Are you tired of store-bought coffee creamers filled with artificial ingredients and questionable additives? Craving that rich, nutty flavor without the guilt? Then look no further! This homemade hazelnut coffee creamer recipe is incredibly easy, uses wholesome ingredients, and delivers a deliciously creamy, nutty flavor that will elevate your morning coffee routine. It’s the perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas, making even a simple cup of coffee feel like a luxurious treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw hazelnuts
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Roasting the Hazelnuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Skinning the Hazelnuts (Optional but Recommended)
Once cooled, place the hazelnuts in a clean kitchen towel and rub vigorously to remove most of the skins. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it results in a smoother, less bitter creamer.
Step 3: Blending the Creamer
Add the roasted hazelnuts, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed. For an extra-silky texture, blend for an additional minute or two.
Step 4: Strain (Optional)
For an even smoother creamer, you can strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining hazelnut bits.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy!
Pour the hazelnut coffee creamer into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week. Enjoy a spoonful in your morning coffee, tea, or even oatmeal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Hazelnut Coffee Creamer:
- Toasting the hazelnuts: This step is crucial for enhancing their flavor. Don't over-toast them, or they'll become bitter.
- Adjust sweetness: The amount of maple syrup is adjustable to your preference. Start with less and add more until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Experiment with flavors: Add a dash of cinnamon, cardamom, or even a pinch of cocoa powder for a unique twist.
Variations:
- Dairy-free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free using almond milk, but feel free to substitute with other plant-based milks like soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Nut-free: While this recipe centers around hazelnuts, you could explore other nut options like cashews or almonds for a similar creamy texture, adjusting the liquid accordingly.
- Spiced Creamer: Infuse warmth by adding a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 8-10g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Sugar: 4-6g
This homemade hazelnut coffee creamer is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your daily coffee ritual. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes and delicious dishes you can create at home using readily available ingredients. Enjoy the creamy, nutty goodness! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes. This simple addition to your homemade cooking will become a new favorite!