Flavored Latte Recipe

Pull espresso

Brew two shots of espresso (about 60 ml total). If you do not have an espresso machine, brew a strong 60 ml coffee using a Moka pot, AeroPress, or concentrated drip method. Transfer the hot espresso to your serving cup.

Add syrup

Pour 2 tablespoons of your chosen flavored syrup into the serving cup with the hot espresso. If you prefer extra sweetness, add 1 teaspoon of simple syrup or sugar and stir until fully dissolved.

Steam or heat milk

Heat 10 fl oz (about 300 ml) of whole milk until steaming but not boiling (between 60–65°C / 140–150°F) and texture it to create microfoam. If you have a steam wand, submerge the tip just below the surface to incorporate small bubbles for 15–30 seconds, then heat until the pitcher is warm to the touch. If you do not have a steam wand, heat milk on the stovetop or microwave until hot (but not boiling) and froth using a handheld frother, French press, or by shaking hot milk in a sealed jar for 20–30 seconds.

Combine milk with espresso

Tilt the cup slightly and pour the steamed milk into the espresso and syrup mixture slowly, using a spoon to hold back the foam at first and then spooning or pouring the microfoam on top to create a layered latte. Aim for a final drink volume of about 12 fl oz (including espresso and syrup).

Finish & garnish

If desired, top the latte with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream. Lightly dust the surface with a pinch (about 1 tsp) of ground cinnamon or cocoa. For a vanilla-forward latte using homemade syrup, add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to 2 tablespoons of warm simple syrup before adding to espresso.