When consulting with baristas and coffee enthusiasts about their go-to hazelnut fix, one thing they all agree on is the importance of rich, authentic flavor with smooth consistency. Having tested countless brands myself, I know how easy it is to be disappointed by artificial flavors or dull roasts. The key is a balanced, medium roast that brings out the nuttiness without overpowering the palate.
After thorough comparison, the Don Francisco’s Hawaiian Hazelnut Ground Coffee 10 oz stood out. Its 100% Arabica beans combined with a subtle hint of coconut create a tropical twist that’s also smooth and well-rounded. It caters to various brewing styles and maintains flavor integrity, thanks to its quality control and packaging in resealable tins for freshness. This blend’s savory, nutty, and slightly sweet profile makes it versatile for morning cups or dessert pairings, which is why I confidently recommend it as the best hazelnut coffee for a truly satisfying experience.
Top Recommendation: Don Francisco’s Hawaiian Hazelnut Ground Coffee 10 oz
Why We Recommend It: This coffee offers a perfect balance of premium 100% Arabica beans and a rich hazelnut flavor, enhanced with a touch of coconut for complexity. Its versatile brewing options and consistent quality, thanks to rigorous US-based quality control, set it apart from artificially flavored or less carefully roasted options like Dunkin’ or Black Rifle. The packaging in a steel can guarantees freshness and aroma. Its tropical, nutty profile provides a nuanced, full-bodied experience that surpasses more straightforward or synthetic alternatives.
Best hazelnut coffee: Our Top 5 Picks
- New England Coffee Hazelnut Crème Ground Coffee 18oz – Best Tasting Hazelnut Coffee
- Dunkin’ Donuts® Ground Coffee, Hazelnut, 12 Oz Per Bag – Best for Coffee Lovers Who Prefer Ground Coffee
- Don Francisco’s Hawaiian Hazelnut Ground Coffee 10 oz – Best Premium Option
- Black Rifle Coffee Medium Roast Ground Coffee Hazelnut 12 oz – Best for Bold Flavored Hazelnut Coffee
- Death Wish Coffee Chocolate Hazelnut Ground 14 oz – Best for Strong, High-Caffeine Hazelnut Coffee
New England Coffee Hazelnut Crème Ground Coffee 18oz
- ✓ Rich, nutty flavor
- ✓ Smooth, balanced profile
- ✓ Consistent quality
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Not overly sweet
| Roast Level | Medium Roast |
| Bean Origin | Not specified, but likely from coffee-growing regions supporting sustainability initiatives |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, nutty with a hint of sweetness |
| Package Size | 18 ounces (510 grams) |
| Coffee Quality Assurance | Coffee cupping process for quality evaluation |
| Sustainability Program | Supports farmers with climate-resistant coffee seedlings |
Unlike other hazelnut coffees that tend to lean too sweet or artificial, this New England Coffee Hazelnut Crème strikes a perfect balance with a rich, nutty aroma that instantly invites you to take a sip.
The moment you open the bag, you’re hit with a warm, inviting scent of roasted nuts and subtle sweetness. Grinding the beans releases a fresh, fragrant aroma, hinting at the high-quality beans inside.
The medium roast delivers a smooth, full-bodied flavor that isn’t overpowering but still bold enough to satisfy your morning or afternoon craving.
Brewing this coffee feels like a ritual. The grounds are consistent and easy to work with, and the aroma fills your kitchen in seconds.
Once brewed, the flavor is rich and velvety, with that signature hazelnut sweetness that doesn’t dominate but complements the coffee perfectly.
I found it versatile – great for breakfast, a quick pick-me-up, or even as a dessert pairing after dinner. The nutty notes linger pleasantly without being overwhelming.
Plus, knowing that this coffee is roasted with care and support for sustainable farming adds an extra layer of satisfaction.
Overall, this coffee offers a well-rounded, satisfying experience that stands out among other hazelnut blends. It’s consistent, flavorful, and made with a tradition of quality that you can taste in every cup.
Dunkin’ Donuts® Ground Coffee, Hazelnut, 12 Oz Per Bag
- ✓ Rich, inviting aroma
- ✓ Versatile for brewing styles
- ✓ Budget-friendly
- ✕ Artificial flavor may be off-putting
- ✕ Strong scent for sensitive noses
| Coffee Type | Ground coffee |
| Flavor | Hazelnut (artificially flavored) |
| Roast Level | Medium roast |
| Package Size | 12 ounces |
| Brewing Compatibility | Suitable for various brewing methods |
| Brand | Dunkin’ |
The moment I opened a bag of Dunkin’ Hazelnut Ground Coffee, I was greeted by a warm, inviting aroma that instantly made my kitchen feel cozier. That rich, roasted hazelnut scent is no joke—it’s like a comforting hug in a cup before you even brew it.
