A steaming cup of coffee with a honey latte recipe dipper dripping golden honey into the mug.

The Ultimate Hazelnut Latte Recipe for Coffee Lovers

If you’re a coffee enthusiast who loves nutty, sweet flavors, the hazelnut latte is the perfect drink for you. This café favorite combines the boldness of espresso with the rich, nutty sweetness of hazelnut syrup and creamy steamed milk. The good news? You don’t have to visit your local coffee shop to enjoy one!

In this blog, you’ll learn how to create the perfect hazelnut latte recipe at home, along with tips, variations, and a look at why this drink has become a classic for coffee lovers everywhere.

What Is a Hazelnut Latte?

A hazelnut latte is a classic coffee beverage that blends three main components:

Espresso for a strong, bold coffee base.
Hazelnut syrup for sweetness and nutty flavor.
Steamed milk for creaminess and a smooth texture.

It’s a versatile drink that can be served hot or iced, and it’s customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you want a little sweetness or a decadent treat, the hazelnut latte delivers every time.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hazelnut Latte Recipe

To make a delicious hazelnut latte at home, gather the following ingredients:

Espresso: 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso or 1/2 cup of strong coffee.
Milk: Whole milk, oat milk, or almond milk for creaminess.
Hazelnut Syrup: Store-bought or homemade hazelnut syrup for flavor.
Sugar or Sweetener (Optional): Adjust sweetness to your liking.
Whipped Cream (Optional): For an indulgent topping.
Hazelnut Crumbles or Cocoa Powder (Optional): For garnish.

How to Make a Hazelnut Latte at Home

Follow these simple steps to create a hazelnut latte that rivals any coffee shop creation:

Step 1: Brew the Espresso

Start by brewing two shots of espresso using your espresso machine, French press, or moka pot. If you don’t have espresso, use 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee.

Step 2: Heat and Froth the Milk

Heat 1 cup of milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
Use a handheld milk frother, steam wand, or whisk to create a thick, velvety foam.

Step 3: Add Hazelnut Syrup

Pour 1–2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup into your coffee mug.
Adjust the amount of syrup based on your desired level of sweetness.

Step 4: Combine Espresso and Milk

Pour the freshly brewed espresso into the mug with the hazelnut syrup.
Slowly add the steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon.
Spoon the foam on top to complete your latte.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

For a barista-style finish:

Add a swirl of whipped cream on top.
Sprinkle hazelnut crumbles or cocoa powder for added flavor and texture.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade hazelnut latte!

Tips for the Best Hazelnut Latte

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly brewed espresso and high-quality milk enhance the overall flavor.
Balance Sweetness: Start with a small amount of hazelnut syrup and adjust to taste.
Froth Like a Pro: Properly frothed milk creates a creamy texture and enhances the drinking experience.
Experiment with Milk: Barista-style almond milk or oat milk can add a unique twist.

How to Make Homemade Hazelnut Syrup

If you want to elevate your hazelnut latte with natural flavors, try making your own hazelnut syrup at home. Here’s a quick recipe:

Ingredients

1 cup sugar (white or brown)
1 cup water
1/2 cup roasted hazelnuts, crushed
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine sugar, water, and crushed hazelnuts in a saucepan.
Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes to infuse the hazelnut flavor.
Strain the mixture to remove the hazelnut bits.
Stir in the vanilla extract and let it cool.

Store the syrup in a jar or bottle for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

Variations of Hazelnut Latte

The hazelnut latte is endlessly customizable. Here are some popular variations to try:

Iced Hazelnut Latte

Brew espresso and let it cool.
Mix with cold milk and hazelnut syrup.
Pour over ice and garnish with whipped cream.

Chocolate Hazelnut Latte

Add 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to the espresso.
Follow the standard recipe for a Nutella-inspired twist.

Caramel Hazelnut Latte

Combine hazelnut syrup and caramel syrup for a sweet and nutty duo.
Garnish with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

Vegan Hazelnut Latte

Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk.
Ensure the hazelnut syrup is vegan-friendly.

Spiced Hazelnut Latte

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the steamed milk.
Garnish with a dusting of ground spices for a warm and aromatic twist.

Health Benefits of a Hazelnut Latte

While the hazelnut latte is a treat, it also offers some surprising health perks when enjoyed in moderation:

Rich in Antioxidants: Coffee is a great source of antioxidants, which help protect your body from free radicals.
Energy Boost: The caffeine in espresso improves focus and mental clarity.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Hazelnuts contain monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
Dairy-Free Options: Using almond or oat milk makes this drink a lighter, lactose-free alternative.

FAQs

What does a hazelnut latte taste like?
It has a bold coffee flavor complemented by the sweet, nutty richness of hazelnut syrup and the creaminess of steamed milk.

Can I make a sugar-free hazelnut latte?
Yes! Use sugar-free hazelnut syrup and unsweetened milk to create a low-calorie version.

Is a hazelnut latte vegan?
It can be! Substitute dairy milk with almond, oat, or soy milk and ensure the hazelnut syrup is plant-based.

What’s the difference between a hazelnut latte and hazelnut coffee?
A hazelnut latte is made with espresso, steamed milk, and hazelnut syrup, while hazelnut coffee typically refers to brewed coffee flavored with hazelnut essence or grounds.

How can I store leftover hazelnut syrup?
Keep homemade hazelnut syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Conclusion

The hazelnut latte recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting combination of coffee and nutty sweetness. Whether you’re making it hot, iced, or with a creative twist, this drink is perfect for any time of the day. By using simple ingredients and following a few easy steps, you can recreate the magic of a coffee shop latte in the comfort of your own kitchen.

So, grab your favorite mug, whip up a hazelnut latte, and indulge in the delicious flavors of this café favorite. Happy brewing!