Effortless Hazelnut Coffee Recipe
Ingredients
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Coffee:
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite ground coffee (medium roast is ideal)
- 1 cup hot water
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Hazelnut Flavor:
- 1 tablespoon of hazelnut syrup (or adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of pure hazelnut extract (optional for deeper flavor)
-
Milk Options:
- ¼ cup milk of your choice (whole, skim, almond, oat, or coconut)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of vanilla-flavored creamer for added sweetness
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Sweeteners (Optional):
- Sugar, honey, or artificial sweetener to taste
-
Toppings:
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting
Equipment
- French press, drip coffee maker, or pour-over coffee maker
- Mug
- Milk frother (optional)
- Small saucepan (if heating milk)
Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
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Select Your Coffee Maker:
Choose between a French press, a drip coffee maker, or a pour-over method based on your preference. -
Measure and Add Grounds:
Place 2 tablespoons of medium roast coffee grounds into your coffee maker. Adjust the coffee quantity based on your taste preference, but keep the ratio of 1-2 tablespoons per cup for best flavor. -
Add Water:
Heat water to just off the boil (about 200°F or 93°C). Pour the hot water over the coffee grounds, ensuring they are fully saturated. Let it brew for about 4-5 minutes for a French press or until your drip coffee maker indicates it’s ready.
Step 2: Prepare Hazelnut Flavor
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Incorporate Hazelnut Syrup:
While your coffee is brewing, take a separate mug and add 1 tablespoon of hazelnut syrup. This syrup can be found in most grocery stores or online. -
Optional Flavor Boost:
For those who love deeper flavors, add 1 teaspoon of pure hazelnut extract. This step enhances the nutty aroma and taste of your coffee.
Step 3: Combine Coffee and Hazelnut Flavor
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Pour Coffee Into Mug:
Once the coffee is brewed, carefully pour it into the mug containing the hazelnut syrup mixture. -
Mix Well:
Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the syrup and coffee are well combined, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Step 4: Add Milk
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Choose Your Milk:
Decide on your preferred milk. Dairy options like whole or skim milk will give a creamier texture, while non-dairy options like almond or oat milk add unique flavors. -
Froth Milk (Optional):
If you prefer a café-style coffee, froth ¼ cup of milk using a milk frother. For a simple method, heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling. Use a whisk to create a frothy texture. -
Combine Milk and Coffee:
Gently pour the frothed milk (or heated milk) into your hazelnut coffee. Stir lightly for an even consistency.
Step 5: Sweeten to Taste
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Add Sweeteners:
If you like your coffee sweet, add sugar, honey, or any sweetener of your choice. Stir until fully dissolved. -
Taste Test:
It’s always a good idea to taste your coffee at this stage and adjust sweetness or hazelnut flavor to your liking.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
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Top with Whipped Cream:
For a dessert-like experience, swirl a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. -
Garnish:
Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts over the whipped cream for crunch and an attractive presentation. Alternatively, dust with cocoa powder or ground cinnamon for extra flavor. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your effortless hazelnut coffee is now ready to serve. Enjoy your daily cup of deliciousness, whether you’re starting your day or taking a well-deserved break.
Health Benefits
Hazelnut coffee not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a range of health benefits:
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Antioxidant-Rich:
Both coffee and hazelnuts are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body. -
Heart Health:
Hazelnuts contain healthy fats that promote heart health, supporting lower cholesterol levels. -
Enhanced Mental Focus:
The caffeine in coffee can enhance cognitive function, improving focus and alertness throughout the day. -
Nutrient Density:
Hazelnuts provide essential nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet.
Tips for Perfect Hazelnut Coffee
- Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the syrup and coffee ratios to flip the flavor profile, catering to your unique preferences.
- Try Flavored Milk: For additional variety, use flavored milk options like vanilla or chocolate to enhance your drink.
- Cold Brew Option: For a refreshing summer twist, consider making a cold brew version by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours.
- Batch Preparation: You can prepare hazelnut coffee in larger quantities for group gatherings. Simply scale up the ingredients and brew a larger batch.
Storage Tips
- Coffee Grounds: Store unused coffee grounds in a sealed container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.
- Syrups and Extracts: Keep hazelnut syrup and extracts in a cool pantry, well-sealed, to preserve flavor over time.
Variations
- Iced Hazelnut Coffee: Use a cold brew method, and serve over ice with milk and syrup for a refreshing alternative.
- Hazelnut Mocha: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder or hot chocolate mix to the coffee for a delightful mocha variation.
- Nutty Hazelnut Latte: Make a latte by using espresso instead of brewed coffee and frothing your milk.
With this effortless hazelnut coffee recipe, each day can start with a delightful cup, inviting warmth and comfort into your routine.