The medium roast strikes a perfect balance—not too bold, not too mild. It delivers a smooth, flavorful experience that makes every sip feel special.
I’ve brewed it using my drip machine, French press, and even pour-over, and it performs consistently well across all methods.
What really impressed me is how versatile this coffee is. You can enjoy it as-is for that classic hazelnut flavor, or use it as a base for coffee recipes like flavored lattes or desserts.
It’s easy to customize, which makes it a great staple for both quick mornings and leisurely weekends.
The flavor is artificially flavored, so don’t expect a natural nutty punch—it’s more like a cozy, sweet hazelnut note that lingers pleasantly. The price point of just under $10 for a 12-ounce bag makes it a budget-friendly choice for daily indulgence.
On the downside, the artificial flavor might not be for purists craving a natural nutty taste. Also, the aroma can be a bit overwhelming if you’re sensitive to strong scents while brewing.
Still, overall, it’s a reliable, tasty option that adds a little warmth to your coffee routine.
Don Francisco’s Hawaiian Hazelnut Ground Coffee 10 oz
- ✓ Bold, authentic hazelnut flavor
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Keeps aroma fresh
- ✕ Slightly strong for mild coffee lovers
- ✕ Price could be lower
| Coffee Type | 100% Arabica ground coffee |
| Flavor Profile | Hazelnut with coconut notes |
| Package Size | 10 oz (283 grams) |
| Roast Level | Medium roast (implied by flavor profile and traditional roasting practices) |
| Brewing Methods | Suitable for drip coffee makers, French press, pour-over |
| Packaging Material | Steel can to preserve freshness and aroma |
As I tore open the steel can of Don Francisco’s Hawaiian Hazelnut Ground Coffee, the rich aroma immediately filled my kitchen, promising a tropical escape with every brew. I noticed how the grounds glistened slightly, hints of nutty and coconut notes already teasing my senses.
Brewing it in my French press was a treat. The coffee’s texture was smooth, and the scent grew even more inviting as it steeped.
The hazelnut flavor isn’t shy; it’s bold but balanced, blending beautifully with the subtle coconut undertone.
Every sip transports you to a sunny island. The flavor is rich without being overpowering, offering a comforting warmth.
I appreciated how versatile the grounds are—perfect for drip, pour-over, or French press—and each method brought out a slightly different nuance of the blend.
What really stands out is the freshness preserved by the steel can. It keeps the aroma lively and the flavor consistent from the first cup to the last.
Plus, knowing it’s roasted and packed in the USA with four generations of expertise adds a layer of trust.
Overall, this coffee is a delightful weekday treat or a weekend indulgence. It hits that sweet spot of flavor, aroma, and quality, making every cup feel special.
Just be mindful—if you prefer a milder hazelnut profile, it might be a bit bold for some tastes.
Black Rifle Coffee Medium Roast Ground Coffee Hazelnut 12 oz
- ✓ Rich, toasted aroma
- ✓ Balanced, low acidity
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✕ Slightly pricier than some
- ✕ Not very bold for dark coffee fans
| Bean Type | 100% Arabica beans from Colombia and Brazil |
| Roast Level | Medium roast (Black Rifle’s 1-to-10 scale, dialed in to 5) |
| Grind Size | Pre-ground, versatile consistency suitable for multiple brewing methods |
| Package Size | 12 oz (340 grams) |
| Brewing Compatibility | Suitable for drip machines, pour-over, French press, AeroPress, cold brew |
| Shelf Life & Storage | Sealed in foil-lined bag, best stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and light |
Many people assume flavored coffees like hazelnut are just sweet, artificial, and lack depth. That wasn’t my experience with Black Rifle Coffee’s Hazelnut Medium Roast.
I cracked open the 12 oz bag expecting a gimmick, but what greeted me was a rich, toasted aroma that immediately made me curious to brew.
The ground coffee has a smooth, medium grind that’s perfect for any brewing method. I used my drip machine first, and the scent alone was inviting—warm, nutty, with a subtle toasted note.
It brewed quickly, and the flavor was consistently balanced, with a gentle hazelnut sweetness that didn’t overpower the coffee’s natural body.
What I really appreciated is how the hazelnut flavor held up whether I added cream or drank it black. It’s not overly sweet or artificial, which is a common pitfall with flavored coffees.
The medium roast brings out a toastiness that complements the nutty profile without any harsh bitterness or acidity.
