Description

This cozy Gingerbread Latte recipe combines rich espresso with warm gingerbread spices and a touch of molasses and maple syrup for natural sweetness. Steamed milk adds a silky, creamy texture, perfect for warming up cold days or adding a festive touch to your coffee routine. Optional whipped cream and spice toppings elevate this latte to a café-quality treat you can easily make at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Syrup Ingredients

2-3 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
1 tablespoon molasses
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch ground nutmeg
1 pinch ground cloves
1-2 teaspoons hot water, as needed to thin

Beverage Ingredients

4 shots espresso (4 ounces or 120 milliliters)
1 cup milk, dairy or non-dairy (or 1 ¼ cup for a creamier latte)
Whipped cream (optional)
Cinnamon or nutmeg (for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the Gingerbread Syrup: In a small bowl, stir together maple syrup (or honey), molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add a splash of hot water to thin the mixture until it becomes pourable and syrupy.
Combine with Espresso: Pour the warm gingerbread syrup into freshly brewed hot espresso and stir thoroughly until the syrup is fully dissolved, creating a flavorful base for your latte.
Steam the Milk (Steam Wand Method): Submerge the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk and steam until it develops a silky texture and reaches approximately 150 to 155 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for latte texture.
Heat and Froth Milk (Frother Method): Alternatively, heat the milk in the microwave or on the stove until hot but not boiling, then use a handheld frother to create a foamy texture.
Heat and Whisk Milk (Stovetop Method): Or warm the milk gently in a small pot over medium heat until hot and steamy, then whisk briskly to incorporate air and create light foam.
Assemble the Latte: Divide the espresso and gingerbread syrup mixture evenly between two mugs. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon if necessary. Then spoon the milk foam on top to finish the latte.
Add Finishing Touches: Optionally, top each latte with a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor and festive presentation. You can also add gingerbread men sprinkles or cookies as a charming garnish.

Notes

You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey.
Use any milk of your choice—dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or soy—for a vegan or dairy-free version.
For a creamier latte, use 1 ¼ cups milk instead of 1 cup.
If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee can be substituted, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Freshly brewed hot espresso is important to properly dissolve the gingerbread syrup for the best taste.
Watch milk temperature carefully when steaming or heating to avoid scorching or overheating.
Optional whipped cream adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter beverage.