Enjoy Coffee At The Comforts of Your Home

Vienna Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Note: This page contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases when you click on the link, but you are not charged extra.

Ah, the Vienna Latte – a drink that’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, a velvety cloud of espresso goodness topped with luxurious whipped cream, steeped in rich tradition and bursting with flavor. If you’ve ever wandered into a cozy European café, you might have been tempted by this decadent delight, a true celebration of coffee culture that feels both classic and indulgently special.

Top 5 Must-Try Coffee Lineup
  1. Old World Christmas Beans: Tastes like the holidays in every cup — discover the cozy magic of Old World Christmas Beans before the season slips away.
  2. Kirkland Sumatra French Roast : Dark, bold, and wildly smooth—why Kirkland’s Sumatra French Roast is the best-kept secret of serious coffee drinkers.
  3. Hot Fudge Whole Bean Coffee : What happens when dessert meets coffee? Meet the decadent whole bean that tastes like hot fudge—but better.
  4. Aroma Ridge Guatemala Antigua Medium Roast : From the highlands of Guatemala to your morning mug—this rich, balanced roast is waking up coffee lovers everywhere.
  5. Juan Valdez Cumbre Colombian Coffee : Crafted by Colombia’s most iconic coffee legend—why Cumbre is a must-try for fans of bold, authentic flavor.

Unlike your typical latte, which is often just espresso and steamed milk, the Vienna Latte goes the extra mile. It’s all about layers – the robust espresso, the creamy steamed milk, and that iconic crown of lightly sweetened whipped cream that slowly melts into the drink, creating a silky-smooth experience. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to feel fancy but cozy, sophisticated yet relaxed.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know to make your own Vienna Latte at home – from the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, creative variations, and a final wrap-up that’ll leave you ready to brew the perfect cup and impress anyone who tries it.

Ingredients For Vienna Latte Recipe

Alright, before we jump into the magic-making, let’s talk ingredients. The beauty of the Vienna Latte is its simplicity, but each ingredient is crucial to create that perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Freshly brewed espresso (2 shots or about 60ml)

    • The soul of the drink. Use high-quality coffee beans, freshly ground for that vibrant, robust flavor.

  • Whole milk (about 200ml)

    • For that creamy, rich base – whole milk gives the best texture and taste, but you can also try alternatives (more on that later).

  • Heavy cream (about 50ml)

    • This is for the iconic whipped cream topping. The cream needs to be thick and fresh to whip up perfectly.

  • Sugar (to taste)

    • Traditionally, the whipped cream is lightly sweetened, but feel free to add some sugar to your espresso or milk if you prefer.

  • Vanilla Extract (optional)

    • Just a splash can elevate the whipped cream with a subtle, fragrant hint of vanilla.

  • Cocoa Powder Or Chocolate Shavings (optional)

    • For that finishing touch of elegance and a hint of chocolatey goodness on top.

Pro tip: The quality of your espresso and cream will make or break the experience, so don’t skimp here!

  Nescafe Gold Latte Recipe [+Tips]

How To Make Vienna Latte?

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s break down the process – step by step – with some love and attention to detail.

  1. Prepare Your Espresso

    • Grind your coffee beans fresh, then pull two shots of espresso using an espresso machine. The goal here is a rich, strong base that will stand up to the creamy milk and whipped cream. If you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong brew from a Moka pot or Aeropress can work as a substitute.

  2. Steam Your Milk

    • Use whole milk for best results. Steam it until it’s hot and frothy, creating a velvety microfoam. If you don’t have a steamer, gently heat your milk on the stove or microwave, then whisk vigorously until frothy.

  3. Whip The Cream

    • Pour the heavy cream into a chilled bowl, add a teaspoon or two of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract if you like, and whip until soft peaks form. The cream should be airy but still hold its shape.

  4. Assemble The Latte

    • Pour the steamed milk into the freshly brewed espresso slowly, allowing the milk and espresso to mix beautifully.
    • Gently spoon or pipe the whipped cream on top – it’s the signature touch that defines a Vienna Latte.

  5. Add The Finishing Touches

    • Dust lightly with cocoa powder or sprinkle chocolate shavings for a decadent flair.

  6. Serve Immediately And Enjoy!

    • Grab a beautiful glass or ceramic cup so you can admire those lovely layers before diving in.

