The Search for the Best Hazelnut Coffees of 2024

Are you a fan of hazelnut flavored coffee? Then look no further, as we have researched and tested the best hazelnut coffee brands of the year. Hazelnut coffee has long been a favorite for those looking for a sweet and nutty coffee experience. And with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one to choose. In this blog, we will delve into our top picks for the best hazelnut coffees of 2024.

What Is Flavored Coffee?

Flavored coffee is essentially coffee beans that have been coated with flavor compounds to supplement the coffee’s natural taste. These flavors can range from fruits to spices and, in the case of our discussion, hazelnut. This process typically occurs after the beans are roasted and before they are ground. The key to a good flavored coffee, like hazelnut, is to balance the flavoring with the coffee’s natural flavor profile so that neither is overpowering. It’s all about enhancing, not masking, the coffee’s inherent characteristics. Now, let’s take a look at the top hazelnut coffees of 2024.

Origin Of Flavored Coffee…

The origin story of flavored coffee is as fascinating as the myriad flavors it offers today. Flavored coffees are not a recent invention; they date back centuries to the Middle East, where the tradition of coffee drinking began. The early coffee drinkers, seeking to enhance and vary the taste of their brew, began adding spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg during the brewing process.

The idea was to add a unique touch to the coffee, making it more than just a beverage but an experience. As trade routes widened and coffee reached new shores, different cultures began introducing their local flavors, leading to the rich diversity we see in flavored coffee today.

So Hazelnut Flavored Coffee Is…

Hazelnut coffee, as a distinct flavor, is believed to have emerged in the United States around the mid-20th century, although the exact date remains indeterminate. Hazelnut, being a popular flavoring in many culinary preparations, was a natural choice when it came to enhancing the taste of coffee.

The rich, buttery, and slightly sweet taste of the hazelnut was found to complement the robustness of coffee, creating a delightful combination that quickly gained popularity.

This paved the way for the emergence of a wide variety of nut-flavored coffees. Today, hazelnut coffee is cherished by coffee lovers worldwide for its unique taste and aroma that adds a touch of indulgence to the coffee experience.

How Flavored Coffee Is Made…

The process of making flavored coffee begins with selecting and roasting the coffee beans. The beans are chosen based on their inherent flavor profile, which should ideally complement the flavoring to be added. The roasting process is also critical in developing the coffee’s flavor as it brings out the oils and sugars in the coffee beans, which contribute to its taste.

After roasting, the beans are left to cool before flavoring. The flavor compounds, which are often in liquid form, are then added to the beans. These compounds are typically made up of natural or artificial flavorings, which are designed to mimic the taste and aroma of specific ingredients, like hazelnut in our case. The amount of flavoring added depends on the desired intensity of the flavor.

Once the flavoring is added, the beans are mixed to ensure even coating and left to dry. The drying process allows the flavoring to fully absorb into the beans without making them overly damp or affecting their grind.

Flavored coffee can remain fresh for up to a year if stored properly. It is best served soon after brewing to capture the full richness of its aroma and taste.

Reviewing The Best Hazelnut Coffees Of 2024

Without further ado, let’s dive into the reviews of the best hazelnut coffees. We’ve sampled and analyzed a myriad of brands, each offering their unique spin on this classic flavor.

Criteria such as aroma, taste profile, hazelnut authenticity, and balance with coffee undertones were considered. We also looked at customer reviews and brand reputation. Whether you’re a seasoned hazelnut coffee lover or eager to try something new, our selection has something to cater to every palate.

So sit back, grab your favorite coffee mug, and join us on this flavorful journey.

Dunkin’ Donuts Medium Roast Hazelnut

Dunkin’ Donuts is a household name when it comes to coffee. Their Medium Roast Hazelnut coffee boasts a sweet, nutty flavor that does not disappoint. Unlike some flavored coffee brands, Dunkin’ Donuts manages to incorporate the hazelnut flavor without it tasting artificial. This coffee tastes great as a morning pick-me-up or an after-dinner treat.

