There’s something wonderfully comforting about the rich aroma of coffee mingling with the nutty sweetness of hazelnut. Picture this: a leisurely weekend morning, sunlight streaming through the kitchen window, and the soft sound of frothy milk being whipped into a velvety cloud of goodness. That’s the magic of my Hazelnut Café au Lait, a delightful drink that transforms ordinary coffee into an extraordinary café experience right at home. This quick five-minute recipe suits both busy mornings and lazy afternoons, offering a customizable treat that can easily cater to your dietary needs—whether you prefer it dairy-free or topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. It’s the perfect way to elevate your coffee game and break free from the monotony of fast food!
Why is Hazelnut Café au Lait so special?
Comforting and Quick: This recipe is a breeze, taking just five minutes to prepare, perfect for busy lifestyles.
Rich and Aromatic: Expect a warm embrace of rich coffee and nutty hazelnut flavors that lift your spirits.
Versatile Options: Customize it effortlessly by swapping in dairy-free alternatives or different flavored spreads to match your cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it up to friends or family, and watch as their eyes light up at this café-style indulgence, all made in your own kitchen!
Perfect Pairings: Elevate your experience by pairing this drink with flaky croissants or chocolate biscotti for an irresistible treat.
Enjoy not just a drink but a comforting moment—discover how to make your very own Hazelnut Café au Lait with this delightful recipe!
Hazelnut Café au Lait Ingredients
For the Beverage
• Low-Fat Milk – Provides creaminess while keeping it light; substitute with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Brewed Coffee – Acts as the base for rich flavors; decaffeinated coffee can be used for a caffeine-free option.
• Hazelnut-Cocoa Spread (e.g., Nutella) – Adds sweetness and nutty depth; can be swapped with any chocolate hazelnut spread.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances aroma and flavor, lending warmth; optional but recommended for added depth.
For the Topping
• Whipped Cream – A luxurious topping that adds richness; pressurized whipped cream can be used for convenience or to save time.
How to Make Hazelnut Café au Lait
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large, heat-proof glass bowl, mix together low-fat milk, brewed coffee, and hazelnut-cocoa spread until fully combined. Stir until the spread dissolves completely for a smooth blend.
-
Heat the Mixture: Microwave the mixture on high for about 2 minutes, ensuring it’s warm but not boiling. Keep an eye on it to prevent overflow; it should be steaming and inviting.
-
Whip to Froth: Using a hand mixer or whisk, whip the mixture until it becomes frothy and doubles in volume. This is where the magic happens as the texture turns light and fluffy!
-
Pour and Serve: Pour the frothy Hazelnut Café au Lait into three serving cups. The warm, inviting aroma will fill the room, making it hard to resist!
-
Top It Off: Generously top each cup with whipped cream and sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for that extra layer of deliciousness.
Optional: Drizzle with chocolate syrup for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Hazelnut Café au Lait
-
Fridge: Store any leftover Hazelnut Café au Lait in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to enjoy, gently reheat and whip again for froth.
-
Freezer: If you want to save the drink for a later time, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. Use the cubes in smoothies or cold coffee drinks to add flavor.
-
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop, stirring well to reincorporate any settled ingredients. Avoid boiling to maintain that lovely texture.
-
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the drink base (milk, coffee, and hazelnut spread) up to 24 hours in advance. Just remember to reheat and whip for that frothy finish before serving!
Make Ahead Options
These Hazelnut Café au Lait are perfect for busy mornings or afternoons! You can prepare the drink base (milk, brewed coffee, and hazelnut-cocoa spread) up to 24 hours in advance by combining it in a heat-proof container and refrigerating it. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the mixture gently in the microwave and whip it once more until frothy. To maintain the creamy texture, avoid boiling the mixture while reheating, as this can alter its quality. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy the delicious, café-style experience with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Hazelnut Café au Lait?
Picture the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with sweet hazelnut as you create the perfect meal experience around your delightful drink.
-
Flaky Croissants: These buttery delights add a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the creamy Hazelnut Café au Lait.
-
Chocolate Biscotti: The rich chocolate flavor and crunchy texture of biscotti create a delightful contrast, enhancing the sweet hazelnut undertones of your drink.
-
Cinnamon Rolls: Warm, gooey cinnamon rolls provide a sweet and spiced pairing that elevates your cozy café experience at home.
-
Fruit Tart: A fresh and fruity dessert lightens the palate and adds a refreshing finish to balance the richness of the café au lait.
-
Scones with Jam: Serve warm scones smeared with your favorite jam for a delightful bite-sized treat that pairs beautifully with each sip of your drink.
-
Nutty Granola Bars: For a quick snack, chewy granola bars with nuts offer a wholesome, crunchy option that echoes the nutty notes in the café au lait.
