If you’re an espresso drinker and maple syrup lover like me, this morning beverage is definitely for you. Although I regularly go for a plain black coffee or shot of espresso, I do love a fun, flavored coffee drink once in a while. No offense to Starbucks, but those aren’t really my thing, either. I always think the flavoring is too sweet, and even though I love the idea of pumpkin spice or cinnamon dolce lattes, they just never quite make the mark for me.
Okay, enough ripping on Starbucks. If you’re a PSL addict, go for it! But, I’m here to give you an option that’s just as cozy and delicious as any fancy coffee shop drink that can be made from the comfort of your home. Preferably on a cool, autumn morning, under a warm blanket, with Joni Mitchell playing in the background.
Espresso yourself
Espresso is a style of brewed coffee in which very hot water is forced over a small amount of finely ground coffee beans. The high pressure use during this method creates a viscous, almost creamy beverage. While stronger than a cup of regular black coffee, espresso also holds a great range of flavor in just one ounce (typically called a shot).
Espresso is used to make a multitude of different drinks, including cappuccinos, macchiatos, flat whites, mochas, Americanos, and, of course, lattes!
If you have an espresso machine at home, then I highly recommend using it for this recipe! If you haven’t yet crossed the threshold into espresso-machine-ownership, not to worry. You can still make a pretty delicious drink with strong, black coffee along with the rest of the ingredients.
Just a few more things
Besides the espresso (or black coffee), here’s what you’ll need to complete this drink:
Whole milk Although you can use whatever milk you prefer, I like that whole milk makes my lattes extra rich and foamy
Maple syrup This is what gives your latte a little sweetness. You can always adjust the amount to your liking
Cinnamon The spice that’s always nice. You’ll need some of the ground spice, and a cinnamon stick if you have it
Time to be a barista in your own kitchen!
⟶ the recipe
cinnamon maple latte
ingredients
1 shot of espresso or ¼ cup strongly brewed coffee
¾ cup whole milk, steamed
1 teaspoon maple syrup
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 cinnamon stick
Prep time
2 minutes
Cook time
3 minutes
Total time
5 minutes
1 serving
instructions
Pour espresso or coffee into a large mug. Stir in the maple syrup and cinnamon. Top with the steamed milk, spooning the extra foam into the mug.
Use a cinnamon stick to stir everything together and sprinkle some additional cinnamon on top.
⟶ recipe notes
- Some espresso machines have built in milk steamers, but if you aren’t using an espresso machine and you don’t have one of these handy milk frothers, you can pour the milk into a mason jar, tightly seal the lid and shake vigorously until bubbles begin to form. Then (making sure the lid is off), heat the milk in the microwave for about 45 seconds
⟶ modifications
- You can use whatever type of milk you like for this drink! I do prefer whole milk, because it’s richer and creates more foam, but lighter milk and nut/oat milk work as well
