Sep 03 2026
RestaurantsCafe PasseLatte De Olla Recipe

Latte De Olla Recipe

Inspired by Cafe Passe
Time25m
Serves2

Make Latte De Olla Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Syrup (Piloncillo/Spiced Base)

Method

Syrup (Piloncillo/Spiced Base)

  1. 1

    Combine and dissolve

    In a small saucepan combine the piloncillo (or brown sugar) and 180 ml water. Break the piloncillo into chunks or add the brown sugar so it dissolves more easily.

  2. 2

    Add spices

    Add the 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 whole cloves, 1 star anise, and the optional orange peel to the pan. These provide the characteristic panela/olla aroma.

  3. 3

    Simmer

    Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to fully dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, until slightly reduced and syrupy.

  4. 4

    Taste and adjust

    Taste a small amount (careful, it's hot). If you want a stronger spice note, simmer 2–3 minutes longer. If too sweet, add a tablespoon of water and stir to thin slightly.

  5. 5

    Strain and cool

    Remove from heat, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean jar to remove cinnamon, cloves, star anise and peel. Let cool to room temperature. This yields roughly 200–220 ml of spiced piloncillo syrup; store sealed in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Latte

  1. 6

    Brew coffee

    Brew 120 ml of very strong coffee or pull a double shot of espresso (about 60–90 ml concentrated). If using drip, use extra coffee grounds so the flavor is robust. Keep coffee hot.

  2. 7

    Heat and froth milk

    Pour 240 ml milk into a small saucepan and heat gently over medium-low to 60–65°C (just below simmering) or until steam begins to rise and small bubbles form at the edge. Do not boil. Alternatively, steam milk with an espresso steamer to the same temperature and texture. Froth briefly with a milk frother or whisk for a light foam.

  3. 8

    Combine syrup and coffee

    Place 45 ml of the prepared piloncillo syrup into a warmed 350–400 ml cup. Pour the hot coffee over the syrup and stir to combine so the flavors meld.

  4. 9

    Add milk

    Slowly pour the heated milk into the coffee-and-syrup mixture, holding back foam with a spoon if desired. Spoon foam on top to finish.

  5. 10

    Garnish and serve

    Lightly dust the top with 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Serve immediately. Adjust sweetness by adding more syrup to taste (start with an extra 10–15 ml).

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