The hazelnut coffee at Starbucks is known as Hazelnut Macchiato. This delicious coffee drink features the nutty flavor of hazelnut syrup paired with espresso and steamed milk. Hazelnut Macchiato is a popular menu item at Starbucks and a great option for those who enjoy the sweet, aromatic taste of hazelnuts.
Background on Starbucks’ Hazelnut Macchiato
Starbucks first introduced the Hazelnut Macchiato back in 2014 as a permanent addition to their espresso drink menu. It quickly became a customer favorite due to its rich hazelnut flavor and creamy macchiato style. Here are some key facts about the Hazelnut Macchiato:
- It features freshly steamed milk marked with espresso and topped with hazelnut syrup.
- The hazelnut syrup provides a sweet, nutty taste that complements the espresso.
- Customers can order it hot or iced.
- Sizes available include tall, grande, venti and trenta.
- It contains approximately 150 calories in a grande size.
- Dairy-free milk alternatives are available upon request.
The Hazelnut Macchiato strikes the perfect balance between the rich flavor of espresso and the indulgent taste of hazelnut. It’s no wonder it has become a beloved coffee drink for Starbucks fans.
Ingredients in the Hazelnut Macchiato
The key ingredients that go into making a Hazelnut Macchiato are:
- Espresso – Freshly brewed Starbucks espresso provides the base and adds a bold, robust coffee flavor.
- Steamed milk – The espresso is marked with steamed, frothy milk that adds a creamy texture.
- Hazelnut syrup – The defining ingredient, this provides the unmistakable flavor of roasted hazelnuts.
- Ice (for iced version) – Cubed ice cools down the hot espresso and milk.
The espresso is pulled using Starbucks signature Espresso Roast coffee beans. These beans are expertly roasted to produce a rich, caramelly espresso. For the steamed milk, Starbucks uses 2% reduced-fat milk to achieve optimal frothiness and flavor. And the hazelnut syrup is a proprietary Starbucks product made from real hazelnuts.
Hazelnut Syrup
The hazelnut syrup is what really makes the Hazelnut Macchiato stand out. Starbucks describes it as a “rich, nutty flavor” made from hazelnuts roasted to perfection. The exact recipe is a closely guarded company secret. But the smooth, velvety syrup provides the sweet nuttiness that hazelnut coffee fans crave. A dash of this syrup transforms an ordinary espresso milk drink into the Hazelnut Macchiato.
Customizing Your Hazelnut Macchiato
One of the great things about Starbucks is their level of customization for drink orders. Customers can tweak their Hazelnut Macchiatos to create their ideal version. Here are some popular ways to customize:
- Extra shot of espresso for an added caffeine kick.
- Alternative milks like almond, coconut or soy.
- Extra pumps of hazelnut syrup for more nutty sweetness.
- Whipped cream topping for an indulgent treat.
- Cinnamon or chocolate shaker sprinkle for extra flavor.
- Substitute mocha sauce for the hazelnut syrup.
Starbucks baristas are used to accommodating special requests, so feel free to ask if you want your Hazelnut Macchiato prepared a certain way. Some people enjoy the standard recipe, while others prefer to tailor it to their personal preferences.
Nutrition Information
For those wondering about the nutrition breakdown, here are the key facts based on a Grande (16 oz) hot Hazelnut Macchiato made with 2% milk:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 23g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 7g
The hazelnut syrup does add quite a bit of sugar, which increases the calorie count. Opting for fat-free milk or fewer pumps of syrup can reduce the figures slightly. Overall, while not the healthiest option, it contains nutrients from the milk, espresso and hazelnuts. The caffeine provides an energizing lift as well.
Hazelnut Macchiato vs. Caramel Macchiato
Since the Hazelnut and Caramel Macchiatos are both popular Starbucks menu items, some people wonder how they compare:
| Feature | Hazelnut Macchiato | Caramel Macchiato |
|---|---|---|
| Base Ingredients | Espresso, steamed milk, hazelnut syrup | Espresso, steamed milk, caramel sauce |
| Distinguishing flavor | Hazelnut | Caramel |
| Flavor profile | Nutty, sweet | Sweet, buttery |
| Layering method | Milk marked with espresso | Espresso poured over milk |
| Calories (Grande) | 150 | 140 |
While the two drinks are prepared differently, they both offer delicious coffeehouse flavors. Choose Hazelnut for a more nutty profile or Caramel for sticky-sweet butterscotch notes. Either will satisfy a macchiato craving.
Starbucks Drink Pairings
The Hazelnut Macchiato makes a tasty standalone coffee drink. But Starbucks fans enjoy pairing it with other menu items too:
Food Pairings
- Blueberry oatmeal – The fruit and nuts complement the hazelnut flavors.
- Chocolate croissant – An indulgent match for the sweet nutty coffee.
- Bacon, Gouda & Egg Sandwich – Savory breakfast food with the Hazelnut Macchiato.
- Chicken & Quinoa Protein Bowl – A lighter nutritious meal alongside the coffee treat.