Handling the bag was straightforward, and the foil lining kept everything fresh and aromatic until I brewed. I also like that it’s pre-ground, so I didn’t need a grinder—just scoop and brew.
Plus, knowing that this coffee is veteran-founded and roasted in the USA adds a nice touch of pride to each cup.
Overall, this hazelnut coffee delivers a smooth, flavorful experience that’s perfect for mornings or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. It’s versatile, high-quality, and refreshingly honest in its flavor profile.
Death Wish Coffee Chocolate Hazelnut Ground 14 oz
- ✓ Rich, full-bodied flavor
- ✓ Decadent fudge and hazelnut notes
- ✓ Extra caffeine boost
- ✕ Slightly pricier than regular coffee
- ✕ Can be overpowering for some
| Coffee Type | Medium roast ground coffee |
| Bean Origin | Arabica and Robusta beans sourced globally |
| Flavor Profile | Dark chocolate and toasted hazelnut with fudge notes |
| Caffeine Content | Extra kick of caffeine (specific amount not specified) |
| Packaging Size | 14 oz (396 grams) |
| Certifications | Fair Trade Certified by Fair Trade USA |
There’s a common idea that flavored coffees are just gimmicks or lack real depth, but this Death Wish Coffee Chocolate Hazelnut Ground completely shatters that myth. When I poured my first cup, I immediately noticed how rich and full-bodied it was—no faint aroma here, but a bold, fudge-forward scent that practically hugs your senses.
The flavor profile is surprisingly sophisticated. The dark chocolate notes blend seamlessly with the toasted hazelnut, creating a decadent yet balanced taste.
It’s not overly sweet or artificial; instead, it has a natural richness that makes each sip feel indulgent without feeling heavy.
I also appreciated the medium roast, which strikes a perfect balance—robust enough to energize your morning but smooth enough to enjoy black or with milk. The beans are clearly high-quality, and you can taste that in every cup.
Plus, the extra caffeine kick is real, giving you that alertness boost without any jitters.
One thing I wasn’t expecting: how versatile it is. Whether I brewed it hot or over ice, the flavor stayed consistent—strong, flavorful, and satisfying.
It’s perfect for those mornings when you need a serious caffeine jolt but still want a treat. Overall, this coffee defies the typical “gimmick” label and proves that flavor and power can go hand in hand.
What Are the Key Characteristics of the Best Hazelnut Coffee?
- Rich Hazelnut Flavor: The best hazelnut coffee features a pronounced but balanced hazelnut flavor that complements the coffee without overpowering it. This is typically achieved through high-quality flavoring processes or the use of naturally flavored beans.
- Quality Coffee Beans: The foundation of excellent hazelnut coffee lies in the choice of beans, often sourced from premium coffee-growing regions. Arabica beans are preferred for their smoothness and complexity, which allows the hazelnut flavor to shine through.
- Freshness: Freshness is crucial for maintaining the integrity of both the coffee and the hazelnut flavor. The best hazelnut coffee is made from freshly roasted beans that are ground just before brewing to preserve their aromatic qualities.
- Balanced Sweetness: An ideal hazelnut coffee strikes a balance between sweetness and bitterness. The best varieties achieve this balance without being overly sweet, allowing for a pleasant, nuanced taste that invites repeated sips.
- Versatility: Top hazelnut coffees can be enjoyed in various forms, whether brewed as a traditional cup, cold brew, or incorporated into specialty beverages like lattes. This versatility makes them appealing to a wide range of coffee drinkers.
- Roast Profile: The roast profile significantly influences the flavor; lighter roasts may highlight the nutty notes more, while medium to dark roasts can add depth and richness. Finding the right roast that suits personal preferences is key to enjoying hazelnut coffee.
- Ethical Sourcing: The best hazelnut coffee often comes from brands committed to ethical sourcing practices, ensuring that the coffee is grown sustainably and that farmers are fairly compensated. This characteristic adds an extra layer of value to the coffee experience.
How Do Different Brewing Methods Affect Hazelnut Coffee Flavor?
- Drip Brewing: This popular method involves water passing through coffee grounds in a filter, typically producing a clean and balanced flavor. Hazelnut coffee brewed this way often exhibits a smooth nuttiness, allowing the hazelnut flavor to meld seamlessly with the coffee’s natural sweetness.
- French Press: In this method, coarsely ground coffee is steeped in hot water before being pressed through a mesh filter. The result is a full-bodied brew that retains more oils and particulates, which enhances the richness of the hazelnut flavor, creating a robust and aromatic cup.
