Alright, so you’re wondering how hazelnut coffee actually happens.
Is it brewed with real nuts? Is it just flavoured goop? Are squirrels involved? Let’s clear it up.
First off: It’s just regular coffee with hazelnut flavour added.
That’s it. That’s the secret.
The how is all about when and what kind of hazelnut goodness gets mixed in.
And yep—there’s more than one way to do it.
Method 1: Flavour Infusion (aka Spraying the Beans)
This is the most common way it’s done.
Here’s the play-by-play:
- Coffee beans get roasted like normal.
- While they’re still warm, they get misted with hazelnut flavouring (natural or artificial).
- The beans chill and soak it all up.
- They’re cooled and bagged for your next morning meltdown.
My take:
This stuff can taste amazing if they use real extracts.
If they cheap out with artificial flavours? Kinda smells like a hazelnut candle melted on your tongue. Not ideal.
Method 2: Grinding Real Hazelnuts with the Beans
Now we’re talking actual hazelnuts, not just flavour spray.
What goes down:
- Roast coffee beans + roast hazelnuts.
- Toss both into a grinder.
- The hazelnut oils mix in with the grounds.
- Brew it like any normal coffee.
My take:
Super tasty and way more natural, but it’s messier. Hazelnuts are oily and can gum up your grinder. Also, real nuts = pricier.
Still, worth it if you’re a coffee nerd or just feeling fancy.
Method 3: DIY in Your Own Kitchen
You don’t have to buy hazelnut coffee. You can make it.
Here’s how:
→ Syrup
Brew your coffee, then add hazelnut syrup.
Easy. Fast. Tastes like whatever brand you buy.
Pro tip: Go easy on it. Some syrups are sugar in disguise.
→ Extract
Add a drop or two of hazelnut extract to your brewed coffee.
Way more concentrated than syrup. A little goes a long way.
My take: Clean flavour, zero sugar, but don’t overdo it or it tastes like chemicals.
→ Grind Hazelnuts at Home
Feeling bold? Throw a couple of roasted hazelnuts into your coffee grinder with the beans.
Heads up: You’ll need to clean your grinder real good after. Or just get a spare one for nutty experiments.
→ Add Hazelnuts While Brewing
Toss chopped hazelnuts straight into your French press or filter basket.
The hot water pulls the flavour out as it brews.
My take: Subtle, mellow hazelnut vibes. Super low effort. Nice if you’re not into sweet coffee.
Bonus: Some Beans Taste Nutty All On Their Own
Here’s the cool part—some coffee beans already taste kinda like hazelnuts, even without any flavour added.
No joke.
It depends on the origin of the bean and how it’s roasted.
Beans from Brazil, Colombia, or Guatemala often have natural notes of nuts, chocolate, or toastiness. You don’t need to add a thing.
Light to medium roasts really bring these flavours out. Go too dark, and you lose all that subtle sweetness.
You’ll find this method in some bags of organic hazelnut flavored coffee you see at the store. It’s a reliable way to get that sweet, nutty kick without needing extra steps at home.
My take:
If you like your coffee simple, clean, and naturally nutty—this is the way.
Look for bags that say stuff like “nutty,” “chocolate,” “toasty,” or “smooth” in the tasting notes.
No flavouring. No fuss. Just a good bean doing its thing.
Natural vs Artificial Flavouring: What’s the Deal?
Natural flavouring usually means extracts taken from real hazelnuts or natural sources.
Artificial flavouring is lab-made to taste similar, often using chemicals.
Natural tends to taste smoother and more authentic—but it costs more.
Artificial can sometimes taste overly sweet or a bit fake. Think of it like the difference between real vanilla and vanilla essence.
Quick Note on Allergies
Does hazelnut coffee have real nuts?
Usually not—unless it’s made using real ground hazelnuts (like in Method 2 or DIY grinding).
Most flavoured coffees just use oils or flavouring, so they’re technically nut-free—but if you have a severe allergy, don’t risk it. Always check the label.
Best Way to Brew Hazelnut Coffee
Once you’ve got your hazelnut coffee, how you brew it makes a difference.
- French Press = Bolder, richer flavour.
- Drip machine = More mellow and consistent.
- Espresso = Best for flavoured lattes.
- Cold Brew = Smooth and sweet. Great with syrup or extract.
What Does Hazelnut Coffee Taste Like?
Warm, nutty, slightly sweet.
Sometimes a little caramel or chocolate in there depending on the bean and roast.
It’s like coffee got cozy with a dessert—without going full sugar bomb.
Recommended Hazelnut Coffees to Try
- Fresh Roasted Coffee – Hazelnut (natural flavouring)
- Bones Coffee – Hazelnut Cream (big flavour, fun brand)
- Don Francisco’s Hazelnut Ground Coffee (grocery store staple)
- Volcanica Guatemala Coffee (naturally nutty, no flavour added)
So, What’s the Best Way?
Depends on you:
- Want strong, consistent flavour? Go with infused beans or syrup.
- Want that “real nut” taste? Try grinding with hazelnuts.
- Want total control? DIY it with extracts or brewing hacks.
- Want natural flavour without any extras? Try nutty-tasting single origin beans.
Either way, hazelnut coffee hits different. It’s warm, nutty, and just feels like a hug in a mug.
Now go brew one. You earned it.
FAQ
Is hazelnut coffee real coffee?
Yes. It starts with regular coffee beans, then flavour gets added.
Can I drink hazelnut coffee if I’m allergic to nuts?
Most flavoured coffees don’t contain actual nuts, but always check the label or ask the roaster.
Is hazelnut coffee sweet?
Not always. Flavoured beans tend to smell sweet, but most don’t have added sugar unless it’s in a syrup.
Does hazelnut coffee have calories?
Flavoured beans usually have 0-5 calories per cup. Syrups or creamers will add more.
Is hazelnut coffee keto-friendly?
Yep—as long as you’re not adding sugary syrups or creamers.
