How to Make Hazelnut Latte (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Hazelnut Latte has become a beloved beverage in Malaysia’s vibrant café culture, blending the rich, nutty essence of hazelnuts with the boldness of freshly brewed kopi (coffee). While the drink has global appeal, Malaysian versions often incorporate local twists such as the use of santan (coconut milk) for a creamy, aromatic finish, and a sprinkle of pandan or gula Melaka for added depth. This Hazelnut Latte recipe is crafted for health-conscious Malaysians who appreciate both tradition and well-being, offering a balanced, lower-calorie cup without sacrificing authentic flavor. In Malaysia’s multicultural culinary landscape, beverages like Hazelnut Latte are enjoyed by people of all backgrounds, reflecting the nation’s open embrace of innovation while honoring local ingredients. Whether sipped at breakfast, during brunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this latte is more than just a beverage—it’s a celebration of Malaysia’s love for kopi, enhanced with wholesome, natural ingredients. The creamy nuttiness, subtle sweetness, and aromatic notes make it an irresistible choice for anyone seeking a comforting yet modern drink that fits into a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Freshly brewed coffee (kopi, medium roast)
- 1 cup Unsweetened coconut milk (santan)
- 2 tablespoons Hazelnut butter or paste (pure, no added sugar)
- 2 teaspoons Gula Melaka syrup (palm sugar syrup)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (optional, for aroma)
- 1 leaf Pandan leaf (knotted)
- 1 cup Crushed ice (for iced latte option)
- 1 tablespoon Roasted hazelnuts (chopped, for garnish)
- a pinch Cinnamon powder (optional, for extra flavor)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Brew 2 cups of medium roast kopi
Brew 2 cups of medium roast kopi. Set aside while still hot.
Step 2 · In a small saucepan
In a small saucepan, combine santan with the pandan leaf. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to infuse aroma, then remove pandan.
Step 3 · Stir in hazelnut butter and gula Melaka syrup into the warm santan
Stir in hazelnut butter and gula Melaka syrup into the warm santan. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 4 · Add vanilla extract (if using) for extra depth
Add vanilla extract (if using) for extra depth. Mix well.
Step 5 · Pour the brewed kopi into two tall glasses
Pour the brewed kopi into two tall glasses. Gently pour the hazelnut-santan mixture over the coffee.
Step 6 · For iced latte
For iced latte, add crushed ice before pouring the hazelnut-santan blend. Stir gently to combine.
Step 7 · Garnish with chopped roasted hazelnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon p...
Garnish with chopped roasted hazelnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon powder if desired. Serve immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
By substituting dairy with santan and sweetening with natural gula Melaka, this Hazelnut Latte reduces saturated fat and refined sugars while boosting beneficial nutrients. Hazelnuts deliver healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. This recipe supports heart health, is gentle on blood sugar, and fits well into calorie-controlled diets, making it a wholesome, guilt-free treat for the Malaysian health-conscious community.
A note on tradition
Café culture has flourished in Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, where creative lattes are enjoyed alongside traditional kuih-muih. The Hazelnut Latte, especially when enriched with local delights like santan and gula Melaka, bridges modern coffee trends with Malaysian flavors. Popular at brunch, in hipster cafés, or during festive gatherings, it reflects the nation’s spirit of culinary fusion and innovation.