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Vanilla Latte Recipe

Easy Homemade Vanilla Latte Recipe

Learn how to make the perfect hot vanilla latte at home with this easy recipe. Creamy, delicious, and better than Starbucks - master barista skills in your kitchen!
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Course: Drinks, Hot Drinks
Cuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: Vanilla Latte
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 9 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 150kcal
Cost: $0.95-1.35

Equipment

  • Espresso machine, Moka pot, or strong coffee maker
  • Espresso machine, Moka pot, or strong coffee maker
  • Large mug (12-16 oz)
  • Measuring tools
  • Thermometer (optional but helpful)

Ingredients

  • 2 shots espresso (or 4 oz strong brewed coffee)
  • 1 cup (8 oz) whole milk
  • 2-3 pumps (¾-1 oz) vanilla syrup
  • Optional garnish: whipped cream, vanilla powder, or cinnamon

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Coffee Base

  • If using an espresso machine, pull 2 fresh shots of espresso
  • If using alternative methods, brew 4 oz of extra-strong coffee
  • Pour into your pre-warmed mug

2. Make Homemade Vanilla Syrup (Optional)

  • Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a small saucepan
  • Add 1 split vanilla bean or 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring until sugar dissolves
  • Cool and store in an airtight container

3. Steam and Froth Your Milk

  • Pour cold milk into your frothing pitcher
  • Heat milk to 150-155°F (or until steam rises)
  • Add vanilla syrup to the warm milk
  • Froth until you achieve a creamy, velvety texture
  • Tap pitcher gently to remove large bubbles

4. Assemble Your Latte

  • Pour the vanilla-flavored milk slowly over your espresso
  • Start pouring from a height of about 3 inches
  • Lower the pitcher closer to create latte art (optional)
  • Add any optional garnishes

Notes

Notes About Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients makes a huge difference in the final taste of your latte. Here's what to know:
  • Coffee: While traditional espresso is ideal, you can use strong brewed coffee from a Moka pot or even a Nespresso machine
  • Milk: Whole milk creates the richest, creamiest foam, but any milk works, including oat, almond, or soy
  • Vanilla syrup: Store-bought or homemade both work great (recipe below)

Pro Tips for the Perfect Latte

  • Always start with cold, fresh milk for the best foam
  • Clean your steam wand immediately after each use
  • Invest in quality beans and grind them just before brewing
  • Keep your equipment clean and well-maintained
  • Practice your pouring technique for Instagram-worthy results

Nutrition

Serving: 240ml | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 115mg | Sugar: 15g