The Unexpectedly Easy Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso: Your New Favorite Coffee
Forget complicated coffee shop concoctions! This hazelnut oatmilk shaken espresso is surprisingly simple to make at home, delivering a luxuriously creamy, subtly nutty, and intensely caffeinated experience. It's the perfect pick-me-up for those days when you crave something special without the hefty price tag or long wait times.
This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and espresso strength. We'll explore variations and answer common questions to help you craft the perfect cup, every time.
What Makes a Shaken Espresso "Shaken"?
The magic behind a shaken espresso lies in the technique. Instead of simply adding milk to your espresso, you vigorously shake the espresso with cold oat milk and your chosen sweetener. This process creates a beautifully textured, frothy drink that's incredibly smooth and less acidic than a traditionally poured espresso. The cold milk also helps to prevent the espresso from becoming bitter.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Strong Espresso: Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor. A double shot (approximately 60ml) is ideal. If you don't have an espresso machine, strong, finely-ground coffee brewed using a Moka pot or AeroPress will work well.
- Oat Milk: Oat milk's creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect match for hazelnut and espresso. Choose your favorite brand – unsweetened is generally preferred to allow for better flavor control.
- Hazelnut Syrup: This adds that delicious nutty flavor. You can buy pre-made hazelnut syrup, or easily make your own by simmering equal parts water and sugar with a generous amount of hazelnut extract.
- Ice: Plenty of ice is crucial for the shaking process and for keeping your drink refreshingly cold.
Step-by-Step Guide: The Easiest Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso Recipe
- Brew your espresso: Prepare your double shot of espresso. Let it cool slightly.
- Combine ingredients: Add your cooled espresso, oat milk (start with about 120ml, adjusting to your preference), hazelnut syrup (begin with 1-2 tablespoons, taste and adjust), and a generous amount of ice to a shaker.
- Shake vigorously: Close the lid tightly and shake the shaker for at least 20 seconds, or until the outside of the shaker feels cold. The longer you shake, the frothier your drink will become.
- Strain (optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into your serving glass. This will remove any ice shards.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a drizzle of extra hazelnut syrup, or a few coffee beans, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of milk?
Yes, you can experiment with other plant-based milks like almond milk or soy milk. However, oat milk provides the best creaminess and texture for this specific drink. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.
How much hazelnut syrup should I use?
This depends entirely on your personal preference. Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust to your liking. Taste the mixture before serving to ensure the sweetness is balanced with the espresso's bitterness.
What if I don't have a shaker?
A mason jar with a tight-fitting lid will work just as well!
Can I make this ahead of time?
It's best enjoyed immediately to preserve the texture and prevent the ice from diluting the drink. However, you could prepare the hazelnut syrup in advance.
How do I make my own hazelnut syrup?
Combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan. Add 1-2 tablespoons of hazelnut extract per cup of water. Simmer over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
Elevate Your Coffee Routine: Experiment and Enjoy!
This hazelnut oatmilk shaken espresso is a blank canvas for your creativity. Feel free to experiment with different syrups, spices, or even add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. The simplicity of this recipe allows for endless customization, ensuring you discover your perfect, go-to coffee drink. Enjoy!
