As a bartender, I have seen and served countless cocktails. But there is one ingredient that never fails to impress me – hazelnut.
The nutty, rich flavor of hazelnut can add depth and complexity to any drink, making it a favorite among many cocktail enthusiasts.
Hazelnut is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be infused into spirits, added as a syrup or liqueur, or even used in garnishes.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating hazelnut cocktails, and the results are always delicious.
Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or a more modern twist, hazelnut can elevate any drink to the next level.
From creamy, dessert-like cocktails to refreshing, citrusy drinks, hazelnut can be used to create a wide range of flavors and textures.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the best hazelnut cocktail recipes that I have come across in my years as a bartender.
These recipes are sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail connoisseurs and will leave you wanting more. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the wonderful world of hazelnut cocktails.
1. Hazelnut Bourbon Sour With an Isla Twist
The Hazelnut Bourbon Sour With an Isla Twist is a unique and complex cocktail that is perfect for those who want to step up their hazelnut game. This cocktail is a creative spin on the classic Bourbon Sour, featuring Frangelico, Peychaud's bitters, and Bourbon, all wrapped in a smoky Isla Scotch mist.
The hazelnut flavor adds a sweet kick to the cocktail, while the bitters provide a hint of spiciness. The smoky Isla Scotch mist ties everything together, making it a perfect cocktail for those who enjoy a complex and layered taste. This cocktail is definitely not your typical dessert drink, and it's perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting.
2. Hazelnut Sour
If you're looking for a unique and delicious hazelnut cocktail, look no further than the Hazelnut Sour. This cocktail combines hazelnut liqueur with lime for a surprisingly delicious combination.
The tartness of the lime is balanced out by the sweetness of the hazelnut liqueur, and a cinnamon-sugar rim adds a warm and spicy touch to every sip. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting, and it's sure to impress your guests. So why not give the Hazelnut Sour a try at your next cocktail party?
3. Hazelnut Hot Toddy
The Hazelnut Hot Toddy is a comforting and relaxing cocktail that combines Frangelico, bourbon, cinnamon, cloves, and water, served warm and garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. The hazelnut and bourbon flavors blend perfectly together, creating a warm and tingly sensation.
The cinnamon, cloves, and bourbon create a beautiful aroma that fills your house and makes it smell like Christmas. Overall, the Hazelnut Hot Toddy is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves hazelnut or bourbon.
4. Creamy Hazelnut Cold Brew Martini
The Creamy Hazelnut Cold Brew Martini is a perfect pick-me-up for any day of the week. Made with cold brew coffee, dairy-free hazelnut creamer, coffee liqueur, and vodka, this rich velvety espresso martini is a dreamy concoction that is smooth, creamy, not overly sweet, and balanced enough where you'll get a fueled buzz.
The cocktail is less acidic than the average hot brewed coffee, making it the perfect mixer. The addition of Califia's Dairy-Free Hazelnut Creamer gives the cocktail a more velvety, creamy texture and a subtle taste of hazelnuts. The chopped hazelnuts add some crunch action to the cocktail. This dairy-free cocktail is perfect for a Sunday Funday or an after-dinner sip. Cheers to this delicious and unique cocktail!
5. Toblerone Cocktail
The Toblerone Cocktail is a decadent and creamy drink that is perfect for those who love the combination of chocolate and hazelnut. Made with Kahlua, Baileys, Frangelico, and cream, this cocktail is sweetened with a drizzle of honey to create a rich and indulgent flavor profile.
The cocktail is garnished with grated chocolate and a piece of Toblerone chocolate to add an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Sipping on this cocktail is like indulging in a luxurious dessert, making it a perfect after-dinner treat. If you're a fan of sweet and creamy cocktails, the Toblerone Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
6. Hazelnut Frangelico Sour
The Hazelnut Frangelico Sour is a unique and flavorful cocktail that combines the nutty taste of Frangelico with the tartness of lime juice. The egg whites give the drink a light and airy texture, making it a perfect after-dinner drink or happy hour cocktail. The hazelnut liqueur is the star of the show, with its robust flavor and distinct bottle shape.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be garnished with a wedge or wheel of lime for an added touch of freshness. If you're a fan of desserts like key lime pie or lemon bars, or enjoy an amaretto sour cocktail, this Hazelnut Frangelico Sour is a must-try. So, gather your friends and enjoy this delicious cocktail with good company and great conversation.
7. Nutty Irishman
The Nutty Irishman is a delightful Hazelnut Cocktail that is perfect for those chilly winter nights. This grown-up coffee drink is made with Irish Cream and Hazelnut liqueurs, and topped with sweet whipped cream. The smooth and comforting taste of this cocktail is sure to warm your mind and body.
