There’s a certain comfort that comes from a rich glass of chocolate milk, but when it’s homemade and dairy-free, it transforms into something even more special. As I sat down with a sweet tooth craving, the idea of crafting my own Chocolate Hazelnut Milk struck me like a bolt of inspiration. With the nutty aroma of toasted hazelnuts filling the kitchen, I can’t help but get excited about the incredible fusion of flavors that awaits.

This delightful concoction marries the creaminess of hazelnuts with the decadence of cacao, all sweetened naturally with dates. It’s not just a treat; it’s a nutritious boost that complements everything from morning smoothies to cozy afternoon snacks. Plus, it scoffs at the idea of boring, processed alternatives. Whether you’re a vegan looking for something new or simply someone tired of the same old routine, this recipe promises a sip of indulgence that’s as wholesome as it is delicious. Join me as we dive into this simple yet luxurious homemade creation!

Why is Chocolate Hazelnut Milk a Must-Try?

Indulgent, this creamy delight offers the satisfaction of dessert in a nutritious drink.
Quick to make, this recipe requires only a handful of affordable ingredients and minimal time.
Versatile, enjoy it plain, in smoothies, or over cereal for various delicious experiences.
Customizable, you can easily adjust sweetness and flavor according to your taste.
Dairy-free, it caters perfectly to vegan diets without compromising on flavor or texture.
This Chocolate Hazelnut Milk is not just a drink; it’s an experience you won’t want to miss out on!

Chocolate Hazelnut Milk Ingredients

For the Nut Base
• 1 cup whole raw hazelnuts – A creamy foundation for your chocolate hazelnut milk, but feel free to swap in almonds or cashews for a different flavor.

For Sweetening
• 2 dates (or more to taste) – These natural sweeteners add just the right hint of sweetness; agave nectar or maple syrup can be used instead if preferred.

For the Chocolate Flavor
• 2 Tbsp cacao powder (unsweetened cocoa powder) – Essential for delivering that rich chocolate taste; no substitutions are recommended unless for dietary needs.

Now that we’ve gathered all the goodies, you’re just a blend away from enjoying this delicious homemade chocolate hazelnut milk!

How to Make Chocolate Hazelnut Milk

Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an essential step that prepares the nuts for toasting, enhancing their flavor.
Toast Hazelnuts: Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast them for 12-15 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn—you’re aiming for a lovely golden brown color.
Remove Skins: Once toasted, let the hazelnuts cool slightly, then use a clean kitchen towel to rub off the skins. Don’t worry if some skins remain; it adds to the rustic charm!
Soak Nuts: Place the skinned hazelnuts in a bowl, cover them with clean, cold water, and let them soak for at least 2 hours or overnight for a creamier texture. This step is crucial, so don’t skip it!
Blend Ingredients: Drain the soaked hazelnuts and transfer them to a blender. Add 2 cups of filtered water, dates, and cacao powder. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Strain Nut Milk: Using a nut bag or fine cheesecloth, strain the blended mixture, squeezing out all the delicious liquid. You can discard the solids or save them for a delicious addition to smoothies or baked treats.
Refrigerate: Pour your freshly made chocolate hazelnut milk into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week—though it might not last that long!

Optional: Drizzle a little maple syrup on top before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chocolate Hazelnut Milk?

Sipping on this luscious drink opens up a world of delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience.

Granola: Crunchy granola provides a lovely textural contrast, making it a perfect addition for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Oatmeal Pancakes: Fluffy oatmeal pancakes soaked in chocolate hazelnut milk create a sweet, comforting morning treat that the whole family will adore!
Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding complements the nutty flavors of the milk and adds a nutritious superfood boost, perfect for a wholesome dessert.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries enhance the overall flavor profile, adding a refreshing sweetness to your chocolate hazelnut milk experience.
Banana Bread: A slice of warm banana bread pairs beautifully, creating a cozy, indulgent snack that balances perfectly with the rich drink.

For a more adventurous touch, try creating smoothies by blending chocolate hazelnut milk with spinach and bananas. The flavors marry delightfully, transforming it into a nourishing booster. Enjoy your culinary journey!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Hazelnut Milk

Fridge: Store your chocolate hazelnut milk in an airtight container for up to 7 days; always shake before using to recombine any settled particles.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays, then transfer to a zip-lock bag. This keeps chocolate hazelnut milk fresh for up to 3 months for those sunny day smoothies.

