Caramel hazelnut iced coffee with whipped cream and syrup drizzle

Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee: A Sweet, Chill Sip You’ll Crave All Summer

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Let’s set the scene. It’s a sticky summer afternoon, and hot coffee sounds like a punishment. But you still want that rich, bold flavor—the jolt, the aroma, the vibe. That’s where Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee steps in. It’s coffee’s cooler, sweeter cousin. Dessert in a glass, but with enough caffeine to keep you productive. Win-win.

Why You’ll Love Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee

This isn’t your average iced coffee. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

  • Rich meets sweet: Deep, bold coffee pairs perfectly with nutty hazelnut and velvety caramel.
  • All-day flexibility: Morning wake-up call, afternoon refresher, or post-dinner treat—it wears all hats.
  • Endlessly customizable: Make it your own—dairy-free, sugar-free, or fully indulgent with whipped cream and drizzle.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Want that café-level flavor at home? Let’s tighten up the technique.

  • Use good coffee. This is key. Go with a bold medium-dark roast or cold brew concentrate.
  • Cool it properly. Brew your coffee ahead and chill it, or pour it over coffee ice cubes (more on that next).
  • DIY the syrups. Simmer sugar with water and real caramel or hazelnuts—saves money and ups the flavor game.
  • Coffee ice cubes. Don’t let plain ice water down your drink. Freeze leftover brew in trays and thank me later.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

No need to stick to the script. Here’s how you can tweak it:

  • Milk swaps: Almond, oat, or coconut milk add unique flavors and make it vegan-friendly.
  • Sugar-free fixes: Use stevia or sugar-free syrups—Torani and Jordan’s Skinny Syrups are solid.
  • New flavors: Swap hazelnut for almond or vanilla. Still nutty, still fantastic.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This drink can fly solo or level up your snack time:

  • Breakfast buddies: Think buttery croissants, warm muffins, or savory avocado toast.
  • Afternoon upgrades: Pair with dark chocolate squares or nut-filled pastries.
  • Presentation punch: Use a chilled glass, add whipped cream, and swirl extra syrup on top—looks fancy, feels festive.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Heads up—this drink is all about the chill.

  • Fridge-friendly: Store leftover coffee mix (without ice) in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Skip the freezer: Ice cream, yes. Iced coffee, not so much—freezing ruins the texture.
  • Don’t reheat. It’s not meant to be hot. That’s another drink entirely.

Ingredients List (with Tips)

  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (chilled)
    Use a bold medium-dark roast—something like a French or Italian roast works great. Brew it strong so it doesn’t get lost under the sweetness and cream. Chill it fully before using (no one wants lukewarm iced coffee).
  • 2 tbsp caramel syrup
    Go with a quality brand like Torani or make your own by simmering sugar until golden, then adding cream and a pinch of salt. Adds that smooth, buttery richness.
  • 1 tbsp hazelnut syrup
    This brings in the nutty depth that balances out the caramel. You can swap it for almond or vanilla if you prefer a twist.
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream (or alternative)
    Whole milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream for a decadent texture. Almond, oat, or coconut milk work beautifully too—each adds a unique spin.
  • Ice cubes (or coffee cubes)
    Standard ice is fine, but coffee ice cubes are a game-changer. Freeze leftover coffee so your drink stays strong as it chills.
  • Whipped cream (optional)
    Adds that dessert-like flair. For a café-style finish, whip your own and sweeten it lightly with vanilla.
  • Extra syrup for garnish (optional)
    A drizzle on top looks sharp and adds a final punch of flavor. Caramel is classic, but a mix of both syrups adds layers.

Instructions (Frank Proto-Style)

1. Brew it strong.

Don’t phone this in. Use freshly ground beans—medium-dark or dark roast—and make it bold. You want flavor that cuts through the syrup and milk. A French press or moka pot gives great body. Brew it, cool it at room temp, then chill it in the fridge. Trust me, cold is key.

2. Prep your glass.

Start with ice. But here’s the chef move: coffee ice cubes. Just freeze some extra brew in an ice tray. Regular cubes will water down your masterpiece. This? This keeps it rich ‘til the last sip.

3. Syrup time.

Add your caramel and hazelnut syrups to the chilled coffee. Stir like you mean it. You’re not just combining—you’re marrying flavors. Taste it now. Too sweet? Cut back next time. Not enough? Add a dash more. Adjust, don’t guess.

