Caramel latte recipes are easy to come by on Pinterest and Instagram.
But what makes one better than another?
How many times have you seen someone post a picture of their caramel latte with a caption that says “I made my own version of this!”
Well, we’re here to tell you that it’s not necessary to reinvent the wheel when it comes to making your favorite cup of joe at home.
You can easily replicate this classic Starbucks beverage using just three simple ingredients: milk, caramel sauce, and an ice-cold espresso shot.
We’ve collected some of our favorite caramel latte recipes below so you’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time.
Just follow these instructions carefully and you’ll end up with a perfectly creamy caramel latte every single time!
What Ingredients Do I Need To Make A Caramel Latte?
You will need a few basic items before you start brewing your first batch of caramel latte.
First off, you’ll want to gather all of the following ingredients:
– 1/2 cup whole milk (if possible) – 2 cups of water (for boiling) – 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract – 3 tablespoons light brown or organic cane sugar – 16 ounces of good quality dark roast loose leaf coffee – 5 large shots of espresso (this amount may vary depending on how strong you like your espresso) – 4 teaspoons of cocoa powder
Once you have everything gathered, let’s get started!
What Is The Best Way To Make A Caramel Latte?
The best way to make a caramel latte is to use a double boiler.
This equipment consists of two pots connected via a thin metal tube.
The bottom pot contains the liquid to which you want to heat the top pot, while the top pot sits directly over the lower pot.
In order to keep the temperature even throughout both pots, they must sit side by side and never touch each other.
A small gap exists between them so that steam can escape from the top pot as needed.
To begin, fill the bottom pot halfway full with milk.
Then place the top pot inside the bottom pot and cover the entire setup with a lid.
Next, turn the burner underneath the top pot on high heat until vapor begins to rise out of the top pot.
Once this has happened, reduce the heat under the top pot to medium low and wait about 15 minutes for the mixture to thicken slightly.
If the milk starts to boil, simply remove the top pot from the bottom pot and stir well to cool down the mixture.
If you don’t have a double boiler, you can also simmer the milk in a smaller pan placed atop a larger pan filled with water.
Make sure that the smaller pan doesn’t touch the water because it could cause it to boil over.
As soon as the milk has reached its desired thickness, remove the pan from the stovetop and proceed to prepare your espresso.
Next, pour the steaming milk into a tall glass tumbler or mug and then slowly pour the warm espresso over the milk.
Add a bit more milk if needed to create a thin layer of foam on top.
Sprinkle with the cocoa powder and enjoy your very own homemade caramel latte!
How Long Does It Take To Make A Caramel Latte?
It takes roughly 10 to 20 minutes to complete a caramel latte according to different sources.
However, this time span depends largely upon the size of the vessel used to brew your espresso.
For example, if you’re preparing a caramel latte in a teacup, expect around five minutes to fully complete the process.
On the other hand, if you’re working with a bigger pitcher or a mason jar, it will probably take longer.
However, regardless of the size of the vessel, the length of time required to complete a caramel latte is generally dependent upon several factors including the strength of the espresso used, the consistency of the milk used, and the temperature of the mixture.
Therefore, it’s important to note that although the exact duration varies from person to person, the general rule of thumb is that it takes approximately 10 minutes to complete a caramel latte.
What Is The Most Popular Method For Making A Caramel Latte?
Most people who love caramel lattes opt to use a double boiler to brew their drinks.
Some also prefer to use a regular kettle instead of a double boiler because they find it easier to control the temperature.
Either way, once you have mastered the art of creating a perfect caramel latte, you will undoubtedly become addicted to the rich flavor of this delightful treat.
What Flavorings Can I Add To A Caramel Latte?
When it comes to adding additional flavors to your caramel latte, try experimenting with various types of syrups and toppings.
Common additions include chocolate syrup, condensed milk, heavy whipping cream, and fresh fruit such as strawberries and raspberries.
Experimenting with different kinds of syrups allows you to customize your drink based upon personal preference.
For instance, if you’d rather avoid having any dairy products present in your drink, you might consider substituting half a packet of nonfat powdered creamer for the milk found in many caramel latte recipes.
Likewise, if you dislike the texture of whipped cream, you can substitute a spoonful or two of plain Greek yogurt instead.
Another option would be to switch out the milk altogether for soy, almond, rice, hemp, or coconut milks.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of flavored syrups, such as cinnamon or hazelnut.
Try mixing together different flavoring extracts, spices, or salts.
Or go ahead and throw in a handful of shredded coconut flakes or mini marshmallows for extra crunchy goodness.
Whatever floats your boat.
What Type Of Milk Is Best For Making A Caramel Latte?
Whether you choose skim, 2%, 1% or fat free milk, you should always remember that milk is meant to complement the sweetness of your caramelized concoction.
So, if you think your drink needs a little boost in terms of flavor, why not reach for something a little richer? We recommend using whole milk whenever possible since it adds a nice richness to your finished product.
Also, if you’re using soy milk, nut milk, or other plant-based dairy alternatives, it’s probably best to stick with unsweetened options because they won’t interfere with the overall taste of your drink.
And lastly, if you really hate the idea of drinking cow’s milk, feel free to swap out the milk entirely for an equal amount of almond milk, oat milk, or rice milk.
How Much Sugar Should I Add To A Caramel Latte?
Although the exact amount of sugar added to a caramel latte is completely subjective, experts agree that four tablespoons of granulated white sugar per serving is enough to achieve maximum results without being too sweet.
However, if you prefer sweeter beverages, you can always increase the amount of sugar used accordingly.
Also, if you’re looking for a less sugary alternative, you can always replace the sugar in your drink with stevia, agave nectar, honey, or maple syrup.
Is There A Difference Between A Caramel Latte And A Caramel Macchiato?
In short, yes.
While both beverages share similar names, they differ significantly in composition and preparation.
First off, unlike a caramel latte, a caramel macchiato typically uses a frothy milk topping instead of a foamy head.
Additionally, the caramel latte is usually served in a tall glass whereas the caramel macchiato is often offered in a wineglass.
Lastly, the latter beverage tends to contain fewer calories compared to the former.
Ingredients
- 60 ml espresso coffee hot
- 1 tbsp caramel syrup
- 2/3 cup milk steamed
Instructions
- Fill a heatproof glass halfway with coffee.
- Pour in the syrup.
- To combine, stir everything together.
- Pour in the milk.
- Serve.
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My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.