Key Features

• Origin: Sourced from 100% Arabica beans, the Dunkin’ Donuts Medium Roast Hazelnut has an impressive pedigree that ensures a smooth and flavorful cup of coffee every time
• Roast: As a medium roast, this coffee strikes a balance between the boldness of a dark roast and the lightness of a blonde roast. This roasting level brings out the nutty hazelnut flavor without sacrificing the inherent taste of the coffee beans
• Flavor: The hazelnut flavoring is noticeable but not overpowering, creating a harmonious blend that complements the coffee’s natural taste

Pros

• Well-balanced Flavor: The hazelnut flavor is subtle and blends seamlessly with the coffee’s natural taste, offering a well-rounded and satisfying coffee experience
• Broad Appeal: The medium roast level and the pleasing hazelnut flavor make this coffee a crowd-pleaser, suitable for a wide range of coffee drinkers
• Reputable Brand: Coming from Dunkin’ Donuts, a well-known and respected coffee brand, consumers can trust the quality and consistency of this product

Cons

• Not for Purists: Coffee purists may find the added flavors detract from the coffee’s natural taste
• Artificial Flavoring: Although the flavoring does not taste artificial, the product does use artificial flavors, which some consumers may prefer to avoid
• Contains Sugar: This flavored coffee contains added sugar, making it less suitable for those monitoring their sugar intake

Eight O’Clock Hazelnut Coffee

Eight O’Clock is renowned for their high-grade coffee beans, and their Hazelnut Coffee is no exception. This medium-roast coffee has a smooth taste with subtle notes of hazelnut. It is the perfect balance of coffee and hazelnut flavor. Eight O’Clock’s packaging ensures the coffee stays fresh, so you can enjoy this coffee for longer.

Key Features

• Origin: Eight O’Clock Hazelnut Coffee is derived from 100% Arabica beans, guaranteeing a high-quality brew
• Roast: This coffee has a medium roast level, offering a well-balanced flavor profile that brings out both the coffee’s natural notes and the hazelnut taste
• Flavor: The coffee has a smooth and refined taste with a subtle hint of hazelnut, providing a delightful blend without overpowering the coffee’s inherent taste

Pros

• High-Quality Beans: Eight O’Clock is known for their superior quality beans, ensuring a smooth and rich coffee experience
• Balanced Flavor: The coffee has a well-balanced flavor profile with the hazelnut taste harmoniously mixing with the coffee’s natural notes
• Fresh Packaging: The packaging is designed to keep the coffee fresh for a prolonged period, enhancing its shelf life and taste

Cons

• Subtle Flavor: Those preferring a stronger hazelnut taste might find the flavor too subtle
• Not for Purists: Like any flavored coffee, purists might not appreciate the added flavors
• Lack of Flavor Details: The packaging doesn’t clearly specify whether the hazelnut flavor is derived from natural or artificial sources, which might concern some consumers

Starbucks Hazelnut Coffee

Starbucks has taken their expertise in coffee flavors and created a Hazelnut Coffee that is sure to impress. This coffee has a rich, nutty flavor that is sure to delight any hazelnut lover. The taste is mellow, yet deliciously nutty and pairs perfectly with any breakfast item. This coffee is available in K-Cup and Whole Bean options, making it convenient to brew at home.

Key Features

• Origin: Starbucks Hazelnut Coffee is crafted from high-quality Arabica beans, synonymous with Starbucks’ commitment to quality
• Roast: This coffee is a medium roast, offering a balance between boldness and subtlety, perfectly highlighting the pleasant hazelnut flavor
• Flavor: The coffee possesses a rich, nutty flavor that is not too overpowering, perfectly complementing the inherent flavor of the coffee beans

Pros

• Signature Starbucks Quality: Being a Starbucks product, the coffee guarantees the brand’s signature quality and consistency
• Versatile Brewing Options: Available in both K-Cup and Whole Bean options, this coffee provides versatility to suit your preferred brewing method
• Balanced Flavor: The rich hazelnut flavor works in harmony with the natural taste of the coffee, providing a balanced and delightful coffee experience