-
Steamed Milk or Hot Chocolate: Offer your guests a comforting alternative to coffee, letting them enjoy the same cozy experience alongside you.
-
Fruit Smoothie: A refreshing and fruity smoothie adds brightness, providing a contrast to the richness of the Hazelnut Café au Lait.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a sweet ending, serve up a scoop of vanilla ice cream. When it melts into your drink, it creates an indulgent treat that you won’t soon forget.
Hazelnut Café au Lait Variations
Embrace the joy of creating a personalized masterpiece with your Hazelnut Café au Lait—let your taste buds lead the way!
-
Dairy-Free: Swap out low-fat milk for almond or oat milk for a creamy, plant-based delight.
-
Decaf Option: Use decaffeinated coffee if you want a soothing beverage without the jitters—great for evening enjoyment.
-
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with flavored spreads such as caramel or vanilla to add a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Each choice brings new depth to your drink!
-
Aromatic Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to elevate the drink’s fragrance and flavor profile, creating a warm, inviting drink on chilly mornings.
-
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle some chocolate syrup over the whipped cream for an indulgent upgrade that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
-
Iced Delight: For a refreshing take, prepare your concoction over ice. This chilled version offers a bright, invigorating flavor for warm days.
-
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the whipped cream for an extra crunch that adds texture and enhances the hazelnut experience.
-
Spicy Kick: If you crave a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture—a surprising yet delightful contrast to the sweetness!
Tips for the Best Hazelnut Café au Lait
-
Optimal Frothiness: Use a hand mixer or frother for the best results. Whisking by hand might take longer and yield less froth, making the texture more flat.
-
Watch the Microwave: Keep an eye on the mixture while microwaving to prevent spillovers. Heating too long can lead to boiling, which alters the flavor.
-
Adjust Sweetness: Always taste your Hazelnut Café au Lait before serving. Add more hazelnut spread if you prefer it sweeter or a touch more creaminess.
-
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, enjoy your drink freshly made. Reheating can alter the delightful frothy texture you’ve worked hard to achieve.
-
Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to customize by swapping in flavored spreads or non-dairy milk to cater to dietary preferences and enhance the experience!
Hazelnut Café au Lait Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right coffee for my Hazelnut Café au Lait?
Absolutely! The coffee you select greatly impacts the flavor of your café au lait. A robust brewed coffee will enhance the nutty hazelnut spread, while a milder blend may get lost in the mix. I recommend using a medium to dark roast for a rich, bold flavor. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, decaffeinated coffee is a superb alternative that still provides that comforting coffee essence.
How should I store any leftover Hazelnut Café au Lait?
You can store any remaining Hazelnut Café au Lait in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in the microwave, whisking to restore some frothiness. Just make sure it doesn’t boil, as this can change the drink’s delightful texture.
Can I freeze Hazelnut Café au Lait for later use?
Very! To freeze your café au lait, pour the drink into ice cube trays and allow them to freeze solid. Once frozen, you can use the coffee cubes in smoothies or cold coffee drinks, mixing them with fresh milk or a milk alternative for an instant treat. For the best quality, I suggest using them within 3 months.
What do I do if my Hazelnut Café au Lait isn’t frothy enough?
No worries! If your drink isn’t frothy, it might be due to not whipping it long enough or not using a hand mixer. I recommend using a hand mixer or milk frother to incorporate air into the mixture effectively. If whisking by hand, it’s essential to keep a steady rhythm for at least 2-3 minutes or until froth forms. Remember, the mixture should be steamy hot but not bubbling when you start whipping.
Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! This Hazelnut Café au Lait can easily be adapted for dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute low-fat milk with almond or oat milk. Always ensure your hazelnut-cocoa spread doesn’t contain allergens that could affect you or your loved ones, such as gluten or nuts, particularly if preparing for anyone with allergies or sensitivities. It’s always best to double-check ingredient labels!
Can I prepare the drink ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the drink base in advance by mixing the low-fat milk, brewed coffee, and hazelnut spread. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, reheat gently and whip until frothy. This method lets you enjoy your café au lait even on the busiest days, seamlessly fitting into your routine!
Comforting Hazelnut Café au Lait Ready in 5 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large, heat-proof glass bowl, mix together low-fat milk, brewed coffee, and hazelnut-cocoa spread until fully combined. Stir until the spread dissolves completely.
- Microwave the mixture on high for about 2 minutes, ensuring it’s warm but not boiling.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, whip the mixture until it becomes frothy and doubles in volume.
- Pour the frothy Hazelnut Café au Lait into three serving cups.
- Generously top each cup with whipped cream and sprinkle ground cinnamon on top.
