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 (dairy or non-dairy); 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup; 1 tablespoon caramel sauce; Whipped cream (optional); Caramel drizzle for topping

Highlighted under: Sugar & Spice Desserts

I absolutely love brewing my own Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato at home. The rich combination of espresso, creamy milk, and a sweet hazelnut caramel syrup creates a luxurious drink that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make. Every sip feels like a little treat, especially when we drizzle extra caramel on top. Perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe never ceases to impress friends and family. It’s become my go-to way to elevate everyday coffee into something special.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:33:27.876Z

Making the perfect Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato is all about balance. I first experimented with different espresso strengths and found that a double shot really enhances the flavor without overpowering the smoothness of the milk. The key is to froth the milk properly; a nice, velvety microfoam makes all the difference in replicating that café-style experience.

Additionally, I discovered that letting the syrup sit for a few minutes before incorporating it into the drink allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I often garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for an aromatic twist that elevates the drink even further.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously nutty flavor complemented by sweet caramel notes
Creamy texture that will entice your taste buds
Easily customizable to meet your sweetness preference

Crafting the Perfect Espresso

The foundation of your Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato lies in the espresso. Ensure that you're using freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor. Aim for a grind that resembles table salt, which allows for optimal extraction during brewing. If you’re using an espresso machine, brew for about 25-30 seconds until you see a rich, golden crema forming on top, signaling that your espresso is pulled correctly.

If espresso isn't an option, a strong coffee from a French press can stand in. Use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15, steep for about 4 minutes, and be sure to use a dark roast for a comparable depth of flavor. The result should be robust enough to support the sweet flavors of the syrup and caramel.

Milk and Its Role

The milk not only contributes creaminess but serves to balance the strong flavors of espresso and hazelnut. Whole milk will provide the richest taste, but for lactose-free options, oat or almond milk can offer delightful results. When frothing, aim for a temperature of around 150°F (65°C). This is hot enough to create a velvety texture without scalding the milk, which can lead to a burnt flavor that detracts from your drink.

If you're aiming for a denser froth, whole or 2% milk tends to hold bubbles better compared to non-dairy alternatives. Practice makes perfect; if your froth isn't up to par, try reducing the amount of milk or make sure your frothing tool is clean and functioning properly.

Serving Suggestions and Customizations

Serving your Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato is just as important as preparing it. For an impressive presentation, use a clear glass that showcases the layers of espresso, hazelnut syrup, and frothy milk. Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder or finely chopped hazelnuts on top of the whipped cream for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.

If you decide to adjust the sweetness level, you have options besides the hazelnut syrup. Consider incorporating a splash of vanilla syrup or cinnamon for a different twist. Additionally, you can make a chilled version by blending the espresso, milk, and syrups with ice and using whipped cream as a topping for a refreshing summer drink.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your homebrew masterpiece:

Ingredients

2 shots of espresso
1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
1 tablespoon caramel sauce
Whipped cream (optional)
Caramel drizzle for topping

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato:

Brew Espresso

Start by brewing two shots of espresso using your preferred method. If you don't have an espresso machine, a strong coffee brewed with a French press will work as a substitute.

Froth Milk

In a separate container, froth your milk until it's creamy and velvety. You can use a milk frother, French press, or steam wand to achieve this texture.

Combine Ingredients

In your serving glass, add the hazelnut syrup. Pour the espresso shots over the syrup, followed by the frothed milk, allowing the milk to create a layered effect.

Add Toppings

Top your macchiato with a dollop of whipped cream (if desired) and drizzle with caramel sauce for that finishing touch.

Your delicious Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgence, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the caramel. It enhances the sweet and nutty flavors beautifully.

Storage Tips

While fresh macchiato is best enjoyed immediately, you can prepare a few components in advance. Brew and cool your espresso to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you can quickly assemble your macchiato when the mood strikes.

If you have leftover hazelnut syrup, keep it in the fridge as well. Store it in a clean bottle or jar, and it should remain good for several weeks. Just give it a shake before use, as it may settle over time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your espresso tastes bitter, it might be over-extracted. Try adjusting your grind to a coarser setting or reducing the brewing time slightly. Conversely, if it tastes weak, consider a finer grind or increasing the brewing duration.

For milk frothing, avoid overheating, as this can curdle the milk and ruin the texture. If your milk doesn't froth properly, ensure that your frothing tool is in good condition and that you're using the right type of milk for the desired frothiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaffeinated espresso?

Absolutely! Decaf espresso will work just as well for a delightful treat without the caffeine rush.

→ How can I make this vegan?

Simply substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk.

→ What types of syrups can I use?

You can experiment with different flavored syrups, such as vanilla or chocolate, to create your favorite twist on the classic.

→ Is there a way to make this iced?

Absolutely! Just brew the espresso, let it cool slightly, and serve it over ice with cold milk and syrups for a refreshing iced version.