Vanilla Latte🍦 Creamy, Comforting, and Infused With Smooth Vanilla Warmth
The Vanilla Latte is the quiet classic — simple, fragrant, and endlessly comforting. It’s what happens when espresso meets steamed milk and a splash of vanilla, creating a soft-sweet cup that’s cozy without being cloying.
Whether hot or iced, this one always delivers subtle, café-worthy calm.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 1 shot (1 oz) espresso or strong brewed coffee
- 6–8 oz milk (whole, oat, or almond all work)
- 1–2 tsp vanilla syrup (or ½ tsp vanilla extract + 1–2 tsp sugar)
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or sea salt
- Optional: whipped cream or vanilla bean garnish
Tools
- Espresso machine, moka pot, or AeroPress
- Milk steamer, frother, or saucepan + whisk
- 8–10 oz mug or heatproof glass
Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
- Pull a 1 oz espresso shot and pour into your warmed mug.
- Optional: add vanilla syrup or extract directly to the espresso and stir.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
- Heat milk gently until just steaming (or use a steam wand or frother).
- Froth until smooth and silky, with ½ inch of foam if possible.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Slowly pour steamed milk into espresso.
- Spoon foam over the top.
- Optional: top with whipped cream or a light cinnamon dusting.
Flavor Variations
- French Vanilla Latte – Use both vanilla extract and a splash of hazelnut syrup
- Iced Vanilla Latte – Use cold milk, cold espresso, and vanilla syrup over ice
- Salted Vanilla Latte – Add a pinch of flaky salt to enhance sweetness
- Coconut Vanilla – Use coconut milk for a tropical spin
Beer Pairing (Optional)
With the Latte
- Cream Ale — soft, lightly sweet, and smooth alongside vanilla
- Blonde Ale — mild maltiness complements the milk and vanilla
- Vanilla Porter or Milk Stout — deeper dessert pairings for an evening treat
In the Latte (Beer Twist)
- Reduce a vanilla porter or cream ale into a thick syrup with sugar and vanilla — swirl into your latte for a beer-fused dessert cup
- Use a splash of vanilla bean stout as a bold mix-in (warm or iced)
Final Thoughts
The Vanilla Latte is mellow, versatile, and endlessly pairable — easy to love and easy to build on. It’s a go-to for mornings that need a gentle lift or evenings that call for a soft, sweet wind-down.
Proof that sometimes, the simplest flavors hit the deepest notes. 🍦☕🍯✨
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