, so it’s important to choose one that will work well in your recipe.

Almonds, cashews, pecans, walnuts, and pistachios are all excellent choices for those looking for a hazelnut substitute.

With their versatility and flavor, these nuts can be used in many different recipes.