Hazelnut Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

Oh, the hazelnut latte – just saying those words conjures up cozy vibes, warm mornings, and that delicious, nutty aroma that feels like a comforting hug in a cup. If you’re someone who lives for specialty coffee drinks but hates the idea of trudging to a café every single day, making your own hazelnut latte at home is a game changer.

Imagine this: silky steamed milk swirling with rich espresso, kissed by the unmistakable toasted, buttery notes of hazelnut syrup. It’s a perfect balance of bold and sweet, creamy and nutty, that can easily become your new morning ritual or afternoon pick-me-up.

Plus, making it yourself means you get to tweak the sweetness, the strength, and the creaminess exactly how you like it-no judgment from the barista here!

Ingredients For Hazelnut Latte Recipe

Before we jump into the magic-making process, let’s talk ingredients. Simplicity is key here, but quality absolutely matters. Here’s what you’ll need to craft the perfect cup:

  • Fresh espresso (about 1-2 shots, depending on how strong you want it)

    • Pro tip: If you don’t have an espresso machine, strong brewed coffee works too, but espresso is where that authentic latte magic begins.
  • Milk (about 8 oz, your choice – whole milk for creaminess, oat milk or almond milk for dairy-free options)
  • Hazelnut syrup (2-3 tablespoons)

    • You can find this bottled in most grocery stores or coffee shops. Look for natural or organic options if you want fewer artificial flavors.
  • Sweetener (optional, like sugar, honey, or maple syrup)

    • Some hazelnut syrups are already sweetened, so taste before adding extra!
  • Whipped cream (optional but highly recommended for that indulgent café-style finish)
  • Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder (for a sprinkle on top, optional but adds a lovely aromatic touch)

How To Make Hazelnut Latte?

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown that’s easy enough for beginners but detailed enough for latte aficionados:

  1. Prepare Your Espresso

    • Brew 1-2 shots of fresh espresso. If you’re using a machine, make sure to grind your beans just before brewing for maximum flavor.
    • No machine? Brew a strong cup of coffee and keep it hot.
  2. Heat And Froth Your Milk

    • Pour your milk of choice into a small saucepan or frother.
    • Heat it gently over medium-low heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
    • Froth using a milk frother or whisk vigorously by hand until you have a nice layer of foam.
  3. Add Hazelnut Syrup

    • Pour 2-3 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup into your favorite mug.
    • Add sweetener if you want it sweeter, but taste first!
  4. Combine Espresso And Syrup

    • Pour the hot espresso over the syrup. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Add Steamed Milk

    • Slowly pour your frothed milk into the espresso mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon.
    • Spoon the foam on top last to give it that creamy, velvety finish.
  6. Garnish And Enjoy

    • Top with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder, or even some crushed toasted hazelnuts if you’re feeling fancy.
    • Sip, savor, and bask in the glory of your homemade hazelnut latte masterpiece.
  Cafe Latte Homemade Recipe [+Tips]

Expert Tips

Now, because I’m all about helping you level up your latte game, here are some insider tips that baristas swear by:

  • Use freshly ground coffee beans: The flavor difference is night and day. Keep your beans in an airtight container away from light.
  • Don’t overheat your milk: The sweet spot is between 140°F to 160°F (60°C to 70°C). Overheated milk tastes burnt and loses that creamy sweetness.
  • Froth like a pro: If you don’t have a frother, shake hot milk vigorously in a tightly sealed jar for about 30 seconds to create foam.
  • Adjust syrup to taste: Start with less; you can always add more. The quality of the syrup affects how strong the hazelnut flavor is.
  • Try a pinch of salt: Adding a tiny pinch of salt to your hazelnut syrup or milk can enhance the nutty flavor and cut through excess sweetness.
  • Experiment with espresso ratios: Some like a stronger espresso punch, others prefer a lighter touch. Find your balance.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Hazelnut lattes are incredibly versatile, and these variations can keep your coffee routine exciting:

  • Iced Hazelnut Latte: Brew your espresso and let it cool, then pour over ice. Add cold milk and hazelnut syrup. Shake or stir well.
  • Vegan Hazelnut Latte: Use oat or almond milk and check that your hazelnut syrup is vegan-friendly.
  • Mocha Hazelnut Latte: Add a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a nutty-chocolate twist.
  • Spiced Hazelnut Latte: Sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or cinnamon for a warming spice flavor.
  • Protein Boost Hazelnut Latte: Blend in a scoop of your favorite vanilla or chocolate protein powder for a filling post-workout treat.
  • Sugar-free Hazelnut Latte: Use sugar-free hazelnut syrup and a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

Final Words

Making a hazelnut latte at home is not just about the drink; it’s about creating a little moment of joy, a pause in your day that feels both indulgent and personal. With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of love, you can whip up a café-quality latte that suits your taste perfectly.

Remember, the beauty is in the customization-tweak it, experiment, and discover your own perfect cup. And hey, sharing this homemade goodness with friends or family? Instant heartwarming bonus points.

FAQs

What Is A Hazelnut Latte?

A hazelnut latte is a coffee drink made by combining espresso with steamed milk and flavored with hazelnut syrup or hazelnut extract. It offers a nutty, sweet flavor that complements the boldness of the espresso.

How Do You Make A Hazelnut Latte At Home?

To make a hazelnut latte, you need brewed espresso, steamed milk, and hazelnut syrup or hazelnut flavoring. Brew one or two shots of espresso, steam the milk, then mix them together with a tablespoon or two of hazelnut syrup. Optionally, top with foam or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flavor.

Can I Make A Hazelnut Latte Without An Espresso Machine?

Yes, you can use instant espresso powder or strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine. Just brew a strong cup of coffee and use it as the base for your hazelnut latte.

What Milk Is Best For A Hazelnut Latte?

The best milk for a hazelnut latte depends on personal preference. Whole milk creates a creamy, rich texture, while skim milk or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk offer different textures and flavors. Oat milk pairs particularly well with hazelnut because of its naturally sweet flavor.

  Olive Oil Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Can I Use Homemade Hazelnut Syrup For A Hazelnut Latte?

Absolutely! Homemade hazelnut syrup can enhance the flavor and quality of your hazelnut latte. To make it, combine sugar, water, and hazelnuts, then cook over low heat until it thickens and becomes infused with nutty flavors.

How Much Hazelnut Syrup Should I Add To A Hazelnut Latte?

Generally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup per cup of coffee or espresso is recommended, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter latte, add more syrup, and if you like it less sweet, use less.

Is It Possible To Make A Hazelnut Iced Latte?

Yes, you can easily make a hazelnut iced latte by brewing espresso, letting it cool, and then combining it with cold milk and ice. Add hazelnut syrup to taste and stir well for a refreshing drink.

Can I Use Hazelnut Extract Instead Of Hazelnut Syrup?

Yes, you can use hazelnut extract as a substitute for hazelnut syrup. However, extract is much more concentrated, so start with just a few drops and taste before adding more. You may also need to add a sweetener, as extract is not sweet on its own.

Can I Make A Sugar-free Hazelnut Latte?

Yes, you can make a sugar-free hazelnut latte by using a sugar-free hazelnut syrup or hazelnut-flavored extract. You can also substitute regular milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk to keep the drink lower in sugar.

How Can I Decorate A Hazelnut Latte?

To decorate a hazelnut latte, you can top it with a thin layer of foam and sprinkle it with cocoa powder, cinnamon, or crushed hazelnuts for a more aromatic experience. You could also drizzle extra hazelnut syrup over the top for a visually appealing touch.