Hazelnut Milk
A plant-based drink made from ground hazelnuts and water, with a mild hazelnut aroma. Adds flavor to desserts and drinks; not suitable for those with tree nut allergies.
What Is Hazelnut Milk?
Hazelnut milk is a dairy-free, plant-based drink made by processing and straining ground hazelnuts with water. Thanks to the hazelnut's distinctive taste, it has a pronounced, mildly sweet aroma.
It has a thin-to-medium consistency and a hazelnut smell; this pronounced taste makes it a favourite choice especially in hot drinks and desserts. It has no relation to cow's milk — it is a “drink.”
Nutritional Values of Hazelnut Milk
Plain hazelnut milk provides roughly 30 kcal of energy per 100 ml, making it low-calorie, low in protein, and containing some fat from the hazelnut; many products are fortified with calcium and vitamins. Values vary by brand and are approximate.
How Should Hazelnut Milk Be Assessed?
As a low-protein plant-based drink, hazelnut milk can be part of a balanced diet; however, those allergic to hazelnuts and tree nuts should not consume it. Unsweetened products may be preferred.
This information is general; hazelnut milk is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Hazelnut Milk?
Good hazelnut milk has a sufficient hazelnut content, low added sugar, and is preferably fortified. The hazelnut percentage and added sugar on the label are checked.
- The hazelnut content should be sufficient
- Added sugar should be low
- A fortified product may be preferred
How to Store Hazelnut Milk?
An unopened carton of hazelnut milk keeps for a long time on a cool-dry shelf; once opened it should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within a few days. Shaking before use disperses the solids that have settled to the bottom.
Using Hazelnut Milk in the Kitchen
Hazelnut milk is used in coffee, hot chocolate, smoothies, and desserts; also in cereal and baked goods. Its pronounced hazelnut aroma pairs especially well with cocoa and coffee.
Can Hazelnut Milk Be Made at Home?
Soaked hazelnuts can be blended with plenty of water and strained to prepare it at home; a little salt, cinnamon, or dates can be added to taste. The homemade product spoils more quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is hazelnut milk not suitable for?
Those allergic to hazelnuts and other tree nuts should not consume hazelnut milk; such people may turn to alternatives like soy, oat, or rice milk.
Does hazelnut milk substitute for cow's milk?
It substitutes as a drink, but its protein is low; so it does not match cow's milk's protein one-to-one in the diet and should be used as part of a balanced diet.
Is hazelnut milk sweet?
The plain product is mildly sweet with a hazelnut aroma; many brands also have sweetened varieties, so the label should be checked.