If you're a hazelnut coffee lover, you're in for a treat! Learn how to make hazelnut coffee from real hazelnuts in a few simple steps. Not only is it easy to do, but the results are exceptionally flavorful and aromatic. Follow this guide to create your very own hazelnut coffee right at home, and enjoy a fresh, homemade cup of joy. The process is simple and satisfying, ensuring that each cup is made with love and care.

Why Make Hazelnut Coffee from Scratch?

Making hazelnut coffee from scratch allows you to control the quality and flavor of your coffee. Store-bought hazelnut coffee often contains artificial flavors and additives, but when you make it yourself, you know exactly what's going into your cup. Plus, the fresh, natural taste of real hazelnuts is incomparable. It’s also a fun and rewarding process that can become a cherished part of your morning routine.

Ingredients

To get started, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Coffee beans: Choose your favorite variety. A medium roast works well, but feel free to experiment with different roasts to find your perfect match.
• Raw hazelnuts: With skins. The skins add a bit of extra flavor and texture to the grind.
• Milk: Your choice of dairy or plant-based milk. Almond, soy, or oat milk are excellent options if you're looking for a non-dairy alternative.
• Sugar or sweetener: Optional, depending on your taste preferences.

How to Make Hazelnut Coffee

Measure Ingredients

Start by measuring out your coffee beans and hazelnuts. A good starting ratio is 2 parts coffee beans to 1 part hazelnuts. For example, if you’re using 2 cups of coffee beans, use 1 cup of hazelnuts. Feel free to adjust this ratio based on your taste after trying your first batch.

Grind Together

Place the coffee beans and hazelnuts together in a coffee grinder. Grind them until you achieve a coarse texture, which is perfect for a French press. The combined grind of coffee and hazelnuts ensures a well-blended flavor.

Brew Your Coffee

Place the ground mixture into a French press. Pour boiling water over the mixture, making sure all the grounds are saturated. Let it brew for 5-7 minutes to extract the full flavor. The French press method helps retain the essential oils and flavors of the hazelnuts, creating a rich and aromatic cup of coffee.

Press down the plunger gently to separate the grounds from the liquid. Pour your freshly brewed hazelnut coffee into your favorite mug. Add milk and sugar if desired. The addition of milk can enhance the creaminess and mellow the strong flavors, while sugar can balance the nuttiness.

Enhancing the Flavor

If you want to amplify the nutty flavor of your hazelnut coffee, here are some tips:

Roast the Hazelnuts

Roasting hazelnuts before grinding them can significantly enhance their flavor. Spread the raw hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast them at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until they become brown and fragrant. Let them cool before grinding them with the coffee beans. If you want to skip this step, you can also buy freshly roasted hazelnuts.

Adjust the Ratio

If you prefer a stronger hazelnut flavor, try increasing the amount of hazelnuts in your blend. You can experiment with different ratios until you find the perfect balance that suits your taste.

Add Hazelnut Extract

For an extra boost of hazelnut flavor, add a few drops of hazelnut extract to your brewed coffee. This can intensify the nutty notes without altering the texture of your coffee.

Use Hazelnut Syrup

Homemade hazelnut syrup can add a sweet, nutty flavor to your coffee. It’s a great way to customize the sweetness and nuttiness of your drink.

Making Hazelnut Syrup

To create a coffee that rivals your favorite coffee shop, make your own hazelnut syrup with these simple steps. Homemade hazelnut syrup is easy to make and can be stored for several weeks, allowing you to enjoy hazelnut-flavored coffee anytime.

Ingredients

• 18 oz white sugar
• 18 oz water
• 9 oz raw hazelnuts

Instructions

Roast Hazelnuts

Start by roasting the raw hazelnuts in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until they are brown and fragrant. Roasting enhances the natural oils and flavors in the hazelnuts. Let them cool, then roughly chop.

Prepare Syrup

In a large saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Reduce the heat to low, add the chopped hazelnuts, and simmer the mixture for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the hazelnut flavor to infuse into the syrup.

Strain and Store

Allow the syrup to cool slightly before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the hazelnut pieces. Pour the strained syrup into a clean jar or bottle and let it cool completely before sealing. Store the syrup in the refrigerator. It can be added to your coffee for a sweet, hazelnut flavor. A tablespoon or two should be enough to enhance the flavor of your coffee.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make hazelnut coffee from real hazelnuts, you can enjoy experimenting with different flavors and blends. Whether you prefer a subtle hint of hazelnut or a bold, nutty flavor, this homemade coffee will delight your taste buds. Share your creations with friends and family, or leave a comment below to tell us how your homemade hazelnut coffee turned out! With these simple steps, you’ll be able to enjoy a rich, flavorful cup of hazelnut coffee anytime you want. Happy brewing!

Additional Tips for the Perfect Hazelnut Coffee

To further enhance your hazelnut coffee experience, here are a few additional tips:

Choosing the Right Coffee Beans

The type of coffee beans you use can make a significant difference in the final taste of your hazelnut coffee. Experiment with different beans, such as Arabica or Robusta, and try various roast levels from light to dark. Each combination will offer a unique flavor profile that can complement the nutty taste of the hazelnuts. We love these coffee beans from 49th Coffee!

Storage of Ingredients

To maintain the freshness of your coffee beans and hazelnuts, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Freshness is key to achieving the best flavor in your homemade hazelnut coffee.

Experimenting with Sweeteners

While sugar is a common choice for sweetening coffee, you can also try other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. Each sweetener adds its own unique flavor, which can enhance the overall taste of your hazelnut coffee.

Adding Spices

For a seasonal twist, consider adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla to your hazelnut coffee. These spices can complement the nutty flavors and add a warm, comforting touch to your brew.

Sharing Your Creations

Don’t keep your delicious hazelnut coffee to yourself! Invite friends and family over for a coffee-tasting session. Share your recipes and tips, and enjoy the process of making and tasting homemade hazelnut coffee together. You might even inspire others to start making their own flavored coffees at home.

Final Thoughts

Making hazelnut coffee from real hazelnuts is not only a delightful way to enjoy your favorite beverage, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. With a little practice and experimentation, you can perfect your recipe and enjoy a delicious, aromatic cup of hazelnut coffee anytime you desire. Happy brewing!