Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Latte Base
- 2 shots espresso (or ¼ cup strong coffee)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (adjust according to sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon molasses (unsulphured and not blackstrap)
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 small pinch ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla syrup)
For the Milk
- 1 cup milk (any milk you prefer)
Optional Garnishes
- Ground cinnamon for sprinkling
- Gingerbread cookie
- Candy cane
Instructions
- Prepare the Gingerbread Base: In a mug (for hot) or glass (for iced), combine the espresso, brown sugar, molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture well until the sugar and molasses are fully dissolved, creating a flavorful gingerbread-spiced coffee base.
- For Hot Latte: Steam the milk to heat and foam it using a milk steamer or a stovetop method. Once steamed, pour the milk gently over the gingerbread coffee base in your mug, allowing the foam to top the latte. Finish by sprinkling a little ground cinnamon on top and optionally garnish with a gingerbread cookie and a candy cane to enhance the holiday vibe.
- For Iced Latte: Add ice cubes into the glass containing the gingerbread espresso mixture. Froth the milk without heating it, using a milk frother or shaking in a jar, then pour the cold frothed milk over the iced coffee base. Stir with a spoon or straw to combine and chill the drink uniformly. Garnish as desired with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a gingerbread cookie, and a candy cane.
Notes
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar and molasses according to your preference.
- Any type of milk can be used including dairy, almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk depending on dietary needs and taste.
- For a stronger gingerbread flavor, increase the spices slightly but avoid overpowering the espresso base.
- The optional garnishes add festive charm but can be omitted if you prefer a simpler drink.
- Molasses imparts a unique depth; if unavailable, substitute with maple syrup, but flavor will differ.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American