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 milk (any kind); 2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup; 1 tablespoon homemade caramel sauce; Whipped cream (optional); 1 cup sugar; 6 tablespoons butter, cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love starting my day with a Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato! The rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts combined with smooth caramel creates a deliciously balanced treat that brightens my mornings. I often experiment with different milk options and find that oat milk complements the hazelnut perfectly. This recipe is my go-to for crafting a café-style drink at home, and it always delivers on taste and satisfaction. It's a delightful blend of bold espresso, creamy texture, and that hint of caramel sweetness that makes it truly special.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:29:28.395Z

When I first tried making a Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato at home, I was amazed at how simple it was to elevate my morning ritual. We brewed a strong shot of espresso and paired it with frothy milk, but the real magic happened when we drizzled homemade caramel on top. This added depth to the drink and made it feel luxurious. I learned that using quality espresso beans makes a world of difference in flavor.

My favorite part about this recipe is the balance of flavors—the nuttiness of the hazelnut and the sweetness of the caramel create a delightful experience. To enhance the taste, I recommend toasting the hazelnuts before blending them into the milk, adding a warm, toasty flavor that transforms the recipe. Creating your version of this drink can be an enjoyable challenge!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Rich nutty flavor complemented by sweet caramel drizzle
Creamy and frothy texture that feels indulgent
Perfect pick-me-up for a busy morning

Mastering the Caramel Sauce

The caramel sauce is the star of this Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato, adding depth and richness to the drink. When melting the sugar, keep an eye on the heat—medium is ideal. Stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves and turns a golden color. If it begins to smoke or turns too dark, it can quickly become bitter. Once you've added the butter, the mixture should bubble vigorously, so be cautious to avoid splatters as you whisk in the cream.

Using a heavy-bottomed saucepan helps distribute heat evenly, reducing the risk of burning the sugar. When incorporating the heavy cream, do so slowly; the mixture will bubble up, and handling it carefully will prevent burns. Once combined, the caramel should be glossy and pourable. Allow it to cool completely; it thickens as it cools, making it easier to drizzle over your drink without washing away the froth.

Perfecting Your Brew

Choosing the right espresso is crucial for a bold flavor profile in this macchiato. If using an espresso machine, slightly tamp down the grounds to ensure an even extraction. For a substitute, consider a rich, dark roast coffee brewed at a higher strength—aim for about a cup of coffee containing at least two tablespoons of ground coffee. This method ensures you won't lose that robust flavor in your final drink.

Experimenting with different espresso beans can also enhance your beverage significantly. A nutty or chocolatey roast aligns beautifully with the hazelnut syrup and caramel. Meanwhile, the brewing temperature should be around 190°F to 205°F. This ranges optimal extraction without burning the coffee. It’s essential to brew directly into a pre-warmed cup to maintain temperature integrity, especially as you layer in the frothy milk.

Customizing Your Macchiato

Customization is a delightful aspect of the Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato. Depending on your dietary preference, you can easily swap dairy for alternatives like oat, almond, or coconut milk. Oat milk offers a creamy texture that complements the drink beautifully, while almond milk provides a lighter option. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using whole milk or half-and-half to enhance the creaminess.

You can also adjust the sweetness according to your taste. If you want a more pronounced hazelnut flavor, increase the hazelnut syrup slightly or infuse your milk with additional hazelnut essence while frothing. Lastly, try adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel sauce to elevate its flavor and balance the sweetness. This small addition enhances the overall taste, making each sip even more satisfying.

Ingredients for Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato

For the Drink

2 shots of espresso
1 cup milk (any kind)
2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup
1 tablespoon homemade caramel sauce
Whipped cream (optional)

For the Caramel Sauce

1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons butter, cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Combine all ingredients and prepare according to the steps below. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Steps to Make Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and becomes a golden brown caramel. Carefully add the cubed butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing well. Let it cool slightly before using.

Brew the Espresso

Brew two shots of espresso using your preferred method. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong coffee can work as a substitute.

Froth the Milk

Using a milk frother or a whisk, froth your milk until it’s light and airy. If you like it sweeter, stir in hazelnut syrup while frothing.

Assemble the Drink

In a mug, first pour in the hazelnut syrup. Add the hot espresso shots, followed by the frothed milk. Finally, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top, and add whipped cream if desired.

Delight in the aroma and flavor of your homemade Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, try using homemade nut milk for added flavor and creaminess. Also, feel free to adjust the sweetness of the caramel to suit your taste.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your Hazelnut Caramel Macchiato, a sprinkle of cocoa powder or finely chopped hazelnuts on top of the whipped cream can add a delightful texture and visual appeal. Additionally, this drink pairs wonderfully with a light pastry or biscotti for a complete café experience at home. If you're hosting a brunch, consider preparing a large batch of caramel sauce ahead of time for easy assembly.

For the ultimate indulgent treat, try serving it alongside a slice of hazelnut torte or a chocolate croissant. These complementary flavors enhance the nutty profile of your drink, making it more than just a morning pick-me-up. Remember, temperature plays a significant role; enjoy it warm for the best experience, but it can also be served iced for those warmer days.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you are preparing for a busy morning, make the caramel sauce a few days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it returns to a pourable consistency. This makes it easy to craft your macchiato without the time commitment during your morning rush.

The frothing of milk can also be done ahead of time if you're using a milk frother. Simply froth and store it in a covered container in the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy, give it a shake and re-froth. This preparation helps you skip the waiting time and ensures your drink has that delightful foam on top, making every macchiato as special as the first one you made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this drink without an espresso machine?

Yes! You can use a strong brewed coffee instead of espresso. Just ensure it's concentrated for the best flavor.

→ How do I store leftover caramel sauce?

You can store leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just reheat it gently before using.

→ Can I substitute the sugar in the caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or coconut sugar for a healthier option. Adjust cooking time slightly based on the sugar type.

→ Is this drink suitable for those with nut allergies?

Unfortunately, this recipe contains hazelnut syrup, which is not suitable for those with nut allergies. You can substitute it with a different syrup flavor.