There’s just something cozy about wrapping your hands around a hot mug of hazelnut coffee.
It’s rich, nutty, and a little sweet — basically everything you want when you’re craving comfort in a cup.
This recipe is super simple but feels like a treat from your favorite coffee shop.
I’ve made this for years whenever I want to slow down and take a moment for myself.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this is always on repeat in my house.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’ve made this on quiet mornings, late nights, and even as an afternoon pick-me-up when I needed something warm and comforting without brewing an entire pot. It always hits the spot. Here’s why I love it:
- It tastes like dessert in a mug — but takes less than 10 minutes
- You only need a few basic ingredients
- It feels like a coffee shop treat but costs way less
- You can tweak it to be dairy-free or sugar-free and it still tastes amazing
- The toasted hazelnut flavor is rich and cozy, perfect for chilly days
Servings & Time
Serves: 1
Total Time: 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup brewed strong coffee (or 1 shot espresso)
- 1 tablespoon hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ tablespoon sugar (optional)
- Dash of ground cinnamon (optional, for topping)
Pro Tips
- Warm the milk slowly to avoid scorching it — don’t let it boil.
- Whisk the hazelnut spread in well so it melts completely into the milk.
- Use espresso if you want a stronger coffee flavor.
- Froth the milk before pouring for that café-style finish.
- Sprinkle cinnamon or even shaved chocolate on top for extra flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or milk frother
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Heatproof mug
Substitutions & Variations
- Use oat or almond milk instead of whole milk for dairy-free
- Swap hazelnut spread for sugar-free or vegan versions
- Add a splash of hazelnut syrup for extra nuttiness
- Make it iced by cooling the coffee and pouring over ice
Make Ahead Tips
- Brew the coffee in advance and store it in the fridge
- Measure the hazelnut spread and vanilla ahead of time for quick assembly
- You can heat and froth the milk, then store it in a thermos for later use
Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
Brew ½ cup strong coffee or pull 1 shot of espresso and set it aside.
Step 2: Heat the Milk with Hazelnut Spread
In a small saucepan, pour in 1 cup whole milk and add 1 tablespoon hazelnut spread. Heat over medium, whisking constantly until the milk is hot and the spread is fully melted — about 3-4 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Step 3: Add Vanilla & Optional Sugar
Once the hazelnut milk is warm and smooth, stir in ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and ½ tablespoon sugar (optional). Whisk again to combine.
Step 4: Froth the Milk
(Optional, but nice!) Use a handheld frother or whisk vigorously until the milk mixture becomes frothy on top.
Step 5: Combine Coffee and Milk
Pour the brewed coffee into your mug. Then gently pour the hot hazelnut milk mixture over the top. Spoon the foam on top if you frothed it.
Step 6: Top and Serve
Sprinkle a tiny dash of ground cinnamon on top (optional), and serve hot.
Leftovers & Storage
This is best made fresh, but if you want to save some:
- Store leftover hazelnut milk mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Reheat gently in a saucepan before using
- Always add freshly brewed coffee when serving again
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Hazelnut spread is full of fat, sugar, and cocoa — all of which melt beautifully into warm milk, creating a rich, smooth texture. Heating the milk slowly lets the fat in the spread emulsify better, blending with the coffee without curdling or separating. The touch of vanilla boosts flavor while keeping the drink balanced.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the milk: This can burn the milk and change the flavor.
- Not whisking enough: The hazelnut spread won’t dissolve properly if you don’t whisk well.
- Using weak coffee: The flavors won’t balance and it’ll taste too milky.
- Skipping the froth: That top layer makes the texture feel more luxurious — don’t miss it if you can help it.
What to Serve With
- Toasted brioche or a buttery croissant
- Chocolate chip banana bread
- A stack of warm pancakes on a slow morning
- Biscotti or shortbread for dipping
FAQ
Can I make this without hazelnut spread?
Yes, use hazelnut syrup or extract, but you’ll lose that creamy richness.
Can I make it iced?
Yes! Cool the coffee and hazelnut milk, pour over ice, and skip the frothing.
Is it sweet?
It’s mildly sweet from the hazelnut spread. Add sugar if you want it sweeter.
Can I use instant coffee?
Yep — just make it strong for best results.
Hope you give this a try and love it as much as I do. If you do make it, drop a comment and let me know how it went or if you have any questions!
