The spread aisle is one of the most competitive in fine food. Between industrial versions with questionable compositions and artisanal creations with carefully selected ingredients, the difference is considerable — both in taste and quality. Piedmont hazelnut, Sicilian pistachio, almond, cocoa: here's how to navigate and make the right choices for your morning toast, summer brunches, and family snacks.
Artisanal vs. industrial spread: what are the differences?
Artisanal spread distinguishes itself from its industrial counterpart by its composition, manufacturing method, and the quality of raw materials used. Produced in small quantities, without unnecessary additives or preservatives, it reflects attentive craftsmanship where each ingredient is chosen for its flavor and origin. Conversely, industrial versions often rely on substitute ingredients — lower quality vegetable oils, artificial flavors, excessive sugars — to reduce costs and extend shelf life.
The ingredient list, the primary quality indicator
Before any purchase, reading the ingredient list is essential. A good indicator: the nut (hazelnut, pistachio, almond) should be at the top of the list, a sign that it constitutes the majority of the composition. A quality hazelnut spread should contain only a few recognizable ingredients: hazelnuts, sugar, possibly cocoa. The shorter and more legible the list, the closer the product is to artisanal. Conversely, the presence of soy lecithin, flavorings, powdered milk, or palm oil at the top of the list is a warning sign.
Palm oil: why avoid it?
Palm oil is one of the most controversial ingredients in the food industry. Its widespread use in industrial spreads is due to its low cost and stable texture at room temperature. But its drawbacks are numerous: environmentally, its production is linked to deforestation and the destruction of fragile ecosystems. Taste-wise, it heavy texture and masks the natural aromas of nuts. Choosing a pistachio spread or an almond spread without palm oil is therefore both a gustatory and responsible choice.
Nut content, a decisive criterion
The proportion of nuts in a spread is directly linked to its aromatic intensity and quality. A serious artisanal spread generally contains between 40% and 70% nuts in its composition. Below this threshold, the taste is often compensated by artificial flavors or excessive sugar. For pastry professionals or amateurs who wish to cook with pure bases, 100% Piedmont hazelnut paste or 100% pistachio paste offer maximum nut concentration, without any additives.
The main families of artisanal spreads
The market for artisanal spreads has grown considerably in recent years. Hazelnut, pistachio, almond, cocoa, bergamot: each variety has its own gustatory characteristics and preferred uses. Here is an overview of the main families to help you choose.
Piedmont Hazelnut: the gourmet reference
Piedmont hazelnuts are considered among the best in the world. Grown in the Langhe region of Northern Italy, they are distinguished by their aromatic roundness, sweetness, and slightly roasted notes. A hazelnut spread made from these exceptional hazelnuts offers a creamy texture and a deep taste, far removed from industrial versions. For cooks and pastry chefs who wish to work with a pure base, the 1 kg format of 100% Piedmont hazelnut paste is an essential reference.
Pistachio: the growing trend
Pistachio has established itself as the flagship ingredient of recent seasons. From pastry shop windows to gourmet restaurant tables, its green color and delicate taste appeal to an increasingly wide audience. A quality pistachio spread should be made without palm oil and with a generous proportion of pistachios — ideally from Sicily or Bronte, renowned for their aromatic intensity. For professionals, 100% pistachio paste allows them to work with a pure, sugar-free base for custom creations.
Almond and cocoa: equally delicious alternatives
Almond offers a more subtle sweetness than hazelnut, with slightly buttery notes that pair perfectly with chocolate or vanilla. Almond spread is an ideal option for brunches and snacks, appreciated for its lightness on the palate. Cocoa hazelnut spread, meanwhile, revisits the great classic of the genre with Piedmont hazelnuts and quality cocoa — an artisanal version that has nothing to envy to major brands. And for curious palates, bergamot spread – Épicures Or 2024 offers a unique combination of the sweetness of nuts and the floral and tangy notes of Calabrian bergamot, awarded a gold medal at the Épicures 2024.
How to use artisanal spread daily?
An artisanal spread is not limited to morning toast. Its aromatic richness makes it a versatile ingredient, equally at home in a pastry recipe or on a tasting board. Here are some ideas for making the most of it.
For breakfast and snacks
This is the most natural use: spread on a slice of toasted country bread, on crepes or pancakes, artisanal spread transforms breakfast into a moment of genuine indulgence. In summer, it also accompanies terrace brunches, paired with fresh fruit, white cheese, or cereals. The set of 5 spreads allows you to vary the flavors throughout the week — hazelnut, pistachio, almond, cocoa, bergamot — to never fall into routine.
In cooking and pastry
Artisanal spreads are valuable allies in the kitchen. Incorporated into a cake batter, they bring an aromatic depth that artificial flavors cannot replicate. 100% almond paste integrates perfectly into financier, moelleux, or cream recipes. 100% pistachio paste colors and flavors ice creams, pastry creams, and macarons. As for 100% Piedmont hazelnut paste, it is the ideal base for making homemade praline or a quality ganache.
As a gourmet gift
An artisanal spread makes an original and appreciated gift, far from clichés. Paired with other Italian regional products, it creates a memorable gourmet gift box. The customizable gift box allows you to select flavors according to the recipient's tastes — a personalized touch that always makes an impact, whether for a birthday, end of vacation, or simply to please.
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