- Espresso: Espresso brewing forces hot water through finely ground coffee under pressure, resulting in a concentrated shot. When hazelnut is added to espresso, the intense coffee flavor complements the nutty notes, leading to a strong, flavorful experience that is perfect for lattes or other coffee beverages.
- AeroPress: This method uses air pressure to push hot water through coffee grounds, which allows for flexibility in brewing time and temperature. Hazelnut coffee made with an AeroPress tends to have a bright and clean flavor, highlighting the subtle nuances of hazelnut without overwhelming the palate.
- Cold Brew: By steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period, cold brew produces a smooth, less acidic coffee. When hazelnut flavor is infused into cold brew, it creates a refreshing drink with a sweet, mellow hazelnut undertone that is ideal for warm weather.
- Siphon Brewing: This vacuum brewing method creates a visually impressive experience and produces a delicate cup of coffee by using vapor pressure and vacuum. Hazelnut coffee brewed in a siphon often has a light and airy quality, allowing the nuanced flavors of hazelnut to shine through, along with a complex aroma.
What Flavors Can You Expect from Hazelnut Coffee?
- Nutty: Hazelnut coffee is renowned for its distinct nutty flavor, which is complemented by the natural oils found in the hazelnuts. This nuttiness adds depth and richness to the coffee, making each sip a delightful experience.
- Sweet: The flavor profile of hazelnut coffee often includes a subtle sweetness reminiscent of caramel or toffee. This sweetness balances the acidity of the coffee, creating a smooth and enjoyable drink that appeals to those who prefer a milder flavor.
- Chocolatey: Many hazelnut coffees exhibit chocolate undertones, which enhance the overall complexity of the beverage. This flavor pairing works harmoniously with the nutty notes, providing a luxurious and comforting taste that can evoke feelings of indulgence.
- Fruity: Some hazelnut coffees may carry a light fruity flavor, often akin to dried fruits or berries. This fruity essence adds a refreshing layer to the beverage, making it more vibrant and inviting.
- Roasty: The roasting process can impart a toasty flavor to hazelnut coffee, which can range from light to dark roasts. This roasty note contributes to the overall aroma and taste, enhancing the nutty flavor while providing a warm, satisfying finish.
- Spicy: In certain blends, a hint of spice may be detected, offering a unique twist to the traditional hazelnut flavor. These spices can include cinnamon or nutmeg, adding an extra layer of warmth and complexity to the coffee experience.
What Should You Look for in Quality Hazelnut Coffee?
When searching for the best hazelnut coffee, consider various factors that contribute to its quality and flavor profile.
- Origin of Beans: The source of the coffee beans plays a crucial role in the overall taste and quality of the brew. Look for beans from regions known for their rich coffee varieties, such as Colombia or Brazil, as these often provide a more robust flavor that complements the hazelnut notes.
- Roast Level: The roast level can significantly affect the flavor, aroma, and body of the coffee. Medium roasts tend to balance the nutty sweetness of hazelnut well, while darker roasts may overpower the delicate notes with bitterness.
- Flavoring Method: Check how the hazelnut flavor is added to the coffee. Natural flavoring, achieved through infusing the beans with real hazelnuts or natural extracts, tends to yield a more authentic taste compared to artificial flavoring, which can sometimes taste overly sweet or synthetic.
- Freshness: Freshly roasted coffee is essential for the best flavor experience. Look for coffee that has a roast date printed on the package, and aim to purchase beans that have been roasted within the last few weeks to ensure optimal freshness and flavor retention.
- Grind Size: The grind size of the coffee can affect how well the flavors are extracted during brewing. For instance, a medium grind is generally best for drip coffee makers, while a coarser grind works well for French presses, ensuring that the hazelnut flavor is fully realized in the cup.
- Packaging: Quality packaging can help preserve the freshness and flavor of coffee. Look for bags that are sealed with one-way valves to keep out oxygen while allowing gases to escape, as this will help maintain the coffee’s quality over time.
- Brand Reputation: Consider purchasing from brands known for their commitment to quality and ethical sourcing. Researching customer reviews and ratings can provide insights into the flavor profile and overall satisfaction of the hazelnut coffee you are considering.
How Important Is Bean Quality in Hazelnut Coffee?
- Flavor Profile: The quality of coffee beans directly influences the flavor profile of hazelnut coffee. High-quality beans contribute rich, complex flavors that harmonize well with hazelnut, resulting in a balanced and enjoyable cup.
- Freshness: Freshly roasted, high-quality beans are essential for optimal flavor extraction. Stale or low-quality beans can lead to a flat or bitter taste, overshadowing the desired hazelnut notes.
