Ongesuikerde Hazelnootmelk: Review, Smaak en Beste Toepassingen

If you're exploring dairy-free milk options, hazelnut milk offers a distinctive nutty flavor that stands out from the usual oat or almond choices. Elmhurst's Unsweetened Hazelnut Milk is a simple, clean product made with just hazelnuts and water, designed for those who want a rich, creamy milk without added sugars or gums.

In this review, we'll break down the taste, texture, and nutrition of this hazelnut milk, and share practical ways to use it in your daily routine—from coffee to baking. Whether you're new to plant-based milks or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you decide if it's worth a spot in your fridge.

Taste and Texture: What to Expect

Elmhurst's Unsweetened Hazelnut Milk has a pronounced, roasted hazelnut flavor that's both sweet and nutty without any added sugar. The absence of sweeteners means the natural taste of hazelnuts shines through, making it more savory than sweet. The texture is surprisingly creamy for a nut milk, thanks to Elmhurst's unique cold-milling process that retains more of the nut's natural oils and proteins.

Compared to other unsweetened nut milks, this one is thicker and more substantial, similar to the consistency of whole milk. It doesn't separate easily, so you can pour it straight from the carton without shaking. The flavor is bold, so it may be an acquired taste if you're used to milder milks like almond or oat.

• Tasting tip: Try it plain first to appreciate the nutty notes, then use it in recipes where hazelnut flavor is welcome.

Nutrition at a Glance

A serving of Elmhurst Unsweetened Hazelnut Milk is low in calories and contains no added sugar, making it a good choice for low-carb or keto diets. It's also free from common allergens like soy, gluten, and dairy. The fat content comes from healthy unsaturated fats naturally present in hazelnuts, which help keep you full and support nutrient absorption.

Keep in mind that this milk is not a significant source of protein, providing only a small amount per serving. If you're looking to boost protein, consider pairing it with Elmhurst's Clean Protein line, like the Clean Protein Strawberries & Cream, which can be blended into smoothies with hazelnut milk for a satisfying drink.

• Nutrition tip: Check the carton for exact numbers, as nutritional values can vary slightly by batch.

Best Uses in Coffee and Beverages

Hazelnut milk is a natural match for coffee, adding a nutty sweetness that complements the bitterness of espresso. Since it's unsweetened, you can control the sweetness level by adding your own sweetener or flavored syrup. It steams and froths reasonably well, though not as perfectly as barista blends like Elmhurst's Oat Barista. For a truly creamy latte, you might mix hazelnut milk with a barista oat milk.

Try it in a homemade Caramel Cashew Latte or a Pistachio Crème Latte for a nutty twist. You can also use it as a base for iced coffee, smoothies, or matcha lattes. The flavor is strong, so it works best when you want the hazelnut to be a star, not a background note.

• Coffee tip: For a sweeter coffee drink, add a splash of French Vanilla Oat Creamer to hazelnut milk for a layered flavor.

Cooking and Baking with Hazelnut Milk

In the kitchen, hazelnut milk can replace dairy milk in many recipes, especially those that benefit from a nutty flavor. Use it in pancakes, waffles, or French toast for a subtle hazelnut taste. It also works well in creamy sauces, soups, or oatmeal. When baking, keep in mind that the flavor is more pronounced than other milks, so it's best in recipes that complement hazelnuts, like chocolate or coffee-flavored treats.

You can also use it to make dairy-free desserts like puddings or ice cream. For a quick and easy treat, blend hazelnut milk with a ripe banana and a scoop of Clean Protein Pistachio Crème for a nutty smoothie. The possibilities are endless, but start with recipes that call for a mild nut milk and adjust to taste.

• Baking tip: Reduce the sugar in your recipe if you're using hazelnut milk in place of sweetened milk, since the milk itself has no sugar.

Elmhurst's Unsweetened Hazelnut Milk is a flavorful, clean choice for anyone seeking a dairy-free milk with a distinct nutty taste. Its creamy texture and simple ingredients make it a versatile addition to coffee, baking, and cooking. While it may not be for everyone, those who love hazelnuts will find it a delicious and practical option.