I'm going to share my special recipe. Anyway, if you don't have an espresso machine, don't worry—you can still get pretty close using a French press, Moka pot, or even a very strong drip coffee. It won't be exactly the same, but it's still a great alternative.
Milk frother (if you don't have one, a whisk or jar will work)
Steaming pitcher (or any small pot to heat the milk)
Ingredients
1-2 shots of espresso (or strong coffee)
1 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 tablespoons hazelnut syrup (I love using Torani hazelnut syrup for its rich, natural flavor)
Optional: Whipped cream for topping
Instructions
Brew the Espresso: Start by brewing 1-2 shots of espresso. If you're using a Moka pot or French press, make the coffee as strong as possible. The goal is to balance the milk and syrup. So a concentrated brew is essential.
Steam the Milk: Heat your milk in a steaming pitcher or small pot. If you're using a frother, whip the milk until it's smooth and creamy with a nice layer of foam. For those without a frother, try heating the milk and then whisking it vigorously in a pot or shaking it in a jar (just be sure the lid is tight!).
Add the Syrup: While your milk is heating, pour about 2 tablespoons of hazelnut syrup into the espresso. Then stir it well to let the syrup dissolve completely into the coffee.
Combine and Serve: Once your milk is ready, pour it slowly over the hazelnut espresso mixture. The foam should rise to the top, creating that classic latte texture. If you're feeling fancy, you can top it off with a bit of whipped cream for extra richness.
Video
Notes
Extra Tip: I also enjoy sprinkling a bit of cocoa powder or crushed hazelnuts on top for added texture and flavor! This tiny addition takes your drink to a whole new level. Enjoy!