Vanilla vs Hazelnut Flavoured Coffee: Which Tastes Better?
By Beanies Flavour Coffee - Add Some More Flavour to Your Life | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Comparisons
Compare vanilla and hazelnut flavoured instant coffees. We break down taste, caffeine options, and which one suits your daily brew preference.
Quick answer
If you want a creamy, dessert-like coffee that works any time of day, vanilla is your pick. If you crave a cozy, comforting brew with a cookie-like sweetness, hazelnut is the way to go. Both are freeze-dried instant coffees, but vanilla is available in a caffeine-free version, while hazelnut offers a full-caffeine experience.
Taste and aroma: creamy vanilla vs. cozy cookie
Vanilla flavoured coffee delivers a smooth, sweet, and creamy taste that many describe as dessert-like. The natural flavouring blends well with the coffee, creating a balanced cup that isn't overpowering. It's a reliable choice if you enjoy a subtle sweetness without extra syrups or sugars.
Hazelnut flavoured coffee, on the other hand, offers a nutty, warm aroma and a cookie-like sweetness. It's designed to feel comforting and indulgent, making it a popular pick for a cosy coffee break at home or work. The flavour is more distinct and can be a pleasant change if you're used to plain coffee.
Caffeine content: a key difference
One major difference between these two options is caffeine. Vanilla is available as a decaffeinated coffee, which means you can enjoy the flavour without the stimulant. This makes it a great evening or late-afternoon choice when you want a warm drink but don't want to disrupt your sleep.
Hazelnut flavoured coffee contains caffeine. If you need a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon boost, the hazelnut option will give you that familiar energy lift. There's no decaf version available for hazelnut in the current lineup, so keep that in mind when choosing.
Trade-offs: vanilla vs. hazelnut
- Flavour profile: Vanilla is creamy and subtle; hazelnut is nutty and cookie-like, more distinct. Choose vanilla for a gentle sweetness, hazelnut for a bolder, comforting taste.
- Caffeine availability: Vanilla comes in a decaf version; hazelnut is only available with caffeine. Pick vanilla if you want a caffeine-free option; hazelnut if you need the energy boost.
- Best time to drink: Vanilla works well any time, especially evenings. Hazelnut is best for mornings or afternoons when you want a cozy, energizing cup. Vanilla is more flexible; hazelnut is a treat for specific moments.
Product facts at a glance
- Cafeïnevrije koffie met vanillesmaak: Decaffeinated coffee with vanilla flavor. Freeze-dried for easy preparation. Ingredients: Freeze-dried decaffeinated coffee, natural and artificial flavors. You can enjoy a creamy, sweet vanilla coffee any time of day without the caffeine, making it ideal for evening or caffeine-sensitive drinkers.
- Buckingham koffie met koekjessmaak: Freeze-dried coffee with added cookie flavour. Easy to prepare: just add hot water. Perfect for a cosy coffee break at home or work. The cookie flavour offers a comforting, dessert-like taste that's different from vanilla. It's a full-caffeine option, so it works best as a morning or afternoon treat.
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Anyone who wants a caffeine-free, creamy coffee option for evenings or late afternoons
- Coffee drinkers who prefer a subtle, dessert-like sweetness without a strong nutty flavor
Not for
- Those who need a caffeine boost in their flavoured coffee (choose hazelnut instead)
- People who enjoy a bold, nutty, cookie-like taste (vanilla may be too mild)