4. Add the creaminess.

Pour in your milk or cream slowly. Let it swirl like a latte in slow motion. Then stir again to mix evenly—don’t leave layers of coffee and dairy sitting awkwardly. This is iced coffee, not a science experiment.

5. Make it pretty.

Optional, but hey—why not flex a little? Dollop some whipped cream on top. Then hit it with a drizzle of caramel or hazelnut syrup. Serve it in a tall chilled glass with a straw. Looks good, tastes better.

Notes

  • Homemade syrups = next-level flavor. Try making your own for better control and freshness.
  • Use strong coffee. Don’t let all that sweetness bury your brew.
  • Chill your glass before serving for that frosty, coffee-shop feel.

Benefits of Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee

BenefitWhy It Matters
Cools You DownPerfect for hot days when hot coffee just won’t cut it
Dessert Vibes, Less GuiltSweet and indulgent, but lighter than cake or ice cream
CustomizableEasily tweak sweetness, dairy, and flavors to your liking
EnergizingCoffee base gives you that reliable caffeine boost
Budget-FriendlyMake café-quality drinks at home without the price tag
Pairs Well with SnacksComplements both sweet and savory treats
Great for EntertainingFancy-looking, easy-to-make drink that impresses guests
Make-Ahead FriendlyPrep in advance for grab-and-go convenience

Recipe FAQs

Can you use instant coffee?

Yes, but use more than usual to keep the flavor bold. Think 2 tsp per 6 oz water.

How to make it stronger?

 Use cold brew concentrate or double the coffee-to-water ratio in your brew.

Can it be prepared in advance?

Absolutely. Mix the coffee and syrups ahead and store chilled. Add milk and ice just before serving.

Looking to expand your iced drink game? Here are some must-try options that pair perfectly with the vibe of Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee:

  • Coconut Vanilla Cold Brew: A tropical spin on classic cold brew, this one’s for fans of bold, smooth coffee-based drinks with creamy coconut and vanilla undertones.
  • Strawberry Matcha Latte: If you’re into refreshing summer beverages with a fruity twist and an earthy kick, this one’s for you.
  • Banana Matcha Smoothie: Creamy, energizing, and packed with antioxidants—this banana matcha smoothie is breakfast and caffeine in one.
  • Peanut Butter Smoothie: Rich, nutty, and satisfying, this peanut butter smoothie is a great option when you’re craving something thick and protein-packed.
  • Chia Seed Water: For a light and hydrating break from caffeine, this chia seed water is a clean, refreshing choice with bonus nutrients.
Print

Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee: A Sweet, Chill Sip You’ll Crave All Summer

Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee is your go-to summer sip—sweet, nutty, and bold, it’s the cool coffee upgrade you didn’t know you needed.

  • Author: Emilio
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x
  • Category: Boisson
  • Method: Sans Cuisson
  • Cuisine: Américaine

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup strong brewed coffee (chilled)
  • 2 tbsp caramel syrup
  • 1 tbsp hazelnut syrup
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream (or alternative)
  • Ice cubes (or coffee cubes)
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Extra syrup for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brew it strong using a medium-dark or dark roast, then chill completely.
  2. Fill a glass with ice cubes or coffee ice cubes.
  3. Stir in the caramel and hazelnut syrups into the chilled coffee.
  4. Pour in milk or cream slowly and mix evenly.
  5. Top with whipped cream and drizzle with extra syrup if desired. Serve chilled.

Notes

Use strong coffee for best flavor. Freeze extra brew for coffee ice cubes. Chill the glass beforehand for a café-style presentation.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 glass
  • Calories: 468
  • Sugar: 84g
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat:
  • Unsaturated Fat:
  • Trans Fat:
  • Carbohydrates: 72g
  • Fiber:
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: iced coffee, caramel, hazelnut, summer drink, café froid

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

NutrientAmount
Calories468
Total Fat15g
Sugars84g
Protein6g
Cholesterol45mg
Sodium110mg
Carbohydrates72g

Final Sip: Your Turn to Brew

This Caramel Hazelnut Iced Coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a vibe. Perfect for summer mornings, lazy afternoons, or when you just need something sweet with a kick. Try it your way, tweak it, own it. And hey, if you nail it, make a second glass—because one won’t be enough.

Now go make the iced coffee you deserve—and if you’re looking for more cool drink ideas, visit my Pinterest page for inspiration, recipes, and plenty of flavor twists.