Ingredients
Vanilla Syrup
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- ½ tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
Latte
- 3 ounces espresso (2 shots) or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- 6 ounces whole milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons homemade vanilla syrup
Instructions
- Prepare Vanilla Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently until the sugar has fully dissolved. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract. Use the syrup immediately or let it cool completely before storing it in a jar in the refrigerator until needed.
- Brew Coffee: Brew 3 ounces of espresso (or 2 shots) or prepare ½ cup of strong brewed coffee as per your preference.
- Heat and Froth Milk: Pour 6 ounces of whole milk (or your choice of milk) into a mason jar. Microwave the jar for 1 and a half minutes until the milk is hot but not boiling. Depending on your microwave’s power, you may need to continue heating the milk in 30-second increments for up to an additional minute. Carefully remove the hot jar from the microwave using a towel or potholder.
- Add Vanilla Syrup and Froth: Add 2 tablespoons of the homemade vanilla syrup to the hot milk in the jar. Secure the lid on the jar tightly and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to 1 minute to create froth. Alternatively, you can froth milk using a handheld milk frother or a French press as outlined in the notes.
- Assemble the Latte: Carefully remove the lid from the jar, mindful of any pressure buildup. Pour the frothed milk over the prepared espresso or coffee, holding back the foam with a spoon and topping the latte with the remaining foam. Serve immediately and optionally garnish with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Notes
- Shaking the hot milk in a jar is an easy frothing method but ensure the jar lid is tightly sealed to avoid spills.
- Other frothing alternatives include using a handheld milk frother or a French press to create foam if you prefer.
- You can store the homemade vanilla syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making latte preparation faster in the future.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of vanilla syrup added to your latte.
- For dairy-free options, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or soy milk.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
