Hazelnut coffee creamers add a rich, nutty flavor to coffee, tea, and other beverages. They are used as a substitute for milk or cream to add flavor and creaminess without the dairy. Hazelnut creamers contain a variety of ingredients that provide the characteristic hazelnut taste, texture, and appearance.
Common Ingredients
The main ingredients in hazelnut coffee creamers include:
Oil
Hazelnut creamers contain some type of plant-based oil as the main ingredient. This provides the creamy texture and mouthfeel of the creamer. The oils used can include:
– Canola oil
– Corn oil
– Palm oil
– Coconut oil
– Soybean oil
Canola oil is commonly used because it has very little flavor which allows the hazelnut flavor to come through. The oil makes up around 30-60% of the total ingredients.
Sugar
Hazelnut creamers contain sugar or other sweeteners to provide a sweet taste and balance out the nutty flavor. Granulated white sugar is most commonly used. Other sweeteners can include corn syrup, brown rice syrup, agave syrup, or monk fruit extract. Sweeteners make up around 15-40% of the ingredients.
Hazelnut Flavoring
To give hazelnut creamers their distinct nutty taste, natural and artificial flavorings are added. These are usually listed on ingredient labels as “natural and artificial flavors”. The flavors are derived from hazelnuts or hazelnut oil to replicate the flavor profile. Hazelnut flavorings allow creamers to have the “essence” of hazelnut without containing actual hazelnut ingredients.
Emulsifiers
Emulsifiers are added to hazelnut creamers to help stabilize the mixture of oil and water components. Common emulsifiers used include mono- and diglycerides and polysorbate 60. These keep the ingredients blended evenly throughout shelf life. Emulsifiers make up around 0-2% of the ingredients.
Colorings
To achieve the pale tan color of natural hazelnut cream, colorings are added to some hazelnut creamers. Caramel color is commonly used to provide the light brown hazelnut hue. Natural colors derived from sources like turmeric or annatto may also be used. Colorings make up a very small amount of ingredients.
Preservatives
To prevent spoilage and extend shelf life, preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate are used in small amounts. Preservatives inhibit mold, yeast, and bacteria growth.
Thickeners
Thickeners like carrageenan, guar gum, or xanthan gum are added to give hazelnut creamers a thicker, richer consistency. They help stabilize the emulsion and improve the mouthfeel. Thickeners make up around 0-2% of ingredients.
Salt
A small amount of salt is added for flavor. Salt enhances overall flavor perception.
Natural Flavorings
In addition to hazelnut flavoring, some hazelnut creamers also contain flavors derived from natural sources like vanilla, almond, and coconut. This adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Non-Dairy Sources
Some hazelnut creamers use plant-based, non-dairy sources to provide a creamy texture and nutrition. Ingredients like almond milk, coconut cream, rice milk, and soy milk may be used.
Ingredient Differences
While the main ingredients outlined above are common among most hazelnut creamers, the specific ingredients and amounts can vary between products and brands. Key differences include:
Natural vs Artificial Flavors
– Natural creamers use flavorings derived from real hazelnuts and oils. Artificial creamers use synthetic flavorings to replicate the hazelnut taste.
Dairy vs Non-Dairy
– Some hazelnut creamers contain a small amount of milk or cream. Non-dairy varieties use plant-based sources only.
Organic
– Organic varieties use organic, non-GMO oils and do not contain artificial ingredients or preservatives.
Sugar Content
– Some brands use alternative sweeteners to reduce sugar and calories compared to regular creamers.
Single vs Mixed Flavors
– Pure hazelnut creamers contain only hazelnut flavoring. Others mix in additional flavors like French vanilla or caramel.
So while the basics are similar, comparing labels can reveal some differences between products in amounts or types of oils, sweeteners, natural vs artificial flavors, and other specialty ingredients.
Nutritional Profile
Hazelnut creamers are designed to add flavor to coffee, not significant nutrition. A 1 tablespoon (15ml) serving provides:
| Calories | 20-40 |
| Total Fat | 2-3.5g |
| Saturated Fat | 0-1g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 1-3g |
| Sugars | 1-2g |
| Protein | 0-1g |
As you can see, the main nutrients provided by hazelnut creamers are fat and carbohydrates from the oil and sugar ingredients. There are minimal amounts of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals.
So while hazelnut creamers add great flavor, they provide very little nutritional value. Those watching their sugar and fat intake may want to use them sparingly or find low-fat, low-sugar varieties. But for an occasional sweet, creamy addition to a morning coffee, they can be an enjoyable treat.