The Nutty Irishman is easy to make and doesn't require a lot of guidance. It's a great way to end a long, chilly day. If you're a fan of coffee mixed with hits of alcohol, then this cocktail is definitely worth a try. So, why not head over to the bar and give it a shot?
8. Nutella Martini
The Nutella Martini is a must-try cocktail for any hazelnut lover. Made with the deliciously sweet and irresistible spread of chocolate and hazelnut, this cocktail is perfect to celebrate World Nutella Day or any special occasion. The cocktail is blended to perfection, resulting in a smooth and creamy texture that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
The addition of a garnish on the rim, such as crushed graham crackers or finely chopped hazelnuts, adds a fun and delicious touch to the drink. For those on a keto diet, a sugar-free version of the cocktail can be made by using sugar-free cocoa hazelnut spread and heavy cream. Overall, the Nutella Martini is a unique and indulgent cocktail that is sure to impress any guest.
9. Chocolate Cake Shot
The Chocolate Cake Shot is a delicious and unique cocktail that tricks your taste buds into thinking you're drinking a slice of chocolate cake. Made with vanilla vodka, hazelnut liqueur, and a touch of lemon, this sweet and refreshing shot is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
The combination of flavors creates a velvety, smooth sensation that is sure to satisfy your cravings. If you're a fan of Nutella, this is the shot for you! It's easy to make and a great addition to any birthday celebration. Overall, the Chocolate Cake Shot is a must-try for anyone looking for a unique and delicious hazelnut cocktail.
10. German Chocolate Cake Martini
The German Chocolate Cake Martini is a dessert cocktail recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth and your craving for hazelnut. This indulgent drink combines the flavors of chocolate, coconut, and hazelnut to create a delicious and fun cocktail that tastes like a slice of your favorite chocolate cake.
The addition of Frangelico and coconut vodka takes this chocolate martini recipe to the next level. The cocktail is easy to make and looks beautiful, making it the perfect choice for a happy hour wind down. If you're looking for a sweet and indulgent cocktail that will leave you wanting more, the German Chocolate Cake Martini is a must-try.
11. Honey & Hearth Cocktail
If you're a fan of bourbon and yellow chartreuse, then the Honey & Hearth cocktail is a must-try. This cocktail is bright, herbaceous, and boozy with notes of smoke and spice. It's the perfect drink for those who love gin as well.
The recipe has been adapted with permission from The Daisy in New York City, and it's definitely one of the best Hazelnut Cocktail recipes out there. The cocktail is easy to make, and the ingredients are readily available. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, then the Honey & Hearth is the perfect choice.
12. Hazelnut Bourbon Hot Chocolate
The Hazelnut Bourbon Hot Chocolate is a decadent and festive cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season. This cocktail combines warm spices, hazelnut liqueur, and bourbon to create a rich and indulgent drink that is sure to warm you up on a cold winter night.
The addition of whipped cream and marshmallow fluff takes this cocktail to the next level of decadence. For those with nut allergies, the hazelnut liqueur can be substituted with ginger liqueur and allspice dram. Overall, the Hazelnut Bourbon Hot Chocolate is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking to add a little extra holiday cheer to their festivities.
13. Hazelnut Chocolate Champagne Cocktail
The Hazelnut Chocolate Champagne Cocktail is a unique and flavorful drink that is perfect for celebrations or special occasions. Made with dry sparkling wine, hazelnut liqueur, and coffee beans, this cocktail has a savory chocolate-coffee flavor that is sure to impress. The addition of Frangelico, a sweet and strongly flavored hazelnut liqueur, adds a touch of sweetness to the drink.
The coffee beans release their flavor into the drink, adding a subtle coffee aroma and taste. This cocktail is easy to make and can be served to a group of people. Overall, the Hazelnut Chocolate Champagne Cocktail is a delicious and sophisticated drink that is perfect for those who enjoy a unique and flavorful cocktail.
14. Reindeer Tracks Martini
The Reindeer Tracks Martini is a rich and creamy cocktail that combines chocolate vodka, Frangelico, and creme de cacao with a hint of hazelnut. The taste is complex and addictive, reminiscent of Nutella, only creamier. It's perfect for those who have a sweet tooth and want a drink that's not too overwhelming or cloying.
The cocktail looks amazing with the cookie crumble garnish and is best served with salty or savory appetizers or nibbles. Overall, the Reindeer Tracks Martini is a delicious and indulgent cocktail that's perfect for any occasion.
15. Frangelico Espresso Martini
The Frangelico Espresso Martini is a luxurious coffee cocktail that is sure to impress your friends. This modern take on a classic espresso martini recipe features hazelnut liqueur and Godiva chocolate liqueur, making it a sweet and indulgent treat.
The use of warm espresso and pasteurized egg white produces a frothy white top that adds to the overall elegance of the cocktail. If you're a fan of sweet and decadent drinks, the Frangelico Espresso Martini is a must-try.