Love coffee but want something a little cozier than your basic brew? This hazelnut latte delivers rich, buttery flavor with bold hazelnut notes—and best of all, it skips the store-bought syrup entirely. Whether you’re craving a hot cup on a chilly morning or an iced version to sip on the go, this homemade hazelnut latte is easy, affordable, and tastes better than most café versions.
In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make the best hazelnut latte at home, what it tastes like, whether it’s good for you, and even how it stacks up against your favorite chain versions. From recipe breakdown to frequently asked questions, you’ll find everything you need to know to master this comforting drink.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Hazelnut Latte Recipe
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: 1 latte 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This hazelnut latte is rich, buttery, and nutty with no artificial syrups. Just 4 ingredients and 2 minutes for a perfect hot or iced drink.
Ingredients
½ – 1 cup oat milk, or milk of choice
¼ tsp hazelnut extract, plus more to taste
1–3 tsp maple syrup, agave nectar, or homemade hazelnut syrup
1 double-shot espresso
1–2 cups ice cubes (for iced latte)
Instructions
1. For a hot latte, heat the milk in a microwave or on the stovetop. Froth with a milk frother.
2. For an iced latte, add the milk to a serving glass.
3. Add hazelnut extract and sweetener to milk. Mix or froth to combine.
4. Pour the freshly brewed espresso into the mug or glass with the milk.
5. If making hot, top with frothed milk and stir. For iced, add ice cubes.
6. Taste and adjust sweetener or hazelnut extract if needed.
Notes
Use plant-based milk like oat for creaminess.
Adjust sweetness to your liking.
Use decaf espresso or chicory for a caffeine-free version.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Coffee
- Method: Brew
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte
- Calories: 102kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Hazelnut Latte
There’s something about the aroma of coffee mixed with toasted hazelnut that brings me straight back to the kitchen of my first apartment. Back then, I was a broke 20-something new to life without a barista. I’d sip a hazel nut latte at my tiny table, laptop open, building marketing campaigns for clients while dreaming of something more creative. That’s when the earliest version of this recipe was born—half necessity, half nostalgia.
These days, as a full-time food creator running Forkful Daily, I still make this hazel nut latte on repeat. It’s one of those recipes that’s just easy. No artificial syrup, no complicated steps—just oat milk, a dash of hazel nut extract, a touch of sweetener, and fresh espresso. I love that I can make it hot or iced, depending on the season. And let’s be honest, it saves me at least $6 every time I skip Starbucks.
This version gives you a strong nutty flavor without overpowering the coffee. It’s versatile enough to sweeten to taste and can be made dairy-free in seconds. The best part? You only need four ingredients and about two minutes to pull it off.
Next, I’ll show you exactly how to make it—and explain why this hazelnut latte stands out from the rest.
How to Make Hazelnut Latte at Home (Hot or Iced)
Essential Ingredients for a Homemade Hazelnut Latte
Making a hazelnut latte at home is easier than you might think—and it tastes even better when you control the sweetness and strength. This version skips artificial syrups and uses just a few pantry staples.
Start with oat milk, which brings natural creaminess that complements hazelnut beautifully. You’ll need a double shot of espresso, or strong brewed coffee if that’s what you have. Add hazelnut extract (about ¼ teaspoon), and sweeten with maple syrup, agave, or homemade hazelnut syrup.
For a hot version, gently heat and froth your milk. For iced, pour it over ice in a tall glass. Then add your freshly brewed espresso, stir, and taste. That’s it—café-level latte in two minutes.
Want more creative drinks like this? Try the fruity twist in this strawberry matcha latte or the refreshing pickle lemonade that’s taken over summer menus.
Pro Tips to Customize Your Hazelnut Latte
Want your latte stronger? Reduce the milk or add another shot of espresso. Need it richer? Use barista oat milk or half-and-half. For a sugar-free version, skip the sweetener entirely and let the hazelnut extract shine.
To make it extra cozy, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg on top. You can even create a layered iced version with milk on bottom, espresso on top, and a swirl of syrup between. And if you’re exploring creative twists, try the warming combo in this apple cider vinegar and lemon juice drink or the silky banana matcha latte for something unexpected.
Hazelnut Latte Benefits: Is It Actually Good for You?
Nutritional Breakdown of a Hazelnut Latte
A homemade hazelnut latte can absolutely be part of a healthy daily routine—especially when you’re in control of what goes into it. The version we’re working with has around 102 calories, 3g fat, and 18g carbohydrates per serving. It’s dairy-free (thanks to oat milk), contains no refined sugar if sweetened with maple or agave, and gets its signature flavor from pure hazelnut extract—not syrup filled with additives.