Cons

• Taste Subjectivity: Those who prefer a stronger hazelnut flavor might find this blend a bit too subtle
• Not for Coffee Purists: Traditional coffee lovers might find the added flavors detract from the coffee’s natural taste
• Premium Priced: Compared to other brands, Starbucks coffee may be considered more expensive

Seattle’s Best Coffee Hazelnut

Seattle’s Best Coffee has managed to perfect the art of Hazelnut Coffee with their medium roast offering. The coffee is not too strong, nor too weak, and the hazelnut flavor is robust enough to satisfy any hazelnut lover’s craving. Seattle’s Best has created an excellent blend of coffee and hazelnut that delivers a well-rounded coffee experience.

Key Features

• Origin: Seattle’s Best Coffee Hazelnut is a blend of premium Arabica beans, known for their high quality and rich flavor profile
• Roast: With a medium roast level, this coffee offers a well-balanced flavor, maintaining the integrity of the coffee’s natural taste while highlighting the hazelnut flavor
• Flavor: The coffee provides a strong hazelnut flavor that perfectly complements the coffee’s inherent taste, delivering a robust and satisfying coffee experience

Pros

• Distinct Flavor: The robust hazelnut flavor is easily distinguishable, making it ideal for those who love a strong hazelnut presence in their coffee.
• Quality Beans: As a product of Seattle’s Best, the coffee is made from high-quality Arabica beans, ensuring a smooth and rich flavor.
• Balanced Roast: The medium roast brings out the best in both the coffee and hazelnut flavors, providing a well-rounded coffee experience.

Cons

• Strong Flavor: Those who prefer a subtler flavor might find the hazelnut taste too overpowering
• Not for Purists: Coffee purists who prefer their coffee without added flavors might not appreciate this blend
• Packaging: Some consumers may find the packaging not ideal for maintaining the coffee’s freshness over an extended period

Tim Horton’s Hazelnut Coffee

Tim Horton’s is a Canadian coffee staple and their Hazelnut Coffee is one of their best-selling flavors. The coffee has a pleasing aroma and boasts a rich hazelnut taste that pairs well with any breakfast item. Tim Horton’s Hazelnut Coffee has a slightly acidic taste, making it a great choice for those who prefer a bold and savory brew.

Key Features

• Origin: Tim Horton’s Hazelnut Coffee is a product of high-quality Arabica beans, a testament to Tim Horton’s commitment to quality
• Roast: This coffee is a medium roast, offering a balance of strength and subtlety, perfectly bringing out the distinctive hazelnut flavor
• Flavor: The coffee showcases a rich hazelnut flavor that is neither too strong nor weak, harmonizing beautifully with the inherent flavor of the coffee beans

Pros

• Reputed Brand Quality: As a product of Tim Horton’s, this coffee guarantees the brand’s signature quality and consistency
• Balanced Flavor: The rich hazelnut flavor coexists harmoniously with the natural coffee taste, offering a balanced and delightful drink
• Versatile Pairing: The slightly acidic edge of this coffee makes it an excellent pairing option with a variety of breakfast items

Cons

• Taste Subjectivity: Those who prefer a more pronounced hazelnut flavor might find this blend a little subtle
• Not for Coffee Purists: Traditional coffee enthusiasts might find the added flavors detract from the coffee’s natural taste
• Acidity: The slight acidic edge, though a pro for some, might not be appreciated by those who prefer a smoother, less acidic brew

Best Brewing Methods For Hazelnut Coffee

When it comes to brewing hazelnut coffee, there are several methods to consider depending on your coffee-making equipment and flavor preferences. Here are a few methods that we recommend:

