How To Make a Creamy Spanish Latte (Easy & Quick Recipe)

Have you ever ordered something at a café, expecting one thing, only to be completely surprised? That was me in Valencia. I asked for a Spanish latte, thinking it would be the same creamy and comforting cup I’d had back home.

Instead, I was handed something richer, sweeter, and more over-the-top. The barista added condensed milk, giving it a silky sweetness that instantly hooked me.

Well, guess what? This guide is all about the Spanish latte. From what it is, how it’s different from your typical latte, and how to make it perfectly at home.

Whether you’re curious about its origins or looking to master the recipe, you’ll find everything you need here. So let’s start brewing!

What Is a Spanish Latte?

A Spanish Latte is a creamy coffee drink. That combos the richness of espresso, the smoothness of steamed milk, and the sweetness of condensed milk or another sweetener.

Also, I enjoy the fact that it’s easy to make this latte at home. Unlike a traditional latte, this one perfectly balances bold coffee flavor and silky sweetness. Typically served hot, this drink is also fantastic iced, which is how I first fell in love with it.

Origins of Spanish Latte

The Spanish Latte has its roots in Spain, where coffee culture is deeply ingrained in daily life. Inspired by the classic café con leche, it adds a unique twist with condensed milk, creating a creamier, sweeter drink that balances bold espresso flavors.

This creamy drink didn’t stay confined to Spain; it found a new home in Southeast Asia, where condensed milk was already a coffee staple because of limited access to fresh dairy.

There, it evolved further, often served iced to suit tropical climates. Over time, the Spanish Latte gained international popularity, becoming a favorite in cafés worldwide.

Tips For the Perfect Spanish Latte

I’ve had my fair share of hits and misses while experimenting. However, I’ve picked up a few handy tricks. For instance:

1 – Adjust Sweetness

If you love a dessert-like sweetness, add an extra tablespoon of condensed milk or even drizzle in some caramel for a fun twist.

On the flip side, if you prefer your coffee less sweet, scale back to a teaspoon or use just a splash of milk.

2 – Milk Alternatives

While whole milk is the classic choice for its creamy texture, there’s no rule saying you can’t get creative.

• Almond milk adds a slightly nutty flavor
• Soy milk keeps it smooth
• Coconut milk can give your Spanish Latte a tropical vibe.

I once made it with oat milk, and the natural sweetness works beautifully with the espresso.

Note: If you’re using plant-based milk, just make sure to heat it gently to avoid curdling.

3 – Temperature Control

The milk temperature is the key to a smooth and velvety Spanish Latte. Overheated milk can become scalded and lose its creamy texture, which can ruin the drink’s balance.

For this reason, keep your milk just warm enough. Around 140°F is ideal. I made the mistake of boiling my milk once, and let’s just say it wasn’t pretty (or drinkable).

I suggest investing in a milk thermometer if you’re a stickler for precision, or just keep an eye on the steam and stop before it gets too hot.

Other Variations And Their Differences

What sets the Spanish Latte apart from other popular coffee drinks? Let’s compare it:

Café con Leche

A Café con Leche is its simpler cousin, made with just espresso and steamed milk, without any added sweeteners. The Spanish Latte elevates this concept with the sweetness of condensed milk.

Classic Latte

While a classic latte uses steamed milk and sometimes sugar, the Spanish Latte’s use of condensed milk creates a thicker, creamier texture and a much sweeter profile.

Cortado

A cortado focuses on balancing equal parts espresso and milk, with no sweeteners. It’s sharper and more intense than a Spanish Latte’s mellow creaminess.

Vietnamese Coffee

This drink also has condensed milk but is usually served cold and uses strong robusta coffee. The Spanish Latte leans more toward a European-style presentation and can be enjoyed both hot and iced.

For me, the Spanish Latte is special because it’s like a treat and a caffeine fix rolled into one.

Last Thoughts

Have you tried making a Spanish Latte at home? Do you have a favorite variation or secret ingredient? I’d love to hear your tips, questions, or experiences in the comments, and with that voilà!

«