Chocolate Hazelnut Latte Recipe (Rich, Nutty & Café-Style)

Introduction

A chocolate hazelnut latte is the perfect drink for anyone who loves deep chocolate flavor paired with warm, nutty sweetness. It combines bold coffee, creamy milk, smooth chocolate, and aromatic hazelnut into one indulgent yet balanced cup.

The flavor is comforting and dessert-like, but still very much a coffee drink—ideal for mornings when you want something special or afternoons when you’re craving a cozy treat.
Many people first encounter this flavor combination at cafés such as Starbucks, where chocolate and hazelnut syrups are often paired together for a rich, crowd-pleasing latte. This chocolate hazelnut latte recipe lets you recreate that café-style experience at home using simple ingredients and easy steps. You’ll have full control over sweetness, chocolate intensity, and coffee strength, resulting in a smoother, fresher drink that’s customized exactly to your taste.

Background and Flavor Inspiration

Chocolate and hazelnut are a classic pairing found in desserts around the world. Hazelnuts add warmth and depth, while chocolate provides richness and balance. When combined with coffee, these flavors enhance espresso’s natural bitterness rather than masking it.
As flavored lattes became more popular, chocolate hazelnut quickly emerged as a favorite because it feels indulgent without being overwhelming. The milk softens the flavors, the chocolate adds body, and the hazelnut brings a subtle nutty aroma that lingers with every sip. Today, this latte is appreciated for its comforting profile and café-style sophistication.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich chocolate flavor with warm hazelnut notes
Creamy and smooth, never overpowering
Easy to make at home with everyday ingredients
Customizable sweetness and intensity
More affordable than café versions

Ingredients and Equipment

For the Chocolate Hazelnut Latte

Espresso or strong coffee – 1 shot (30 ml) or ½ cup strong brewed coffee (120 ml)
Milk – 1 cup (240 ml), dairy or plant-based
Chocolate syrup or cocoa mixture – 1½ to 2 tablespoons (22–30 ml)
Hazelnut syrup – 1 tablespoon (15 ml), adjust to taste
Sugar – optional, if extra sweetness is desired

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, while oat milk adds natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate and hazelnut. Almond milk produces a lighter drink, and low-fat milk keeps it less rich. If using cocoa powder instead of chocolate syrup, dissolve it with a small amount of hot water and sweetener to create a smooth base.

Equipment

Espresso machine, moka pot, or coffee maker
Small saucepan
Heat-resistant mug or glass
Spoon or whisk
Milk frother (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brew the Coffee

Prepare one shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee. If using brewed coffee, make it slightly stronger than usual so it balances the milk and chocolate flavors. Pour into your serving mug.

Step 2: Add Chocolate and Hazelnut

Add the chocolate syrup and hazelnut syrup directly to the hot coffee. Stir well until both flavors are fully dissolved and evenly combined.

Step 3: Heat the Milk

Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat gently over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until steaming but not boiling. Properly heated milk enhances sweetness and keeps the latte smooth.

Step 4: Froth the Milk (Optional)

Froth the milk using a handheld frother, whisk, or jar method. Aim for soft, silky foam rather than thick or airy bubbles.

Step 5: Assemble the Latte

Slowly pour the hot milk into the mug with the coffee mixture, holding back foam if desired. Spoon a small amount of foam on top for a café-style finish.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

Taste the latte and adjust sweetness if needed. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Expert Tips and Troubleshooting

Latte tastes bitter: Add a little more milk or chocolate.
Chocolate flavor too mild: Increase chocolate slightly in small amounts.
Hazelnut too strong: Reduce syrup and balance with milk.
Milk tastes flat: Avoid boiling and use fresh milk.
Foam disappears quickly: Froth milk just before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Iced Chocolate Hazelnut Latte

Let coffee cool slightly. Fill a glass with ice, add chocolate and hazelnut syrups, pour coffee over ice, then add cold milk and stir well.

Extra-Chocolate Version

Add an extra half tablespoon of chocolate syrup for a more dessert-like drink.

Light Chocolate Hazelnut Latte

Use low-fat milk and reduce chocolate slightly for a lighter option.

Strong Chocolate Hazelnut Latte

Add a second espresso shot to highlight the coffee flavor beneath the sweetness.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your chocolate hazelnut latte in a wide mug to highlight the creamy surface and foam. A light drizzle of chocolate on top or a dusting of cocoa powder enhances aroma and presentation. For iced versions, clear glasses show off the beautiful layers. Pair this latte with cookies, toast, or light pastries for a true café-style treat at home.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Chocolate hazelnut lattes are best enjoyed fresh. Brewed coffee can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 24 hours for iced versions. Chocolate and hazelnut syrups store well in the refrigerator for weeks when sealed. Milk should always be heated fresh for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without an espresso machine?

Yes. Strong brewed coffee or a moka pot works perfectly.

Is this drink very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, but you can easily control sweetness by adjusting the syrups.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely. Oat and almond milk both pair very well with chocolate and hazelnut flavors.

Conclusion

This chocolate hazelnut latte recipe brings together two classic flavors in a smooth, café-style coffee you can easily make at home. Rich chocolate, warm hazelnut, creamy milk, and bold coffee create a perfectly balanced drink that feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether you enjoy it hot for comfort or iced for refreshment, this homemade chocolate hazelnut latte is a reliable favorite you’ll want to make again and again. ☕🍫🌰