I’ve made a lot of coffee drinks at home, but this is the drink that cured my mid-day Starbucks habit. It’s smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough. It's quicker than going to the drive-thru and a heck of a lot cheaper, too. If you love a good iced vanilla latte, this one’s worth making on repeat!
Ingredients
- Freshly brewed espresso: really strong coffee works too!
- Vanilla syrup: I used my homemade 5-minute vanilla syrup.
- Milk of choice: Keep it classic with 2% or use one of the many non-dairy alternatives—oat, almond, or soy.
*See recipe card below for ingredient quantities.
What I Use to Brew Great Espresso at Home
I use the Breville Barista Express to make espresso at home, and I love it. It’s a beginner-friendly espresso machine, with a built-in grinder and everything you need to get started.
Another option for your at-home espresso, is a Nespresso Machine. No new skills required, just pop in your favorite capsule and press the start button.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Make it a mojito latte with a sprig of fresh mint!
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
- Make it hot! Skip the ice and steam the milk instead.
Make It Like Starbucks
To make a vanilla latte that rivals your local Starbucks, try these tips!
- Use blonde espresso for a smoother, slightly citrusy flavor that mimics Starbucks’ mellow flavor.
- Add more syrup. Starbucks drinks are sweet—start with 3 to 4 tablespoons of vanilla syrup if you want that same sweet flavor.
- Make it better! Top with Starbucks' copycat vanilla sweet cream cold foam!
How to Make an Iced Vanilla Latte
- Step 1: Add ice to a tall glass.
- Step 2: Pour in your freshly brewed espresso.
- Step 3: Add milk.
- Step 4: Give it a stir and enjoy!
Pro Tip: Keep That Bold Espresso Flavor
Pouring hot espresso over ice can dilute your latte a little bit. To keep the flavor bold, try brewing the espresso over the vanilla syrup first, then add the milk, and finish by filling the glass with ice.
Iced Vanilla Latte (Better Than Starbucks!)
Ingredients
- Ice
- 2 Tablespoons vanilla syrup
- 2 shots freshly brewed espresso
- 8 ounces 2% milk, or milk of choice
Instructions
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Pour in the vanilla syrup.
- Add the freshly brewed espresso.
- Top with milk and stir to combine.
Leave a comment and star rating!