Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso: The Ultimate Guide & Recipe

Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso: Prepare to be utterly captivated by this delightful coffee creation that’s taking the beverage world by storm! Imagine the rich, nutty aroma of toasted hazelnuts mingling with the smooth, creamy texture of oat milk, all perfectly balanced by the invigorating kick of espresso. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience, a moment of pure indulgence that you can easily recreate in your own kitchen.

While the “shaken espresso” concept has roots in Italian coffee culture, the addition of hazelnut and oat milk is a modern twist, reflecting our growing appreciation for plant-based alternatives and exciting flavor combinations. Think of it as a contemporary take on the classic caffè shakerato, adapted for the discerning palates of today’s coffee lovers.

What makes this hazelnut oatmilk shaken espresso so irresistible? It’s the symphony of flavors and textures. The hazelnut adds a warm, comforting sweetness that complements the bitterness of the espresso, while the oat milk provides a velvety smoothness that’s both satisfying and dairy-free. Plus, the shaking process creates a delightful frothy texture that elevates the entire drinking experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up in the morning or a sophisticated afternoon treat, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious – what’s not to love?

Ingredients:

• For the Hazelnut Syrup:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• For the Shaken Espresso:
• Double shot of espresso (about 2 ounces) – I prefer a dark roast for this!
• 1 tablespoon hazelnut syrup (or more, to taste)
• ½ cup oat milk (barista blend recommended for extra frothiness)
• Ice cubes
• Optional: Whipped cream or dairy-free whipped topping for garnish
• Optional: Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish

Preparing the Hazelnut Syrup

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the homemade hazelnut syrup! Trust me, making your own syrup is so much better than store-bought. It’s fresher, more flavorful, and you know exactly what’s going in it. Plus, the aroma while it’s simmering is heavenly!

1. Toast the Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fragrant and the skins start to crack. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily. Once toasted, let them cool slightly, then rub them in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much of the skins as possible. Don’t worry if you can’t get all the skins off. Roughly chop the toasted hazelnuts.
2. Combine Sugar and Water: In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water.
3. Simmer the Syrup: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the sugar is dissolved, bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add Hazelnuts: Add the chopped toasted hazelnuts to the simmering syrup.
5. Infuse the Flavor: Reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the hazelnut flavor to infuse into the syrup. The syrup will thicken slightly as it simmers.
6. Strain the Syrup: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Place a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth (or a very fine-mesh sieve) over a heat-safe bowl or jar. Carefully pour the syrup through the sieve to remove the hazelnuts. This will give you a smooth, clear syrup.
7. Add Vanilla and Salt: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt. The salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the hazelnut flavor.
8. Cool and Store: Let the syrup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, such as a glass jar. Store the hazelnut syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The syrup will thicken further as it cools.

Making the Shaken Espresso

Now that our hazelnut syrup is ready, let’s move on to the shaken espresso! This is where the magic happens. Shaking the espresso with ice creates a frothy, chilled drink that’s perfect for a pick-me-up any time of day.

1. Prepare the Espresso: Brew a double shot of espresso using your preferred method (espresso machine, Moka pot, Aeropress, etc.). I find that a dark roast coffee works best to stand up to the sweetness of the syrup and the creaminess of the oat milk. Let the espresso cool slightly. You don’t want to add hot espresso to the ice, as it will melt the ice too quickly and dilute the drink.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Shaker: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the cooled espresso, hazelnut syrup (start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to your taste), and oat milk to the shaker.
3. Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid tightly on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds. The goal is to chill the espresso and create a frothy texture. You should hear the ice rattling around in the shaker.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the shaken espresso into a glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish (Optional): If desired, top with whipped cream or dairy-free whipped topping and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.
6. Enjoy! Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso!

Tips and Variations

Want to customize your shaken espresso? Here are a few ideas:

• Adjust the Sweetness: The amount of hazelnut syrup you use is entirely up to you. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of syrup or even use a sugar-free sweetener.
• Experiment with Different Milks: While I love oat milk for its creaminess and frothiness, you can use other types of milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary depending on the type of milk you use.
• Add a Dash of Spice: For a warm and cozy twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the shaker along with the other ingredients.
• Make it Iced Coffee: If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use strong brewed coffee instead. Just make sure to let it cool completely before adding it to the shaker.
• Hazelnut Extract: If you’re short on time, you can use hazelnut extract instead of making the syrup from scratch. Add a few drops of hazelnut extract to the shaker along with the espresso and milk. However, the flavor won’t be as rich and complex as the homemade syrup.
• Make it a Frappe: For an even more indulgent treat, blend the shaken espresso with a few scoops of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.
• Add a Shot of Liqueur: For an adult version, add a shot of hazelnut liqueur (such as Frangelico) or coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua) to the shaker.

