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    Home » Recipes » Coffee

    May 30, 2023 · Updated July 24, 2025

    5 Minute Vanilla Latte Recipe

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    · by Amanda Gajdosik

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    This post may contain affiliate links. This blog generates income via ads.

    The top image is a close up of a vanilla latte in a clear mug. The bottom image is milk being poured into espresso in a clear mug.

    This vanilla latte recipe uses a homemade vanilla simple syrup to sweeten freshly brewed espresso before it gets topped with steamed milk. This simple coffee recipe is ready in just 5 minutes!

    A hand pours steamed milk into a vanilla latte in a clear mug.

    A vanilla latte is a very classic espresso drink. Warmly scented with real vanilla and not too sweet it’s a great way to start making your own Starbucks dupe recipes right at home! Ready to get your caffeine fix? Let’s do it!

    Ingredients for this recipe

    If you're crazy for coffee like I am be sure to check out my mocha latte, maple latte, peppermint latte, and pistachio latte recipes!

    How to Make a Vanilla Latte

    This is jut a brief overview, find detailed instructions in the recipe card below!

    Pour vanilla syrup into mug.
    Combine with espresso.
    Top with steamed milk.
    Enjoy!

    Making a Latte Without an Espresso Maker

    If you don’t have an espresso machine at home, I recommend using 3 ounces of very strongly brewed coffee so it doesn’t taste weak.

    Moka pot – A Moka pot is a great option if you don’t have an espresso machine! It will brew a beautifully strong cup of coffee right on your stovetop. I recommend 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water for a strong Moka brew.

    Instant Espresso – you can find instant espresso powder at your higher end grocery stores or online.

    Using a Hand Frother for Lattes

    If you make a lot of lattes at home, I highly recommend investing a few dollars into a hand-held frother. They are inexpensive, easy to store, and work like a dream!

    To froth milk with a hand-held frother:

    • Heat your milk in a microwave-safe jar for 30 seconds.
    • Insert the frother at an angle into in the jar, nearly touching the bottom of the jar but not quite.
    • Turn the frother on for 10 - 15 seconds, or until desired foam as been created.

    Making a stronger latte

    If you like more coffee flavor and less milk, use 4-6 ounces of steamed milk instead of 8.

    Can I use vanilla extract to make a vanilla latte?

    While the scent and flavor of vanilla extract is to-die-for, it should be noted that it is not sweet on its own and cannot be used as an exact swap from vanilla-flavored simple syrup.

    My homemade vanilla extract is studded with real flecks of vanilla bean, but not all vanilla extract or syrup is created equal. If you’ll be making your own syrup at home, I recommend a good quality vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste!

    Iced Vanilla Latte

    Interested in an iced version? Make sure you check out my recipe for an Iced Vanilla Latte!

    An overhead view of the steamed milk on top of a vanilla latte.
    Print Recipe
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    Vanilla Latte – Ready in 5 Minutes

    Made with vanilla syrup, delicious espresso, and your favorite milk this homemade vanilla latte is a sweetened coffee recipe you’ll love drinking!
    Cook Time5 minutes mins
    Total Time5 minutes mins
    Course: Drinks
    Cuisine: American
    Keyword: Vanilla Latte, Vanilla Simple Syrup
    Servings: 1 serving
    Calories: 195kcal
    Author: Amanda Gajdosik
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    Equipment

    • Espresso Maker optional
    • Milk Frother optional
    • Mugs

    Ingredients

    • 1 - 3 tablespoons vanilla simple syrup (more or less depending on how sweet you like it)
    • 2 ounces espresso (or 3 ounces strongly brewed coffee)
    • 8 ounces milk of choice

    Instructions

    • In a mug, combine 1 – 3 tablespoons vanilla simple syrup and 2 shots of espresso and stir well.
    • Using a milk frother, or the stovetop method (see post), steam 8 ounces of milk and pour over the espresso mixture. Enjoy immediately.

    Notes

    • Recipe makes one drink, is easily multiplied.
    • Refer to post for instructions on making a latte without an espresso maker or milk steamer.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1drink | Calories: 195kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 27mg | Sodium: 106mg | Potassium: 418mg | Sugar: 26g | Vitamin A: 367IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 283mg | Iron: 1mg
    The top image is a close up of a vanilla latte in a clear mug. The bottom image is milk being poured into espresso in a clear mug.

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