Thawing: When ready to use the frozen cubes, simply transfer them to the fridge overnight or blend them directly into smoothies for a quick chocolate fix.

Texture Check: Homemade chocolate hazelnut milk can sometimes separate; just give it a good shake or stir before enjoying to restore its creamy goodness!

Make Ahead Options

These creamy vegan Chocolate Hazelnut Milk preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can easily toast and skin the hazelnuts up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Soak the hazelnuts for at least 2 hours (or overnight) before blending, ensuring they achieve that ultra-creamy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your chocolate hazelnut milk, simply blend the soaked nuts with the remaining ingredients and strain. This way, you’ll have delectable nut milk ready to enjoy with minimal effort, proving that preparing ahead can be both simple and satisfying!

Chocolate Hazelnut Milk Variations

Feel free to explore these tasty twists and adaptations to make this recipe uniquely yours!

Nutty Switch: Substitute hazelnuts with almonds for a different nut flavor that still provides creaminess.
Vanilla Boost: Add a splash of vanilla extract for a delightful depth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Medjool Dates: Use medjool dates instead of regular dates for a richer texture and a sweeter taste.
Chocolate Coconut: Incorporate a tablespoon of coconut cream to add a silky richness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Spiced Delight: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor that beautifully complements the chocolate.
Protein-Packed: Blend in a scoop of your favorite protein powder for an energizing breakfast option or post-workout refreshment.
Ice Cream Indulgence: For a decadent treat, blend this nut milk with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a luscious milkshake.
Chili Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising spicy kick that’s perfect if you enjoy a little heat in your beverages.

Each of these variations brings its own twist to your chocolate hazelnut milk, ensuring you can enjoy it in multiple delicious ways!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Hazelnut Milk

Perfectly Toasted Nuts: Ensure your hazelnuts are evenly toasted for deeper flavor, but watch them closely to prevent burning, which could spoil the taste of your chocolate hazelnut milk.
Soak for Creaminess: Soaking the hazelnuts is essential for achieving that luxurious, creamy texture, so don’t skip this step—it makes a world of difference!
Blend Thoroughly: Blend the mixture well until completely smooth. If it’s grainy, keep blending until all the hazelnuts are finely ground for the best mouthfeel.
Strain Well: When straining, squeeze the nut bag or cheesecloth firmly to extract every drop of liquid. This ensures that your chocolate hazelnut milk is rich and full of flavor.
Customization Options: Feel free to experiment with the sweetness. Start with two dates, then adjust to your taste for the perfect balance in your chocolate hazelnut milk.

Chocolate Hazelnut Milk Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting hazelnuts?
Absolutely! When selecting hazelnuts, look for raw, whole hazelnuts that are free from dark spots and have a light brown color. Avoid any that feel soft or appear moldy, as this affects the flavor. Fresh, well-stored nuts will deliver the best taste and texture in your chocolate hazelnut milk.

How should I store leftover chocolate hazelnut milk?
Very simply! Store your chocolate hazelnut milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 7 days. Always give it a good shake or stir before using, as it may separate. I often find it useful to store it in a glass jar for better visibility and easy pouring!

Can I freeze chocolate hazelnut milk?
Absolutely! You can freeze your chocolate hazelnut milk by pouring it into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-lock bag for longer storage. This way, it maintains freshness for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw the cubes in the fridge overnight or toss them directly into a blender for delicious smoothies!

What if my chocolate hazelnut milk is grainy?
That can happen sometimes! If your chocolate hazelnut milk has a grainy texture, it likely means the hazelnuts weren’t blended thoroughly enough. I recommend blending the mixture for an extra 15-30 seconds until it reaches a completely smooth consistency. Also, ensure you’re using a high-quality blender to get the best emulsification.

Is chocolate hazelnut milk suitable for those with nut allergies?
Good question! Unfortunately, this chocolate hazelnut milk is not safe for those with nut allergies, as hazelnuts are a tree nut. However, if you’re looking for a nut-free alternative, you can experiment with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds in a similar recipe. Just keep in mind the flavor will vary. Always check with your healthcare provider for the best alternatives.

Can I customize the sweetness of the chocolate hazelnut milk?
Very much! You can easily adjust the sweetness of your chocolate hazelnut milk by adding more or fewer dates according to your taste. Start with two dates, blend, then taste, and if you prefer it sweeter, toss in another date or a splash of maple syrup until you achieve your desired flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to delicious options!