Storing Leftover Hazelnut Syrup

If you have any leftover hazelnut syrup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can use it to sweeten coffee, tea, cocktails, or even drizzle it over pancakes or waffles. It’s also delicious in homemade ice cream or yogurt.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it combines the rich, nutty flavor of homemade hazelnut syrup with the bold taste of espresso and the creamy texture of oat milk. Shaking the ingredients with ice creates a frothy, chilled drink that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The homemade hazelnut syrup is the key to this recipe, as it provides a depth of flavor that you just can’t get from store-bought syrups. Plus, making your own syrup allows you to control the sweetness and ingredients.

Troubleshooting

• Syrup Too Thick: If your hazelnut syrup is too thick, add a little bit of water to thin it out.
• Syrup Not Sweet Enough: If your hazelnut syrup isn’t sweet enough, add a little bit more sugar.
• Espresso Too Bitter: If your espresso is too bitter, try using a different coffee roast or adjusting the grind size. You can also add a little bit more hazelnut syrup to balance the bitterness.
• Drink Not Frothy Enough: If your shaken espresso isn’t frothy enough, make sure you’re shaking it vigorously for at least 20-30 seconds. You can also try using a different type of milk or adding a splash of heavy cream.

Health Considerations

While this Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso is a delicious treat, it’s important to be mindful of the sugar content. The hazelnut syrup contains sugar, so if you’re watching your sugar intake, you may want to reduce the amount of syrup you use or use a sugar-free sweetener. Oat milk is generally a good source of fiber and nutrients, but it can also be higher in carbohydrates than some other types of milk. If you have any dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Saucepan
• Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
• Heat-safe bowl or jar
• Cocktail shaker
• Espresso machine or Moka pot (or other coffee brewing method)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Variations for Dietary Needs

Conclusion:

This Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso isn’t just another coffee recipe; it’s a delightful experience waiting to happen. The combination of rich espresso, the subtle sweetness of hazelnut, and the creamy texture of oat milk creates a symphony of flavors that will awaken your senses and leave you feeling invigorated. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it the perfect treat for busy mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or even a sophisticated dessert alternative. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation! But why is this particular recipe a must-try? It’s all about the balance. The shaking process chills the espresso and creates a beautiful, frothy texture that elevates it beyond a simple iced coffee. The hazelnut syrup adds a touch of warmth and nuttiness that complements the bitterness of the espresso perfectly, while the oat milk provides a creamy, dairy-free base that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s a coffee shop-quality drink you can easily make at home, saving you time and money without sacrificing flavor. Serving Suggestions and Variations: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a richer, more decadent treat, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder on top. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, use a double shot of espresso or add a splash of cold brew concentrate. Looking for variations? Consider these options: * Spiced Hazelnut Shaken Espresso: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the shaker for a warm, comforting twist. * Vanilla Hazelnut Shaken Espresso: Substitute vanilla syrup for half of the hazelnut syrup for a sweeter, more aromatic drink. * Caramel Hazelnut Shaken Espresso: Drizzle caramel sauce inside the glass before adding the espresso mixture for a touch of indulgence. * Mocha Hazelnut Shaken Espresso: Add a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder to the shaker for a chocolatey delight. * Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Latte: For a less intense version, pour the shaken espresso over a taller glass filled with ice and top with additional oat milk. And for those who prefer a completely different flavor profile, you can easily swap out the hazelnut syrup for other flavors like caramel, vanilla, or even lavender. The possibilities are endless! You can also adjust the sweetness level to your liking by adding more or less syrup. Time to Shake Things Up! I truly believe that this Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso is a game-changer. It’s a simple yet elegant drink that’s sure to impress your friends and family, or simply brighten your own day. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, grab your shaker, and get ready to experience coffee bliss. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover your own favorite variations. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and comments below, and let me know what tweaks you made to personalize it. Did you add a special spice? Did you try a different syrup? I’m eager to learn from your creations and continue to improve this recipe together. Happy shaking!

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