Hazelnut Coffee: Flavor, Brewing Tips, and What Makes It Unique
Hazelnut coffee has earned its place as a flavored coffee favorite for good reason. With its sweet, nutty aroma and smooth, comforting taste, it's a staple in many kitchens. But what exactly is hazelnut coffee? And what makes one version stand out from another?
In this guide, we’ll explore the flavor profile, how hazelnut coffee is made, brewing suggestions, and what to look for in a high-quality hazelnut roast.
What Does Hazelnut Coffee Taste Like?
Hazelnut coffee typically has a warm, rich flavor that blends the natural notes of coffee with the essence of toasted hazelnuts. When done right, it’s smooth, slightly sweet, and incredibly aromatic. The best hazelnut coffees strike a balance—you taste the nutty flavor without overpowering the character of the coffee itself.
At Mississippi Mud Coffee, our Hazelnut Whole Bean Coffee is small-batch, air-roasted to avoid bitterness and infused with our signature hazelnut flavoring. The result is a smooth, balanced cup that lets the coffee shine alongside the flavor.
How Is Hazelnut Coffee Made?
Hazelnut coffee can be created in a few different ways:
- Flavored Beans: This is what we do at Mississippi Mud. The coffee is roasted and then infused with natural or artificial flavor oils to capture the essence of hazelnut. This method provides a consistent and well-integrated flavor.
- Hazelnut Syrup: Some coffee drinkers add hazelnut syrup to brewed coffee. This allows for customizable sweetness and intensity, though it often tastes more sugary and less authentic than flavored beans.
- Hazelnut Creamer: A popular method in home brewing. Hazelnut creamer combines dairy (or non-dairy) cream with hazelnut flavor and sweetener. It offers convenience, though the taste can vary significantly depending on the brand.
All three methods have their place, but if you're after rich flavor without excessive sugar or additives, flavored whole beans are often the best choice.
Does Hazelnut Coffee Contain Nuts?
This is a common concern. While hazelnut-flavored coffee often tastes like real hazelnuts, most flavored coffees do not contain actual nut ingredients. That said, if you have a nut allergy, it's always best to check with the roaster to confirm. At Mississippi Mud Coffee, our flavoring does not contain actual nuts, but we always recommend caution for individuals with severe allergies.
Brewing Hazelnut Coffee at Home
You can brew hazelnut coffee just like you would any standard whole bean coffee. Here are a few tips for the best flavor:
- Grind Fresh: For whole bean coffee, grind just before brewing. A medium grind works well for drip machines and pour-over; use a coarser grind for French press.
- Water Temperature: Aim for water between 195–205°F for optimal extraction.
- Coffee-to-Water Ratio: A good starting point is 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water, adjusted to taste.
- Serve Black or Enhanced: Hazelnut coffee is delicious on its own, but you can also enhance it with a splash of milk or your favorite creamer for a more indulgent cup.
Is Hazelnut Coffee Good for You?
Black hazelnut coffee made from flavored beans is low in calories, just like regular coffee. Most of the health concerns come from added creamers and syrups, which can introduce sugar and fat. If you're watching your intake, flavored beans are a great way to enjoy hazelnut flavor without the extra calories.
Why Choose Mississippi Mud Hazelnut Coffee?
Our hazelnut coffee stands out for a few key reasons:
- Air Roasted: We use a zero-carbon, air-roasting process that ensures a smooth, non-bitter cup every time.
- Small-Batch Quality: Every roast is carefully crafted to maintain consistency and rich flavor.
- Ethically Sourced: Our beans come from farmers who are paid fair, sustainable wages through our partnership with Thrive Farmers International.
Ready to Try It?
Mississippi Mud's Hazelnut Coffee is roasted for flavor, never bitterness. With a sweet aroma and smooth finish, it's a classic worth savoring.