A well-made hazelnut latte is more than just a flavored coffee—it’s a warm, aromatic invitation to pause, indulge, and embrace comfort. With its distinct toasted nut flavor, silky espresso base, and creamy milk finish, this drink feels both indulgent and refined. Popularized in European cafés and modern coffeehouses worldwide, the hazelnut latte has become a beloved go-to for those who crave the subtle balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and depth. Whether enjoyed hot on a chilly morning or poured over ice for a refreshing afternoon break, this latte has timeless appeal.
What Is a Hazelnut Latte?
A hazelnut latte is a café-style beverage made with espresso, steamed milk, and hazelnut syrup. Unlike other flavored lattes that can overpower the espresso, hazelnut offers a warm, buttery complement that enhances rather than masks the coffee’s natural flavor. The drink typically includes a 1:3 ratio of espresso to milk, with hazelnut syrup stirred in before the milk is poured. The flavor is delicate but present, adding a sense of cozy indulgence with every sip.
Ingredients Needed
Core Ingredients
- 1–2 shots of fresh espresso (about 1–2 oz)
- 3/4 to 1 cup of steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy like oat, almond, or soy)
- 1–2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup (adjust to taste)
Optional Garnishes and Add-Ins
- Whipped cream for richness and texture
- A light dusting of cocoa powder, nutmeg, or cinnamon
- Crushed hazelnuts or shaved chocolate for crunch and garnish
- A swirl of chocolate syrup for mocha flair
How to Make a Hazelnut Latte at Home
Creating a barista-level hazelnut latte at home doesn’t require complicated equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Brew Espresso: Use an espresso machine, stovetop moka pot, or French press. If you don’t have these, brew strong coffee using your drip machine or an aero press.
- Heat and Froth Milk: Steam your milk using a steam wand. If you don’t have one, heat milk on the stove or microwave and use a milk frother, French press, or whisk to create froth.
- Prepare the Mug: Add the hazelnut syrup to your serving mug.
- Combine: Pour in the freshly brewed espresso. Stir to combine the syrup and coffee. Then slowly pour in the frothed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon.
- Finish the Latte: Top with a spoonful of foam. Add whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa or crushed hazelnuts, and enjoy immediately.
Flavor Profile and Aroma
The appeal of a hazelnut latte lies in its warm, aromatic profile:
- Nuttiness: Soft and buttery, resembling roasted hazelnuts
- Sweetness: Balanced—not sugary, but gently sweet from the syrup
- Body: Creamy from the milk, with a smooth mouthfeel
- Espresso notes: Deep and bold, anchoring the flavor
When the milk is properly frothed and poured, the result is a textured drink with layers of aroma and richness, making each sip more enjoyable than the last.
Hazelnut Latte Variations
Iced Hazelnut Latte
- Brew espresso and let it cool slightly
- Pour over ice in a tall glass
- Add hazelnut syrup and cold milk
- Stir, then top with cold foam or a drizzle of chocolate syrup
Hazelnut Mocha Latte
- Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup to your espresso before adding milk
- Garnish with whipped cream and shaved chocolate
Hazelnut Oat Milk Latte
- Use barista-style oat milk for a dairy-free, creamy texture
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth
Hazelnut-Vanilla Latte
- Use equal parts vanilla syrup and hazelnut syrup for a dessert-style drink
Making Hazelnut Syrup from Scratch
If you prefer to control sweetness or avoid artificial additives, try this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4–1/2 teaspoon hazelnut extract
Instructions:
- Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Remove from heat and stir in the hazelnut extract.
- Let cool, then transfer to a bottle or jar.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
For extra depth, infuse with vanilla bean or add a splash of maple syrup.
Best Pairings with Hazelnut Lattes
The smooth, nutty flavor of hazelnut makes it incredibly versatile for food pairings:
- Breakfast: Buttery croissants, banana bread, cinnamon rolls, waffles with Nutella
- Snacks: Biscotti, shortbread, granola bars with nuts and chocolate
- Desserts: Tiramisu, brownies, hazelnut mousse, apple tart, or a slice of chocolate cake
Pair it with flavors that mirror its warm tones—think toasted, chocolatey, or buttery.
Nutrition and Customization Options
- Calories: A standard hazelnut latte with whole milk and syrup ranges from 180–280 calories.
- Sugar: Store-bought syrups add up to 15g sugar per serving. Opt for low-sugar or homemade versions for balance.
- Milk swaps: Use unsweetened almond or oat milk for fewer calories and a lighter profile.
- Extras: Skip whipped cream and use foam-only for a lighter finish.
Hazelnuts themselves are rich in Vitamin E and healthy fats, although the latte is more of a treat than a nutrient source.
Café Culture and the Hazelnut Latte
The hazelnut latte has become a coffeehouse staple, offering an alternative to sweeter or more aggressive flavors like caramel or mocha. Its popularity lies in its gentle warmth and the way it complements fall and winter menus. Often found on café chalkboards next to seasonal specials like maple spice, peppermint mocha, and pumpkin chai, the hazelnut latte holds its own as a year-round classic with cold-weather charm.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you’re crafting a cozy corner at home or grabbing a cup from your favorite café, the hazelnut latte offers more than caffeine—it’s a sensory moment. From the first waft of toasted nut aroma to the last sip of velvety foam, this latte delivers comfort, familiarity, and quiet elegance. Versatile, flavorful, and easy to make your own, it’s no wonder this drink remains a beloved favorite in the ever-evolving world of specialty coffee.
So light a candle, cue up a playlist, and let the gentle magic of a hazelnut latte warm your hands—and your heart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes! While espresso provides the boldest base, you can easily use strong brewed coffee, a French press, or even instant coffee. Just make sure the coffee is robust enough to stand up to the hazelnut syrup and steamed milk.
Hazelnut syrup typically offers both sweetness and nutty depth. Most commercial syrups lean sweet, so if you prefer a more natural nut flavor, try using a homemade syrup with hazelnut extract or choose a sugar-free version.
Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but oat milk is a great dairy-free alternative with a mild natural sweetness. Almond milk also pairs well with hazelnut, creating a double-nut flavor profile.
Absolutely! Iced hazelnut lattes are refreshing and just as flavorful. Brew espresso, let it cool slightly, then pour over ice with hazelnut syrup and cold milk. Top with cold foam or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a café-style finish.
It depends on how it’s made. A traditional hazelnut latte with whole milk and syrup can range from 180–280 calories. To lighten it up, opt for unsweetened almond or oat milk and use a low-sugar hazelnut syrup or homemade version.
