Serves 4
A popular spread, called Nutella, is made with hazelnuts and chocolate and is based on an old Italian recipe known as gianduja. Nutella isn’t vegan, however you can find vegan spreads made with hazelnuts and chocolate, such as Justin’s brand. If you prefer to make your own spread, look no further than this recipe in which a chocolate-hazelnut spread is the basis for these decadent paninis. Variations include swapping in another flavor of jam or adding sliced bananas to the sandwich. Use gluten-free bread to make this gluten-free.
Soy Free
Gluten-Free Option
Serves 4
Chocolate-HazeLnut Butter:
1 cup hazelnut butter
3 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Paninis:
8 slices good quality bread
2 tablespoons vegan butter, room temperature
1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves (optional)
Chocolate-hazelnut butter: In a food processor combine the hazelnut butter, sugar, cocoa, and vanilla. Process until well blended. It should be a spreadable consistency. If it is not, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of almond milk in the microwave, and add to the mixture. Process until smooth and well blended. Transfer the spread to a bowl and set aside.
Paninis: Butter the bread slices on 1 side with butter and place them on a flat work surface, butter side down. Spread 4 slices with 2 tablespoons of the chocolate-hazelnut butter. Spread the remaining slices with the jam (if using), and place them, jam side down, on top of the slices with the chocolate-hazelnut spread. Press them gently to flatten them slightly, buttered sides out.
In a panini press: Preheat a panini press to 375°F according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place a sandwich in the panini press and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown and nicely toasted, 3 to 5 minutes. Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
In a skillet: Preheat a cast iron or non stick pan over medium heat. Add your sandwich, then press a heavy pan on top to weigh it down. Cook until golden and crisp, 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Repeat with remaining sandwiches.
To serve: Cut the sandwiches in half crosswise. Serve immediately.