Hazelnut oil is a culinary oil extracted from hazelnuts. It has a rich, nutty flavor and is commonly used in cooking, baking, and salad dressings, adding a distinct taste and aroma to dishes.
Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients and has some health-promoting properties you won’t want to miss out on!
What is hazelnut oil?
Hazelnut oil is made from—you guessed it—hazelnuts!
The oil is typically produced using a cold-press method to ensure that the delicate flavors and beneficial properties of the nuts are preserved.
Hazelnut oil has a delicate, nutty, and sweet flavor that’s often used in pastries and desserts.
How is hazelnut oil made?
Hazelnut oil is typically made through a process called cold pressing.
First, the hazelnuts are harvested and cleaned to remove any impurities.
Then, they are crushed or ground into a paste.
The paste is slowly and gently pressed using a hydraulic press or an expeller to extract the oil.
This method ensures that the oil is extracted without the use of high heat, preserving the flavor and nutritional properties of the oil.
The extracted oil is then filtered to remove any remaining solids before being bottled and ready for use.
Benefits of hazelnut oil
Not only does hazelnut oil have a high smoke point that’s great for cooking, but it also has a naturally sweet taste that can elevate pastries and desserts!
But there’s more to hazelnut oil than just taste. It’s rich in several nutrients, including vitamin E antioxidants, and healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are known to have positive effects on heart health.
Plus, some studies suggest that hazelnut oil may even help reduce the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease!
Hazelnut oil nutrition facts
| Serving size | 1 tbsp (15mL) |
| Calories | 120 |
| Polyunsaturated | 1.4 g |
| Monounsaturated | 10.6 g |
| Saturated | 1.0 g |
| Trans | 0 g |
| Total Fat | 13.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 |
The primary fat source is bolded.
How to cook and bake with hazelnut oil
Hazelnut oil has a high smoke point of around 430°F, so you can use it for sautéing, grilling, roasting, baking, or as a finishing oil.
Drizzle it over roasted veggies or cheeses like goat cheese, feta, or brie to enhance their creamy textures and complement their flavors (I know what I’m doing for my next charcuterie board…).
Hazelnut oil also makes an excellent dressing for salads, especially when combined with ingredients like mixed greens, roasted beets, goat cheese, and fresh berries.
Surprisingly, hazelnut oil also pairs wonderfully with fish, complimenting its delicate flavors.
If you have a sweet tooth like me, you’ll be delighted to know that hazelnut oil is a popular ingredient in pastries and desserts, thanks to its sweet flavor. From hazelnut-flavored macarons to decadent hazelnut brownies, the possibilities are endless!
Ways to use hazelnut oil
Here are some delicious ideas for ways to use hazelnut oil:
- Salad dressings
- Roasted vegetables
- Pan-seared fish with hazelnut oil glaze
- Tossed with pasta
- Hazelnut oil-roasted chicken with herbs
- Hazelnut oil-infused pastries and desserts
- Hazelnut oil granola or homemade energy bars
- Chocolates and nut butters
How to make hazelnut oil at home
Did you know you can even try making your own hazelnut oil at home? All you need is a lot of hazelnuts, a blender, and a cheesecloth.
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
- Spread the hazelnuts evenly on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven until they turn golden brown and aromatic.
- Allow the hazelnuts to cool, then transfer them to a food processor or blender.
- Process the hazelnuts until they form a smooth paste.
- Place the paste in a cheesecloth or nut milk bag and squeeze it tightly to extract the oil.
- Collect the oil in a clean jar or bottle, and you’re ready to enjoy your homemade hazelnut oil!
How to store hazelnut oil
To maintain the freshness and quality of your hazelnut oil, it’s important to store it properly.
The best way to store hazelnut oil is in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. A pantry or cupboard is an ideal spot.
When properly stored, unopened hazelnut oil can last for up to one year. Once opened, it’s best to use it within six months to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
What are the best substitutes for hazelnut oil?
If you don’t have hazelnut oil on hand, don’t worry! You have a few options…
Macadamia oil and walnut oil are the best substitutes for hazelnut oil. Macadamia oil is great for cooking or baking, while walnut oil works wonderfully for raw applications.
If you’re using high heat, pecan oil is your best bet!
FAQs
Hazelnut oil is great for adding a delicate nutty flavor to various dishes, from salads to pastries. It is also rich in good fats and may have potential benefits for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Hazelnut oil is sometimes referred to as filbert oil or cobnut oil.
Hazelnut oil is considered a healthier option due to its high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. It is also cholesterol-free and can be part of a heart-healthy diet.
Hazelnut oil is derived from hazelnuts, which are native to regions such as Turkey and Italy. However, hazelnut oil is now produced in various parts of the world.
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