Hazelnuts are back in season! You’ve known about hazelnuts your whole life. Maybe you’ve had them in certain dishes or enjoyed them in chocolates. And you surely know about Nutella, the favorite spread made with hazelnuts and chocolate.
Filbert vs. Hazelnuts
Have you ever wondered where hazelnuts come from? And have you ever heard a cobnut? What about filbert nuts? If you love hazelnuts, cobnuts and filbert nuts are two terms that you need to know! This article uncovers the similarities and differences between a filbert nut, a cobnut, and a hazelnut.
What are Filberts?
Filberts, also commonly known as a hazelnut, is the edible nut produced by certain species of hazel trees. Filberts have a smooth, rounded shape, a rich, slightly sweet flavor, and a naturally crisp texture, making them popular for snacking, baking, confectionery, nut butters, and other food products. Like other tree nuts, filberts provide healthy fats, plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
While the terms filbert and hazelnut are often used interchangeably, some regions use “filbert” to describe specific varieties of hazelnuts.
Is Hazel the Same as Hazelnut?
The filbert nut, cobnut, and hazelnut are all part of the Corylus genus, or in other words, the hazel plant. These are deciduous trees and shrubs that are native to temperate, northern hemisphere climates. The nuts from all hazel plants are edible!
Filberts or Hazelnuts: Is it the Same Thing?
A filbert nut is actually the same thing as a hazelnut. The word “filbert” started commonly being used for both hazel plants and hazelnuts in Europe hundreds of years ago. This name probably came from the feast of St Philibert, which was held in late August when the hazelnuts were starting to ripen. For those that celebrated, it probably seemed obvious to name the nuts after this feast.
What is a cobnut?
Simply put, a cobnut is just a fresh hazelnut. They are sold when they’re fresh and green or gold. They’re usually eaten raw so that you can savor the sweet and juicy flavor.
Get Fresh, Organic Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts, filbert nuts, and cobnuts are all part of the same family. They all come from the hazel plant. Filbert nut was the name given to the hazelnut way back in history, so the two terms can be used interchangeably. And finally, a cobnut is a sweet, juicy hazelnut that’s eaten right after it’s harvested.
Hazelnuts (or filbert nuts) and cobnuts are usually ready to harvest in September and October. Here at Handy Farms, we are enjoying harvesting these delicious nuts now. Whether you’ve enjoyed hazelnuts for years or are discovering them for the first time, we hope you find a new favorite way to enjoy their delicious flavor and satisfying crunch!
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