Ingredient Safety
The ingredients used in standard commercial hazelnut creamers are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Key aspects of their safety include:
Oils
– The vegetable oils used are considered healthy and safe when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They contain no cholesterol.
Natural Flavors
– Flavorings derived from hazelnut and oils provide the flavor of real hazelnuts without allergenic protein.
Artificial Flavors
– Synthetic flavorings are extensively tested and regulated by the FDA.
Emulsifiers and Stabilizers
– Ingredients like mono- and diglycerides and guar gum are non-toxic and safely consumed in foods.
Sugar and Sweeteners
– Sugar and other sweetener alternatives approved for use in foods are considered generally safe.
Preservatives
– Preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate are syntheszed products that inhibit bacteria, yeast, and mold growth. They have been extensively studied and deemed safe in the very small amounts used in foods.
So while individual reactions can occur, the ingredients in standard hazelnut creamers have been thoroughly assessed and documented as safe by the FDA. Those with food sensitivities or diet restrictions can look for varieties that meet their specific needs.
Common Brands
Some of the most popular national brands of hazelnut creamer include:
Coffee Mate
Coffee Mate is one of the most widely available and best-known brands. Their original hazelnut creamer has a classic nutty flavor. They also offer options like sugar free, natural bliss, and seasonal flavors.
International Delight
International Delight is another top brand for flavored coffee creamers. Their hazelnut creamer provides rich flavor and comes in original, sugar free, and almond milk varieties.
So Delicious
So Delicious makes dairy-free, vegan-certified hazelnut creamers using coconut and almond milk. It has no cholesterol or lactose and is a great option for plant-based diets.
Califia Farms
Califia Farms offers a range of non-dairy creamers, including Better Half hazelnut made with almond milk. It is certified vegan and contains no lactose, soy, carrageenan or artificial flavors.
Nutpods
Nutpods is a brand focused on low-sugar, low-calorie creamers, including an unsweetened hazelnut flavor made with coconut milk and almond milk. It contains just 10 calories per serving.
So whether you prefer a traditional brand or newer dairy-free varieties, there are lots of options to choose from to find your perfect hazelnut creamer.
Homemade Hazelnut Creamer
It’s also easy to make your own homemade hazelnut creamer that allows you to control the ingredients. Simple recipes include:
Basic Homemade Hazelnut Creamer
– 1 cup hazelnut milk
– 1 tablespoon hazelnut liqueur
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
Mix together and store refrigerated for up to 1 week. Shake before using.
Simple Oil-Based Creamer
– 1 cup hazelnut oil
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon hazelnut extract
– Pinch of salt
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Keep refrigerated.
Coconut Milk Hazelnut Creamer
– 1 (14oz) can coconut milk
– 1⁄4 cup hazelnuts
– 2-3 dates or 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla
Blend ingredients together until smooth. Strain if desired before using.
These easy homemade versions allow you to control the quality of ingredients and skip preservatives and stabilizers. Feel free to experiment with your own favorite components and flavors.
Storage Tips
To maintain the best quality and flavor of your hazelnut creamer:
– Store in the refrigerator after opening. The oils can go rancid at room temperature.
– Use within 3-4 weeks after opening for freshest taste.
– Shake or stir well before each use to evenly distribute the oil.
– For homemade creamers without preservatives, store for no more than 1 week.
– Transfer to a smaller container if not using frequently to minimize air exposure.
Proper storage keeps your hazelnut creamer tasting great until the last drop.
Uses Beyond Coffee
While hazelnut creamer is most commonly stirred into hot coffee, it can also be used to add flavor to:
– Tea, hot chocolate, and steamers
– Protein shakes or smoothies
– Overnight oats, chia pudding, or yogurt
– Pancakes and waffles
– French toast or bread pudding
– Milk-based soups like chowder
– Cream sauces for chicken, fish, or pork
– Milkshakes
– Parfaits or trifles
So don’t limit it just to your morning brew. Hazelnut creamer can lend its flavor to baked goods, desserts, blended drinks, sauces, and more. Get creative with your coffee creamer.
Conclusion
Hazelnut creamers provide a delicious way to add a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture to hot and cold beverages. While ingredients vary between brands, the basics include plant-based oils, natural and artificial hazelnut flavoring, sweeteners, emulsifiers, and preservatives. These standard ingredients are considered safe, though those with allergies or on special diets can find alternatives. Popular brands make it easy to find a hazelnut creamer suited to your needs. And homemade versions give you control over ingredients. Beyond coffee, hazelnut creamers can add gourmet flavor to all kinds of other foods and drinks. So stir some into your morning brew or get creative with recipes using this versatile pantry staple.