Coffee itself is rich in antioxidants and linked to improved focus and mood. When paired with plant-based milk and natural sweeteners, it creates a balanced beverage that satisfies your taste buds without spiking your blood sugar. Oat milk’s fiber also promotes fullness and supports healthy digestion.
Curious about other low-effort, feel-good drinks? Try the antioxidant-rich korean banana milk or this dreamy cloud cake recipe that turns dessert into a light, airy indulgence.
Hazelnut Latte vs. Store-Bought Versions
Here’s where your homemade hazelnut latte really wins: no hidden ingredients. While chain cafés like Starbucks do offer hazelnut lattes, they often use flavored syrups packed with sugar, preservatives, and artificial flavors. A grande hazelnut latte from Starbucks can contain up to 220 calories and 25g of sugar—and that’s before adding whipped cream or dairy milk.
By making yours at home, you’re not only saving money, you’re avoiding unnecessary sugar and tailoring the flavor to your liking. Want it stronger? Use less milk. Sweeter? Add a touch more syrup. You’re in complete control.
What Does Hazelnut Latte Taste Like? (And How Iced vs. Hot Compares)
Flavor Profile: Bold, Buttery, and Comforting
So, what does a hazelnut latte actually taste like? In short: comfort in a cup. The combination of deep espresso with nutty, slightly sweet hazelnut creates a flavor that’s warm, buttery, and lightly toasted. It’s richer than a vanilla latte, less spicy than a chai, and far more satisfying than a plain coffee.
Hazelnut extract brings intensity without overpowering the espresso. When combined with oat milk or any creamy alternative, it creates a smooth drink with just the right amount of sweetness—especially when balanced with natural syrups like maple or agave.
If you’re into cozy, nostalgic flavors, the taste of this latte might remind you of hazelnut creamers—but without the artificial aftertaste. It’s the kind of drink that feels like a warm hug (or a cool treat, if iced). And if you love fusion flavors, the banana milk latte offers a similar creamy richness with a fruity twist.
Hot vs. Iced Hazelnut Latte: Which Should You Try?
A hot hazelnut latte is undeniably comforting. The warmth brings out the nuttiness of the extract and gives that classic café-style foam layer if you froth your milk. It’s ideal for crisp mornings or snug evenings at home.
On the other hand, an iced hazelnut latte is refreshing and bold. Because it’s chilled and diluted slightly by ice, the espresso flavor pops a bit more, making it a great summer pick-me-up. It’s especially delicious when layered, with milk on the bottom and espresso poured over for a beautiful ombré effect.
Wondering about Starbucks? Their hazel nut latte is on the sweeter side, often made with 3–4 pumps of syrup in a medium drink. Compared to your homemade version, it’s significantly more sugary unless you customize your order. That’s why making it yourself wins on both flavor and flexibility.
Looking to explore more cool drinks? You might love this slightly tangy pink salt tonic or the trending salt lemonade recipe that balances salty and sweet beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hazelnut Latte
What does hazelnut latte taste like?
A hazelnut latte delivers a deep, roasted taste underscored by sweet, nutty notes. The espresso brings depth, while the hazelnut extract adds warmth and a buttery finish. If made with oat milk or almond milk, the drink gets a naturally creamy, balanced profile. It strikes a robust yet velvety balance—ideal for snuggly mornings or a tranquil afternoon pause.
Is hazelnut latte good for you?
It can be! A homemade hazelnut latte made with plant-based milk, natural sweeteners, and no artificial syrups is a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. You get antioxidants from coffee, fiber from oat milk, and control over your sugar intake. It’s a feel-good drink that won’t weigh you down.
Is there coffee in hazelnut latte?
Indeed, a hazelnut latte begins with a shot of espresso as its foundation. You’ll typically use one double shot (about 2 ounces) per serving. You can also use strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine, though espresso gives the richest flavor.
Is Starbucks hazelnut latte sweet?
Yes, Starbucks uses pumps of hazelnut syrup, which can make the drink quite sweet. A grande hazelnut latte usually contains around 4 pumps, equaling 20+ grams of sugar. If you prefer a less sweet option, request fewer pumps or make your own version at home with natural sweeteners.
Whether you’re a longtime coffee lover or just someone craving a cozy, nutty pick-me-up, this homemade hazelnut latte hits all the right notes. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and better for you than syrupy coffee shop versions. Plus, with just four ingredients and two minutes, it’s as practical as it is delicious.
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