Drink Pairings
- Cold Brew + Hazelnut Syrup – Double down on the hazelnut flavor.
- Iced Passion Tango Tea – Fruity tea balances the rich coffee.
- Green Iced Tea – Crisp, grassy tea provides a palate cleanser.
- Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew – Sweet cream and hazelnut is a tasty duo.
Part of the fun of Starbucks is mixing and matching from their extensive menu. The Hazelnut Macchiato can complement both sweet and savory items for a well-rounded experience.
Popularity of Starbucks’ Hazelnut Macchiato
Ever since its introduction in 2014, the Hazelnut Macchiato has been one of Starbucks’ most popular specialty coffee drinks. Here are some factors that contribute to its widespread appeal:
- Approachable flavor profile enjoyed by many.
- Balance of nutty, chocolatey, creamy tastes.
- Textural contrast from espresso, steamed milk and syrup.
- Customizable to customer preferences.
- Menu item consistency across locations.
- Brand recognition and availability of Starbucks.
- Convenient drive-thru locations for on-the-go orders.
- Rewarding taste experience and ritual for coffee lovers.
Both casual coffee drinkers and Starbucks regulars have embraced the Hazelnut Macchiato. Its popularity has cemented its place in Starbucks menus for years to come.
How to Order a Hazelnut Macchiato at Starbucks
Ordering a Hazelnut Macchiato at Starbucks is very straightforward:
- Decide on hot or iced.
- Choose size – tall, grande, venti or trenta.
- Select your milk – regular, nonfat, soy, almond, etc.
- Indicate number of pumps of hazelnut syrup if wanting more or less than standard.
- Request any other customizations like an extra shot.
- Give your name for order.
- Pay for order.
- Wait for your name to be called when drink is ready.
- Enjoy your Hazelnut Macchiato!
Starbucks makes it easy to get your coffee fix just the way you like it. Their menu boards have all the key information and baristas are used to requests for customization. Relax and savor the flavor of fresh espresso and hazelnut syrup.
Price of a Starbucks Hazelnut Macchiato
Like all Starbucks menu items, the Hazelnut Macchiato varies in price depending on location and size ordered. However, here is a general breakdown for the U.S.:
| Size | Hot | Iced |
|---|---|---|
| Tall (12 oz) | $3.95 – $4.75 | $4.45 – $5.25 |
| Grande (16 oz) | $4.45 – $5.25 | $4.95 – $5.75 |
| Venti (20 oz) | $4.95 – $5.65 | $5.45 – $6.15 |
As you’d expect, the larger the size, the higher the price. Customizations like extra syrup or adding whipped cream will also raise the total. But for a coffeehouse-quality espresso drink, a Hazelnut Macchiato offers value.
Tips for Enjoying Your Hazelnut Macchiato
Here are some tips to get the most out of your Starbucks Hazelnut Macchiato experience:
- Stir before drinking to evenly distribute espresso and integrate layers.
- Enjoy immediately while hot to appreciate the aromatics.
- Sip slowly to detect nutty, chocolatey notes in each layer.
- Pair with a pastry like a muffin or brownie for a tasty treat.
- Customize your drink however you prefer – it’s your macchiato!
- Reorder the same way each time once you’ve found your ideal combination.
- Alert barista to any nut allergy concerns when ordering.
- Use Starbucks app to order ahead and avoid waiting in line.
Savoring a leisurely Hazelnut Macchiato is one of life’s simple pleasures for Starbucks fans. Allow enough time to appreciate all the subtle flavors in every sip.
Hazelnut Macchiato Copycat Recipes
Want to recreate that Starbucks Hazelnut Macchiato experience at home? Here are a couple tasty copycat recipes to try:
Easy Homemade Hazelnut Macchiato
- Brew 2 shots espresso or very strong coffee
- Steam or foam 2/3 cup milk of choice until hot and frothy
- Add 1-2 pumps hazelnut syrup to a mug
- Pour steamed milk over syrup
- Slowly pour espresso over milk
- Top with whipped cream and cocoa powder if desired
- Enjoy your homemade Hazelnut Macchiato!
Iced Hazelnut Macchiato
- Make chilled espresso either from machine or strong chilled coffee
- Fill cup halfway with ice
- Add 1-2 pumps hazelnut syrup over ice
- Pour cold frothed milk over syrup
- Finish with chilled espresso poured gently over milk
- Garnish with hazelnuts if desired
- Sip and enjoy the chilled homemade Hazelnut Macchiato!
These easy at-home versions provide the recognizable nutty, chocolately macchiato flavor. Experiment with the ingredients to match your Starbucks order.
Conclusion
With its enticing hazelnut flavor, frothy steamed milk, smooth espresso and customizable options, the Starbucks Hazelnut Macchiato is a beloved coffee drink for good reason. Stop by a Starbucks and see for yourself why customers come back for this nutty, sweet, creamy macchiato time and time again. Savor the aromas and flavors that make this beverage a consistent favorite. Allow yourself a moment to relax and enjoy your Hazelnut Macchiato – you deserve it!