As a coffee connoisseur, you’re likely no stranger to the vast array of flavors and ingredients that Starbucks has to offer. From the rich aroma of their signature roasts to the velvety texture of their whipped cream, every sip is a sensory experience. But have you ever wondered which Starbucks drink features the distinct, nutty flavor of hazelnut? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Starbucks’ hazelnut-infused beverages and uncover the answer to this question.
A Brief History of Hazelnut in Coffee Culture
Before we dive into the world of Starbucks, let’s take a brief look at the history of hazelnut in coffee culture. Hazelnuts have been a staple ingredient in many cuisines for centuries, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of hazelnuts pairs perfectly with the bold, rich flavor of coffee, making it a natural addition to many coffee-based drinks.
In the 1990s, hazelnut-flavored coffee syrups began to gain popularity in coffee shops across the United States. These syrups were often made with a combination of hazelnut extract, sugar, and water, and were added to coffee drinks to give them a unique flavor profile. Today, hazelnut is a staple flavor in many coffee shops, including Starbucks.
Starbucks’ Hazelnut Offerings
So, which Starbucks drink features hazelnut? The answer is the Hazelnut Latte. This drink is made with espresso, steamed milk, and a hint of hazelnut syrup, topped with a layer of foam. The hazelnut syrup adds a rich, nutty flavor to the drink, balancing out the bold flavor of the espresso.
But the Hazelnut Latte isn’t the only Starbucks drink that features hazelnut. The Hazelnut Macchiato is another popular drink that combines espresso, steamed milk, and hazelnut syrup, topped with a dollop of whipped cream. This drink is similar to the Hazelnut Latte, but with a stronger espresso flavor and a more subtle hazelnut flavor.
Hazelnut Syrup: The Key to Starbucks’ Hazelnut Flavor
So, what makes Starbucks’ hazelnut syrup so special? According to the company’s website, their hazelnut syrup is made with a combination of hazelnut extract, sugar, and water. The syrup is designed to add a rich, nutty flavor to coffee drinks without overpowering the other ingredients.
But what really sets Starbucks’ hazelnut syrup apart is the quality of the ingredients. The company uses high-quality hazelnut extract that is sourced from reputable suppliers, ensuring that the syrup has a rich, authentic flavor. Additionally, the syrup is made with real sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness to the drink without overpowering the other flavors.
A Closer Look at the Hazelnut Latte
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Starbucks’ hazelnut offerings, let’s take a closer look at the Hazelnut Latte. This drink is made with:
- 2 shots of espresso
- 3-4 pumps of hazelnut syrup
- 3-4 oz of steamed milk
- A layer of foam on top
The combination of espresso, hazelnut syrup, and steamed milk creates a rich, creamy flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating. The hazelnut syrup adds a subtle nutty flavor to the drink, balancing out the bold flavor of the espresso.
Customizing Your Hazelnut Latte
One of the best things about Starbucks is the ability to customize your drinks to your liking. If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few ways you can customize your Hazelnut Latte:
- Add an extra pump of hazelnut syrup: If you’re looking for a stronger hazelnut flavor, you can ask your barista to add an extra pump of syrup to your drink.
- Try a different type of milk: Starbucks offers a variety of milk options, including almond milk, soy milk, and coconut milk. You can ask your barista to substitute one of these milks for the steamed milk in your Hazelnut Latte.
- Add a shot of vanilla syrup: Vanilla and hazelnut are a match made in heaven, and adding a shot of vanilla syrup to your Hazelnut Latte can add a rich, creamy flavor to the drink.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hazelnut Latte is a delicious and unique drink that is sure to satisfy your coffee cravings. With its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture, this drink is a must-try for anyone who loves hazelnut. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking for a new drink to try, the Hazelnut Latte is a great choice.
So next time you’re at Starbucks, be sure to give the Hazelnut Latte a try. And don’t be afraid to customize your drink to your liking – with a little creativity, you can create a truly unique and delicious coffee experience.
| Drink | Ingredients | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Hazelnut Latte | Espresso, steamed milk, hazelnut syrup | 130-150 |
| Hazelnut Macchiato | Espresso, steamed milk, hazelnut syrup, whipped cream | 150-170 |
Note: The calorie counts listed above are approximate and may vary depending on the size and type of milk used.
What is the main flavor profile of the Starbucks drink featuring hazelnut?
The main flavor profile of the Starbucks drink featuring hazelnut is a rich and nutty taste, combined with a smooth and creamy texture. This unique flavor profile is achieved by combining hazelnut syrup with espresso and steamed milk.
The hazelnut flavor adds a deep and velvety texture to the drink, making it a popular choice among coffee lovers. The nutty flavor of hazelnut also complements the bold taste of espresso, creating a well-balanced and refreshing drink.
Which Starbucks drink features hazelnut as a main ingredient?
The Starbucks drink that features hazelnut as a main ingredient is the Hazelnut Latte. This drink is made with espresso, steamed milk, and hazelnut syrup, topped with a layer of foam. The Hazelnut Latte is a popular choice among coffee lovers who prefer a nutty and smooth flavor profile.
The Hazelnut Latte is available in various sizes, including Short, Tall, Grande, and Venti. Customers can also customize their drink by asking for whipped cream or an extra pump of hazelnut syrup.
Can I customize the amount of hazelnut syrup in my Starbucks drink?
Yes, you can customize the amount of hazelnut syrup in your Starbucks drink. If you prefer a stronger hazelnut flavor, you can ask for an extra pump of hazelnut syrup. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can ask for less hazelnut syrup.
To customize the amount of hazelnut syrup, simply let the barista know when you place your order. You can say something like, “I’ll have a Hazelnut Latte with an extra pump of hazelnut syrup, please.” This way, you can enjoy your drink exactly the way you like it.
Is the Hazelnut Latte available in all Starbucks locations?
The Hazelnut Latte is a standard menu item at most Starbucks locations. However, availability may vary depending on the location and region. Some Starbucks locations may not offer the Hazelnut Latte, or they may offer it as a seasonal drink.
If you’re unsure whether the Hazelnut Latte is available at your local Starbucks, you can check the Starbucks website or mobile app. You can also call the store directly to ask about their menu offerings.
Can I get a non-dairy version of the Hazelnut Latte?
Yes, you can get a non-dairy version of the Hazelnut Latte at Starbucks. Simply ask for a non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk, when you place your order. The barista will substitute the steamed milk with your preferred non-dairy milk.
Starbucks also offers a variety of non-dairy whipped cream options, including coconut whipped cream and almond milk whipped cream. You can ask for whipped cream on top of your non-dairy Hazelnut Latte for an extra treat.
How many calories are in a Hazelnut Latte?
The number of calories in a Hazelnut Latte varies depending on the size and type of milk used. A Grande Hazelnut Latte made with 2% milk contains approximately 240 calories. However, if you opt for a non-dairy milk alternative or whipped cream, the calorie count may be higher or lower.
To get an accurate estimate of the calorie count, you can check the Starbucks website or mobile app. You can also ask the barista for nutrition information when you place your order.
Can I make a Hazelnut Latte at home?
Yes, you can make a Hazelnut Latte at home using a few simple ingredients. You’ll need espresso, hazelnut syrup, steamed milk, and a milk frother or steam wand. You can also use a hazelnut-flavored coffee creamer or hazelnut syrup to make a simpler version of the drink.
To make a Hazelnut Latte at home, start by brewing a shot of espresso. Then, steam some milk and add a pump or two of hazelnut syrup. Combine the espresso and steamed milk, and top with foam or whipped cream. You can also experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients to create your own unique version of the Hazelnut Latte.