Make a Vanilla Latte (Step-By-Step)
Making a vanilla latte at home is easier than you might think, and with a few tools and ingredients, you'll be able to enjoy café-quality lattes in your kitchen. If you have an espresso machine, great! But don't worry if you don't — I've got an alternative for that too. Here's what you'll need:
Equipment
- Espresso Machine: This is ideal for that rich, creamy espresso base.
- Alternative: No espresso machine? No problem! Use a Moka pot or even a strong French press brew to create a rich coffee base.
- Milk Frother: This helps create that silky, frothy milk we all love in a latte. If you don't have one, you can heat your milk and whisk it until frothy or use a handheld frother.
Ingredients
- Espresso or strong coffee (about 2 shots or 60 ml)
- Milk (about 1 cup of your choice, dairy or non-dairy)
- Vanilla syrup (1-2 tablespoons, adjust to your taste; I love using Torani Vanilla Syrup for its rich, real vanilla flavor)
Instructions
- Brew your espresso: If you're using an espresso machine, brew 2 shots. If you're using a Moka pot or French press, make sure the coffee is strong.
- Froth your milk: Heat it until it's warm but not boiling. Use a frother to get it nice and foamy. If you're without a frother, whisk the milk vigorously until it's frothy.
- Add vanilla syrup: Pour your vanilla syrup into a mug. I like to use 2 tablespoons. But you can adjust it depending on how sweet you like it.
- Combine: Pour the brewed espresso into the mug over the vanilla syrup, then slowly pour in the frothed milk, letting the foam settle on top.
- Extra touch: For a little extra flair, sprinkle some cinnamon or cocoa powder on top.
Video
Notes
Pro Tip: One of my favorite twists is using a dash of vanilla bean powder and syrup for an even richer flavor. It's a simple way to elevate your homemade vanilla latte!