Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato

Name: Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 shots of espresso; 1 cup of milk; 2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup; 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce; Whipped cream (optional); Cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first tried making a Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato at home, I was surprised by how easy it was to recreate this café favorite. With just a few simple ingredients – hazelnut syrup, espresso, and creamy milk – I discovered how satisfying it is to customize each cup to my taste. The combination of nutty hazelnut and rich caramel creates a delicious balance, making it a perfect pick-me-up for any time of day. Now, I can enjoy my favorite drink without the café price tag!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:17:27.723Z

Making my own Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato at home has completely transformed my coffee experience. I love playing around with the ratios of espresso to milk, and I can control the sweetness with the caramel and hazelnut syrup, depending on my mood. One key tip I’ve learned is to froth the milk just enough so it’s creamy but not overly airy, which elevates the drink significantly.

In experimenting with this recipe, I also discovered that using freshly brewed espresso produces the best flavor – it cuts through the sweetness of the caramel and enhances the overall nutty aroma of the hazelnut. Trust me, once you nail down this method, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought versions!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously nutty flavor with a hint of caramel sweetness
Perfect creamy texture that satisfies every sip
Easily customizable for every coffee lover's taste

Understanding Your Ingredients

The key to a memorable Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato lies in the quality of its ingredients. Use fresh, high-quality espresso beans for brewing your shots; the flavor profile will significantly impact the overall taste. If you're using a pre-made hazelnut syrup, check for natural ingredients, as artificial flavors can often overpower the subtle nuttiness you want in your drink. High-quality milk contributes to the creamy texture, so consider using whole milk or even oat milk for a plant-based option that froths nicely.

Caramel sauce can vary greatly in sweetness and texture. If you have time, making your own will yield a richer flavor, but if you're short on time, store-bought options work just fine. Experiment with different brands to find one that suits your palate, as some can be thicker or contain a stronger buttery taste, which may affect the overall flavor balance. Remember, a little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and adjust to your taste.

Perfecting Your Frothing Technique

Frothing milk is an art that can make a huge difference in your Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato. If you're using a saucepan, heat the milk slowly over medium heat and avoid boiling, which can create a grainy texture. Instead, look for subtle steam rising, aiming for a temperature around 150°F (65°C). If using a frother, give it a good mix until you achieve a glossy, velvety finish with microbubbles; it should almost double in volume and maintain a smooth texture. I recommend practicing this technique to find your preferred froth level.

If you find your milk doesn’t froth as expected, it may be due to the fat content or the type of milk used. For example, low-fat milk can produce larger bubbles that don't incorporate well. Try using whole milk or a barista blend of plant-based milk, as they often have added emulsifiers that aid frothing. Additionally, maintain a consistent motion while frothing, as this helps create a more uniform texture, resulting in a delightful mouthfeel with each sip.

Ingredients

For the Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato

2 shots of espresso
1 cup of milk
2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup
2 tablespoons of caramel sauce
Whipped cream (optional)
Cocoa powder for garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients for an indulgent coffee treat.

Instructions

Brew the Espresso

Start by brewing two shots of your favorite espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong coffee can work as a substitute for this recipe.

Froth the Milk

In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Use a milk frother or whisk vigorously to create a creamy, frothy texture.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mug, add the hazelnut syrup and caramel sauce. Slowly pour in the brewed espresso followed by the frothed milk, creating a layered effect.

Add Toppings

Finish with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top, drizzled with additional caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for garnish if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the caramel—it enhances the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

While the Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato is delightful on its own, consider serving it alongside a sweet treat to elevate your coffee experience. Dark chocolate or a slice of hazelnut torte pairs beautifully with the flavors of your macchiato, enhancing the nutty profile. For a more indulgent experience, think about preparing a small dessert board featuring cookies, biscotti, or even mini pastries—perfect for that café-style enjoyment right in your kitchen!

If you're hosting a brunch or casual get-together, you can set up a DIY coffee station. Offer various syrups, a selection of milk types, and flavored whipped creams. This way, guests can customize their drinks to their liking, making it interactive and fun. You might even consider offering a non-caffeinated version using decaf espresso or a rich herbal tea as an alternative.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you make an extra Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato, it's best to store the components separately. The espresso can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but reheating it can affect the flavor. To avoid bitterness, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave in short increments, stirring frequently until it's warm. However, freshly brewed espresso will always yield the best taste, so it’s worth brewing just what you plan to consume if possible.

For leftover frothy milk, you can reheat it similarly, but keep in mind it may lose some of its original texture. To refresh it, consider re-frothing after warming; this can help regain some of that delightful creaminess. If you're looking to prepare ahead, you can even pre-measure your hazelnut syrup and caramel sauce in individual containers, making it quick and easy to whip up a fresh drink whenever you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy-free milk of your choice.

→ How can I adjust the sweetness?

Feel free to add more or less hazelnut syrup and caramel sauce according to your taste preference.

→ Can I use decaffeinated coffee?

Absolutely! Decaf espresso works perfectly in this recipe for a milder option.

→ How do I store leftover ingredients?

Store any leftover hazelnut syrup and caramel sauce in the refrigerator for up to a month; they can be used in various desserts and drinks.