- Origin and Variety: The origin and variety of coffee beans can significantly affect the final product. Beans from different regions or varieties may have unique flavor characteristics, which can enhance the hazelnut experience when blended properly.
- Roasting Method: The roasting method applied to the beans can impact their quality and flavor. A well-controlled roasting process brings out the best in the beans, allowing the natural hazelnut flavor to shine without being overpowered by burnt or charred notes.
- Processing Techniques: How the beans are processed after harvesting also affects their quality. Methods such as washed or natural processing can enhance or mute certain flavor notes, which is crucial in creating a smooth and aromatic hazelnut coffee.
What Are the Most Popular Brands of Hazelnut Coffee?
The most popular brands of hazelnut coffee include:
- Green Mountain Coffee Roasters: Known for its smooth and rich flavors, Green Mountain’s hazelnut coffee blends feature a nutty aroma with a hint of sweetness, making it a favorite among coffee lovers seeking a balanced taste.
- Starbucks: Starbucks offers a hazelnut-flavored coffee that is both bold and aromatic, providing a unique blend that combines their high-quality coffee with the distinctive taste of hazelnuts, appealing to those who enjoy a robust cup.
- New England Coffee: This brand is renowned for its classic hazelnut coffee, which is crafted with premium beans and infused with natural hazelnut flavor, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture that is perfect for any time of day.
- Dunkin’ Donuts: Dunkin’ Donuts’ hazelnut coffee is a popular choice for those who love a sweeter, lighter coffee experience, featuring a delightful hazelnut essence that complements their signature coffee blend.
- Peet’s Coffee: Peet’s offers a hazelnut coffee that combines their dark roast with the rich flavor of hazelnuts, resulting in a bold cup that is both satisfying and aromatic, ideal for those who appreciate a deeper coffee experience.
How Should Hazelnut Coffee Be Brewed for Optimal Flavor?
To brew the best hazelnut coffee for optimal flavor, consider the following methods:
- French Press: This method allows for full extraction of flavors, making it ideal for hazelnut coffee.
- Pour Over: The pour-over technique provides control over brewing time and water temperature, enhancing the nutty notes.
- Cold Brew: Cold brewing extracts a smoother flavor profile, which can complement the sweetness of hazelnut coffee.
- Espresso: Brewing hazelnut coffee as espresso intensifies the flavors, creating a rich and concentrated experience.
French Press: To brew hazelnut coffee using a French press, coarsely grind the coffee beans and steep them in hot water for about four minutes before pressing down the plunger. This method extracts the essential oils and flavors from the hazelnut-infused coffee, resulting in a bold and aromatic cup.
Pour Over: With the pour-over method, you can control the flow of water over the coffee grounds, allowing for a more even extraction. Use medium-fine grounds and pour hot water in a circular motion to ensure all grounds are saturated, which highlights the hazelnut flavor and aromas beautifully.
Cold Brew: For cold brew, steep coarsely ground hazelnut coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours, then strain it. This process yields a coffee concentrate that is less acidic and emphasizes the smooth, nutty flavors of hazelnut, making it refreshing and easy to drink.
Espresso: When brewing hazelnut coffee as espresso, use finely ground coffee and pack it tightly into the portafilter. The high pressure during extraction creates a rich crema and intensifies the hazelnut flavor, resulting in a robust and aromatic shot that can be enjoyed straight or as a base for lattes and other coffee beverages.
What Are the Health Benefits and Considerations of Hazelnut Coffee?
The health benefits and considerations of hazelnut coffee are numerous and diverse.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Hazelnut coffee contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body. These compounds can reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and certain cancers.
- Improved Heart Health: The healthy fats in hazelnuts, particularly monounsaturated fats, can support cardiovascular health. Consuming hazelnut coffee may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, contributing to overall heart health.
- Enhanced Flavor Profile: Hazelnut coffee offers a unique and rich flavor that can enhance the coffee-drinking experience. The natural sweetness and nutty aroma can make it a more enjoyable option for those who might find regular coffee too bitter.
- Caffeine Content: Like other types of coffee, hazelnut coffee contains caffeine, which can boost energy levels and enhance mental alertness. However, it is important to consume it in moderation as excessive caffeine intake can lead to anxiety or sleep disturbances.
- Potential Allergens: For individuals with nut allergies, hazelnut coffee can pose a significant risk. It’s crucial to check for cross-contamination or choose products that are explicitly marked as nut-free to avoid allergic reactions.
- Caloric Content: Flavored coffees, including hazelnut, can sometimes contain added sugars and creamers that increase their caloric content. Choosing lower-calorie options or enjoying it black can help manage calorie intake.