Vanilla latte

Vanilla latte

20 min
Step into your own kitchen café with this simple vanilla latte recipe. This coffeehouse classic blends bold espresso with smooth, vanilla-infused milk for a taste that's both rich and creamy. Perfect to start your morning or make your afternoon break that much more relaxing.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/vanilla-latte/

Instructions

  • Pour the milk into a saucepan. Scrape out the seeds from the vanilla pod. Let the vanilla pod and seeds infuse in the cold milk for about 15 minutes.
  • Pour the hot espresso into a mug.
  • Remove the vanilla pod from the saucepan and gently heat the milk to about 65ºC. Whisk to create a soft foam.
  • Add the milk to the mug with the espresso.
Enjoy!

Questions about vanilla latte

Keep reading below to find out more about the most frequently asked questions about vanilla latte.

How can I make my vanilla latte stronger?
Selecting the right coffee blend is crucial to making a great vanilla latte. The goal is to choose a blend of espresso beans that brings out the best in the vanilla, making your homemade latte as satisfying as one from a coffee shop. We recommend trying different espresso blends until you find the perfect balance of flavour, richness and strength that suits your taste. Look out for those that pair well with vanilla, such as deep roasted blends or those that contain notes of chocolate, fruits or nuts.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla pods?
While vanilla extract can be used instead of pods, it won’t offer you the same richness of aroma and taste. To make a genuine vanilla latte that stands out, use a high-quality vanilla pod that will enhance your latte with a deep and complex flavor. Be sure to infuse the milk with the vanilla for 15 minutes to let the flavour fully develop, giving your latte a distinct and refined taste.
What is the ideal milk to use in my vanilla latte?
The ideal milk for your vanilla latte largely depends on your taste preferences. Our recipe uses whole milk for its richness, flavour and creamy texture. It also steams well and creates a beautiful microfoam for lattes. Other popular choices that you may want to try include oat, almond, soy or coconut drink.
Can I make an iced version of the vanilla latte?
Absolutely! First, prepare the vanilla latte and let it cool to room temperature. Then, fill a tall glass with ice and pour the cooled latte over it. This method gives you a flavourful latte without the watered-down taste that comes from adding ice to a hot beverage. You can also blend the vanilla latte with ice for a crushed version that can be topped with a sprinkling of vanilla sugar, cocoa or cinnamon.

Ingredients

Milk
200 ml
Vanilla pod (with seeds)
½
Espresso coffee
30 ml

Make your vanilla latte stand out with these quick and simple tips.

Discover how to add a taste kick to your latte, how to store and reuse ingredients, and how to best serve your drink.

Bring out your latte’s vanilla flavour

Your choice of vanilla sets the tone for your latte. By using a premium vanilla pod and infusing it properly, you can turn a simple latte into a luxurious treat that can compete with the best coffeehouses.

Let the vanilla pod infuse the milk for a good amount of time, allowing the milk to soak up the bean's aromatic qualities. For a stronger vanilla flavor, split the pod so the milk touches more of the bean and its seeds. If you’re after an even stronger vanilla flavour, add a dash of vanilla syrup, vanilla bean paste or vanilla powder. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your taste preferences.

How to store and preserve your latte for the best taste

Enjoy your latte the next day by chilling any leftover vanilla-infused milk in the fridge for up to two days. Seal the container well to keep out other food odours. When you're ready to use it, warm the milk on a low heat. Avoid boiling to keep the milk's creamy texture and rich taste. This careful reheating preserves the latte's warmth and flavor.

Add more taste with these extra flavours

There are several flavours that pair perfectly with vanilla and can be added afterwards to enhance both the taste and aroma of your latte. This includes a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, cocoa, and pumpkin spice, as well as a dash of caramel, chocolate or hazelnut syrup. Experimenting with these flavors can help you discover new favorite combinations and make your vanilla latte even more enjoyable.

Perfect pairings and serving suggestions

A vanilla latte is great on its own, but with the right accompaniment, it becomes an even richer experience. Choose items that don't overshadow the vanilla in your latte. Pair it with pastries like croissants or danishes to highlight the vanilla's sweetness. For a filling meal, try a breakfast sandwich or wrap, which balance the latte's creamy taste. If time allows, an omelette is also a great match up.