Quick answer
If you prefer a hazelnut spread with a satisfying crunch and a more pronounced nutty flavor, choose GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread; if you want a smoother, creamier spread that melts easily, stick with Nutella.
Texture and flavor: crunch vs smooth
The most obvious difference is texture. GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread is made with Italian hazelnuts and features a crunchy texture that adds a pleasant bite to toast, pancakes, or even a spoonful straight from the jar. Nutella, on the other hand, is known for its smooth, creamy consistency that spreads like butter and blends seamlessly into recipes.
If you enjoy a nutty, textured spread that feels more like a real hazelnut product, GAIL's option delivers that authentic crunch. But if you're used to the silky, uniform spread of Nutella, the crunchy bits might take some getting used to.
Price and value: what you get for your money
Price can be a deciding factor when choosing a pantry staple. GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread is currently priced at $6.40, with a catalog comparison price of $10.00, offering a significant saving. Nutella's price varies by retailer and jar size, but it's often sold at a similar or lower per-ounce cost, especially in larger containers.
However, value isn't just about price per gram. If you appreciate the crunch and the Italian hazelnut flavor, the GAIL's spread might offer better value for your taste. For those who use hazelnut spread primarily as a baking ingredient or a quick topping, the smoother Nutella might be more versatile.
Ingredients and brand philosophy
GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread is made with Italian hazelnuts and is created by their partners at Islands. It's positioned as a pantry staple for spreading, emphasizing a nutty, crunchy texture. Nutella, a global brand, uses a blend of hazelnuts, cocoa, and skim milk, with a recipe that prioritizes a creamy, chocolate-forward taste.
If you're looking for a spread that highlights the hazelnut itself, GAIL's is the more straightforward choice. If you want a chocolate-hazelnut flavor that's more uniform, Nutella's recipe is designed for that.
How to choose between crunchy hazelnut spread and Nutella
- For toast and simple spreads: If you're spreading on toast or crackers and want a satisfying crunch, choose GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread. If you prefer a smooth, even layer that spreads easily, Nutella is the better option. Consider what texture you enjoy on your morning toast.
- For baking and recipes: Nutella's smooth consistency makes it easier to incorporate into batters, fillings, and sauces. GAIL's crunchy version can add texture to cookies or brownies, but it won't melt as smoothly. For baking, smoothness often matters more than crunch.
- For value and ingredient focus: GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread is priced at $6.40 compared to a catalog price of $10.00, offering a discount. If you value a hazelnut-forward flavor with Italian hazelnuts, this is a great choice. Nutella may be more familiar and widely available, but it doesn't emphasize the hazelnut as much. Check the price per jar and decide if the crunch is worth it.
Product facts
-
Crunchy Hazelnut Spread: GAIL's Crunchy Hazelnut Spread is a sweet spread made with Italian hazelnuts and has a crunchy texture. This means you get a genuine nutty crunch in every bite, which is perfect for those who want texture in their spread.
Crunchy Hazelnut Spread
Which spread fits you?
Best for
- Those who love a crunchy texture in their spreads
- Fans of nutty, hazelnut-forward flavors
- Shoppers looking for a value-priced pantry spread
Not for
- Those who prefer a smooth, creamy spread
- Bakers who need a spread that melts evenly into recipes