Homemade Hazelnut Syrup: A Nutty Delight for Your Favorite Beverages

Ingredients:

To make hazelnut syrup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup raw hazelnuts
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Roasting the Hazelnuts:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the raw hazelnuts on a baking sheet and roast them for approximately 10-12 minutes or until they become fragrant and turn golden brown. Make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once roasted, let the hazelnuts cool down.

2. Removing the Skins:

After the hazelnuts have cooled, transfer them to a clean kitchen towel. Fold the towel over the hazelnuts and rub them gently. The friction will help remove the skins. Alternatively, you can also place the roasted hazelnuts in a bowl and cover them with another bowl. Shake vigorously for a few minutes to remove the skins. Discard the skins and set the hazelnuts aside.

3. Preparing the Hazelnut Infusion:

In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously until the sugar has dissolved completely. Once dissolved, add the roasted hazelnuts to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the syrup.

4. Straining the Syrup:

After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or a cheesecloth-lined colander into a clean container. This will remove any hazelnut pieces or impurities, resulting in a smooth syrup.

5. Enhancing the Flavor (Optional):

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the syrup. Stir well to incorporate the vanilla into the mixture. This step is optional but can add a delightful twist to your hazelnut syrup.

6. Storing and Enjoying the Syrup:

Transfer the homemade hazelnut syrup into a sterilized bottle or airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before sealing. The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Use it to enhance your coffee, latte, hot chocolate, or any other favorite beverage. Experiment with different quantities to find your desired level of sweetness.

Creating your own homemade hazelnut syrup allows you to control the quality and flavor of your beverages. With just a few simple steps, you can indulge in the rich and nutty taste of hazelnut in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner barista, and enjoy the irresistible allure of homemade hazelnut syrup. Cheers to delightful sips and countless moments of pure indulgence!