Ingredients
Caramel Syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste
- Pinch of salt (optional, for salted caramel)
Beverage
- 1 cup milk of choice (whole milk, 2%, coconut milk, almond milk, oat milk, etc.)
- 1 cup ice
- 1-2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup very strong coffee or cold brew)
- 1-3 tablespoons caramel syrup (from above or store-bought)
- Optional: whipped cream (dairy-free whipped cream if desired) and additional caramel sauce for topping
Instructions
- Prepare Espresso: If you’re using an espresso machine, pull 1-2 shots of espresso and set it aside to cool slightly.
- Make Caramel Syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the water and sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves fully, about 2 minutes.
- Cook Syrup: Cover the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil for 2-3 minutes. Remove the lid and continue stirring constantly until the syrup turns a light amber color. Immediately remove from heat and stir in the vanilla paste. Optionally, add a pinch of salt if you prefer salted caramel syrup.
- Mix Caramel Milk: Pour 1-3 tablespoons of the caramel syrup into a liquid measuring cup depending on your sweetness preference. Add the milk of choice and stir well or use a hand frother to combine and froth slightly.
- Assemble the Latte: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes then pour the caramel-infused milk mixture over the ice. Slowly pour the espresso or strong coffee on top, then gently stir to combine all the flavors.
- Optional Topping: Top with whipped cream and drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top if desired for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- You can substitute espresso shots with strong brewed coffee or cold brew if you don’t have an espresso machine.
- Adjust the amount of caramel syrup to suit your desired level of sweetness.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut milk and dairy-free whipped cream.
- Store leftover caramel syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- The caramel syrup can be warmed slightly before use if it has thickened while stored.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American