Expert Tips

Okay, now that you know the basics, let me share some insider tips that will make your Vienna Latte truly shine:

  • Use freshly roasted beans: The flavor of espresso depends hugely on freshness. Aim for beans roasted within the last few weeks and grind them just before brewing.
  • Control milk temperature: Overheated milk tastes burnt and flat. Aim for about 60-65°C (140-150°F) for that perfect creamy texture.
  • Whip cream gently: Don’t overwhip or it turns buttery. Soft peaks are your goal – fluffy but stable.
  • Preheat your cup: Pour hot water into your serving cup before assembling to keep your latte warm longer.
  • Sweeten mindfully: If you prefer sweeter drinks, try infusing sugar directly into the cream or espresso, but avoid overpowering the espresso’s natural bittersweet flavor.
  • Experiment with espresso strength: If you like your coffee strong, use a ristretto shot (a shorter, more concentrated pull).

Recipe Variations

Ready to mix things up a bit? The Vienna Latte is flexible enough for all sorts of delicious twists:

  • Iced Vienna Latte: Brew your espresso, chill it, then pour over ice. Add cold milk and top with whipped cream. Perfect for hot summer days.
  • Flavored whipped cream: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of liqueur like Baileys or Amaretto to your whipped cream for a boozy twist.
  • Dairy-free version: Swap whole milk for oat or almond milk and use coconut cream to whip for the topping.
  • Chocolate Vienna Latte: Mix a teaspoon of cocoa powder into the milk before steaming for a mocha vibe.
  • Vanilla bean or caramel drizzle: Add syrups to the milk or drizzle over the whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence.
  Starbucks Dubai Chocolate Matcha Tea Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Final Words

The Vienna Latte isn’t just a coffee drink – it’s a mini celebration in a cup. It invites you to slow down, savor each sip, and bask in the perfect marriage of bitter espresso, creamy milk, and decadent whipped cream. Making it at home might sound fancy, but it’s totally doable, rewarding, and guaranteed to impress your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to share it with you.

Remember, the key lies in quality ingredients and attention to the details – like steaming that milk just right or whipping cream to the perfect fluffiness. Don’t be afraid to experiment, personalize, and truly make it your own.

FAQs

What Is A Vienna Latte?

A Vienna latte is a coffee beverage that combines a strong espresso base with steamed milk and is traditionally topped with whipped cream instead of the usual milk foam, creating a rich and creamy texture.

What Ingredients Do I Need To Make A Vienna Latte?

To make a Vienna latte, you need freshly brewed espresso, steamed milk, and heavy cream for whipping. Optional ingredients include sugar or vanilla extract for added sweetness and flavor.

How Do I Make The Whipped Cream For A Vienna Latte?

Whipped cream for a Vienna latte is made by chilling heavy cream and whipping it using a mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. You can sweeten it slightly with sugar or vanilla extract if desired.

Can I Use Milk Alternatives In A Vienna Latte?

Yes, you can use milk alternatives such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk for steaming. However, traditional Vienna lattes are made with dairy milk and whipped cream for the authentic creamy texture.

What Type Of Espresso Should I Use For A Vienna Latte?

Use a strong, freshly brewed espresso shot made from high-quality coffee beans. A double shot is recommended to balance the richness of the steamed milk and whipped cream.

How Much Steamed Milk Should I Use In A Vienna Latte?

Typically, a Vienna latte contains about 6 to 8 ounces of steamed milk to complement the espresso shot, but the ratio can be adjusted based on personal preference.

Is A Vienna Latte Served Hot Or Cold?

A traditional Vienna latte is served hot, with freshly steamed milk and warm espresso, topped with cold whipped cream.

Can I Add Flavors Like Vanilla Or Chocolate To A Vienna Latte?

Yes, adding syrups like vanilla, chocolate, or caramel is common to enhance the flavor profile of a Vienna latte, making it a deliciously customizable drink.

How Is A Vienna Latte Different From A Regular Latte Or Cappuccino?

A Vienna latte differs from a regular latte by the use of whipped cream topping instead of milk foam, giving it a richer taste and creamier texture. Unlike a cappuccino, it generally has more steamed milk and less foam.

Can I Prepare A Vienna Latte At Home Without An Espresso Machine?

While an espresso machine is ideal for authentic flavor, you can make a Vienna latte at home using strong brewed coffee or espresso pods, steamed milk via a frother or microwave, and homemade whipped cream.

Related posts:

  1. Creme Brulee Latte Recipe [+Tips]
  2. Dunkin Donuts Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe [+Tips]
  3. Dunkin Donuts Latte Recipe [+Tips]
  4. Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte Recipe [+Tips]
  Starbucks Hot Chai Tea Latte Recipe [+Tips]