Snickerdoodle Latte (Step-by-Step Recipe)
I’ll admit it, this one’s dangerously easy to make. The kind of recipe you try once, and next thing you know, it’s your “every weekend” drink. It’s simple, cozy, and smells fantastic, so here’s how I make mine.
Equipment
- Espresso machine or coffee maker (French press, AeroPress, or drip. All work fine)
- Small saucepan (for heating and mixing the milk)
- Milk frother, hand whisk, or French press (for frothing the milk)
- Measuring spoons (for your cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla extract)
- Heat-resistant spoon or spatula (for stirring the milk)
- Mug (preferably a big one — trust me, you’ll want the extra room)
- (Optional) Handheld torch or sifter if you like to sprinkle your cinnamon sugar evenly on top
Ingredients
- For the Latte Base:
- 1–2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy, oat, or almond)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or cinnamon syrup
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of nutmeg or sea salt (optional, for balance)
- Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream or milk foam
- Cinnamon sugar sprinkle
- Drizzle of vanilla or caramel syrup
- Mini snickerdoodle cookie for garnish (optional, but fun)
Instructions
- Step 1) Brew the Espresso or Coffee: Start with a good espresso shot or if you don’t have a machine, use strong brewed coffee. I’ve done both, and honestly, they’re equally good. Pour it into your favorite mug (the bigger, the better).
- Step 2) Prepare the Spiced Milk: In a small saucepan, combine your milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar (or syrup). Warm it slowly over medium heat while stirring now and then. The goal isn’t to boil. You simply want to heat it enough that it starts to steam.
- Step 3) Froth the Milk: You can use a frother, whisk, or even the plunger trick with a French press. It doesn’t have to be perfect. I’ve had days where the foam looked a little sad but still tasted amazing. You want that silky and creamy texture.
- Step 4) Assemble the Latte: Pour the warm, spiced milk right into your coffee. Give it a slow stir so the cinnamon doesn’t clump at the top. Then spoon on that froth (or whipped cream).
- Step 5) Finish with Toppings: Sprinkle cinnamon sugar, drizzle a little caramel or vanilla syrup, and if you’ve got one, stick a mini snickerdoodle cookie on the rim. It’s not required, but it makes it feel like a treat instead of just another latte.