DIY Hazelnut Liqueur Recipe

Hazelnut liqueur flies a bit under the radar compared to its nutty cousin amaretto. However, hazelnut liqueur has a layered and complex flavor that makes it a treat to sip on its own after dinner or shake up in a cocktail.

Note: Whole, raw hazelnuts with the skin on can be found in the bulk bin section of natural supermarkets or at Trader Joe's. This recipe goes light on the sugar, so add more simple syrup to taste if desired.

DIY vs. Buy: How to Make Hazelnut Liqueur

Active: 10 mins

Total: 504 hrs

Serves: 16 servings

Makes: 2 cups

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1/2 pound raw hazelnuts with skin, roughly chopped (about 2 cups)
1 cup vodka
1/2 cup brandy
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1 vanilla bean, split

Combine chopped hazelnuts, vodka, and brandy in a sealable jar. Shake and let steep at room temperature for 2 weeks.
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and heat until sugar is dissolved. Let cool, then add to the hazelnut mixture. Shake and let steep for 3 days, then add the vanilla bean and let steep for additional 3 to 5 days.
Sample often. Once desired flavor is achieved, strain through sieve and then again through cheesecloth or coffee filter. Refrigerate for up to 2 months.

Special equipment

Fine-mesh sieve, cheesecloth or coffee filter

This Recipe Appears In

DIY vs. Buy: How to Make Hazelnut Liqueur

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
68	Calories
1g	Fat
3g	Carbs
0g	Protein

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 16
Amount per serving
Calories	68
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 1g	1%
Saturated Fat 0g	0%
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 3g	1%
Dietary Fiber 0g	1%
Total Sugars 3g
Protein 0g
Vitamin C 0mg	1%
Calcium 2mg	0%
Iron 0mg	0%
Potassium 12mg	0%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.