Start by placing the hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast them for approximately 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently so they don’t burn.

The hazelnuts should become fragrant and lightly golden. Toasting is an important step because it brings out their natural oils and creates a much deeper roasted flavor in the finished drink.

Allow the toasted hazelnuts to cool for a few minutes before roughly chopping them.

Add the water and sugar to a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture becomes clear.

Add the toasted hazelnuts and salt, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for approximately 5 minutes, allowing the hazelnut flavor to infuse into the syrup.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Cover the saucepan and let the hazelnut mixture sit for about 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period allows the toasted nuts to release more of their rich flavor into the sweet syrup.

For a stronger hazelnut flavor, you can allow the mixture to steep slightly longer before straining.

Place a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth over a clean bowl or measuring jug. Slowly pour the hazelnut mixture through the strainer, pressing gently on the nuts to extract as much flavorful syrup as possible.

Discard the strained hazelnut solids or save them for adding to desserts such as ice cream or cakes.

Allow the hazelnut syrup to cool completely before combining it with the amaretto. Pour the syrup and amaretto into a clean glass jar or bottle.

Add the optional almond extract or hazelnut liqueur if you want an even stronger nutty character. Close the container and gently shake until everything is thoroughly combined.

Transfer the finished Hazelnut Amaretto to a clean, airtight bottle or jar and refrigerate it until thoroughly chilled. Give it a gentle shake before serving to ensure the flavors remain evenly blended.

Pour it into small glasses over ice and garnish with a few roasted hazelnuts or a thin strip of orange peel. You can also add a splash to coffee, hot chocolate, or a dessert for an extra nutty flavor.