1. French Press: The French press method allows all the flavors of the hazelnut coffee to be fully extracted. It involves steeping the coffee grounds in hot water for about 4 minutes before pressing down the plunger. This yields a strong coffee with a full-bodied hazelnut flavor
2. Pour Over: The pour-over method involves pouring hot water over the coffee grounds in a filter. The water then drips through the coffee and filters into a carafe or mug. This method allows the hazelnut flavor to shine, producing a clean-tasting and aromatic cup of coffee.
3. Cold Brew: Cold brewing involves steeping coffee grounds in room temperature or cold water for an extended period, usually 12-24 hours. This method results in a smooth, low-acid coffee that really highlights the sweetness of the hazelnut flavor
4. Espresso Machine: If you’re a fan of lattes or cappuccinos, using an espresso machine can bring out the rich, nutty flavor of hazelnut coffee. Simply brew a shot of espresso using the hazelnut coffee, then add steamed milk and foam to your liking

Remember, the best way to brew hazelnut coffee ultimately depends on your personal taste. Feel free to experiment with these methods or combine them to create your perfect cup of coffee.

Flavoring Hazelnut Flavored Coffee At Home…

Indeed, crafting your own hazelnut coffee at home is not only possible but also quite an enjoyable process. Here are some simple steps to guide you:

1. Choosing Your Beans: The first step is to select your coffee beans. You may choose either a light, medium, or dark roast, depending on your personal preference.
2. Preparing Hazelnuts: The next step involves preparing your hazelnuts. You will need to roast them in an oven or a pan to bring out their natural flavors. Once they are toasted and cooled, crush them into small pieces.
3. Brewing the Coffee: Add the crushed hazelnuts to your coffee grounds. For every cup of coffee, add one tablespoon of crushed hazelnuts. Brew your coffee as you usually would, either with a coffee machine, French press, or any other brewing method you prefer.
4. Straining the Coffee: Hazelnuts are not soluble in water, so you’ll need to strain your coffee to remove any remaining bits of hazelnut. A common method is to use a coffee filter or a fine mesh sieve.
5. Serving Your Coffee: Pour the freshly brewed hazelnut coffee into a cup. If desired, you can add cream, sugar, or even a sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts on top for garnish. Enjoy your homemade hazelnut coffee!

This homemade method allows you to control the intensity of the hazelnut flavor, and you can always experiment with different coffee and hazelnut ratios to find your perfect blend.

Is Hazelnut Coffee Suitable For Coffee Machines?

Yes, hazelnut-flavored coffee is suitable for coffee machines. However, it’s essential to ensure that the flavored coffee you’re using is correctly ground for your specific type of coffee machine. For instance, espresso machines typically require a fine grind, whereas drip coffee makers work best with a medium grind. It’s also worth noting that while flavored coffees can leave residue on your coffee machine’s components over time, regular cleaning and descaling can help maintain your coffee maker’s performance and longevity.

Is Flavored Coffee Good For Us?

While flavored coffees like hazelnut offer an enticing and varied experience, it’s also essential to consider their impact on human health. On the positive side, coffee itself has numerous health benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, can help boost cognitive functions, and may lower the risk of several diseases. The flavorings, however, can be a different story.

Natural flavorings derived from the actual ingredient (like hazelnuts) typically don’t pose a health risk unless you have a specific allergy. However, if artificial flavorings are used, it’s important to note that they are created in a lab using a variety of chemicals. While these are generally recognized as safe in small amounts, their long-term health effects are not fully understood, especially when consumed regularly over an extended period.

Lastly, flavored coffees are often paired with added sugars or sweeteners to enhance the taste, which could contribute to increased caloric intake. Therefore, if you’re watching your sugar intake or managing conditions like diabetes, it’s advisable to opt for unsweetened versions or flavored coffees with natural sweeteners.

In summary, like any food or beverage, flavored coffee can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, but it’s important to be mindful of what’s in your cup.

FAQs

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best hazelnut coffee cater to the needs of every coffee drinker. From those who prefer a milder taste to those who prefer a bold and flavorful brew, these hazelnut coffee brands have you covered. The Dunkin’ Donuts Medium Roast Hazelnut takes the top spot for its excellent balance of flavor, aroma, and affordability. Nevertheless, all the hazelnut coffees on our list make for a satisfying coffee experience. Start your day right by brewing a cup of one of our favorite hazelnut coffees.