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Okay, first things first – what’s all the fuss about the Starbucks Oat Milk Latte? If you’re a coffee lover who’s also jumped on the plant-based bandwagon, this drink is basically a match made in heaven. Imagine your classic latte, but with a silky smooth twist courtesy of oat milk, instead of regular dairy. The oat milk lends a naturally sweet, slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich, bold espresso shots.
So, if you’re craving that coffeehouse vibe but want to customize it to your taste and save some money, this recipe is your new best friend. I’ll walk you through every step, sprinkle in some pro tips, and even throw in a few tasty twists for variety. By the end, you’ll be an oat milk latte maestro!
Contents
Now, let’s talk ingredients – because a great latte starts with great components. And the best part? These are simple, easy-to-find, and clean.
The heart and soul of your latte. Use freshly ground coffee beans if you can, and pull a strong espresso shot. If you don’t have an espresso machine, don’t fret – I’ll cover alternatives below.
Go for a barista blend oat milk if possible. These versions are specially formulated to froth well and have a richer mouthfeel. But regular oat milk will work too.
This adds that iconic Starbucks vanilla latte note. You can buy it pre-made or make your own at home.
For garnish or a little extra flavor warmth.
Alright, here’s where the magic happens! Making this latte at home is easier than you think, and I’ll break it down step-by-step.
Since I want your latte to taste just right, here are some insider nuggets:
Now, let’s have some fun and mix things up a bit. Here are a few tasty variations to suit your mood or season:
Simply pour your espresso over ice, add cold oat milk, and stir in syrup or sweetener. Perfect for hot days!
Add 1 tbsp of cocoa powder or chocolate syrup to your espresso before adding oat milk for a rich mocha treat.
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice to the oat milk before steaming for a warm, cozy flavor.
Swap espresso for 1-2 tsp of matcha powder whisked in hot water, then add steamed oat milk for a green tea twist.
Use honey as your sweetener with a splash of vanilla extract for a naturally sweet combo.
Making your own Starbucks Oat Milk Latte at home is not only fun but also super rewarding. You get to control the sweetness, milk choice, and coffee strength – and it’s a fantastic way to impress yourself and your friends with café-level barista skills.
Plus, the oat milk latte is a guilt-free indulgence that suits nearly everyone: lactose-intolerant folks, vegans, environmentally-conscious coffee lovers, and anyone craving a smooth, creamy cup of joy.
And the best part? It’s customizable, affordable, and always fresh.
To make a Starbucks oat milk latte at home, you need espresso or strong brewed coffee, oat milk (preferably a barista blend), and optional sweeteners like vanilla syrup or brown sugar syrup. You may also want to garnish with cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
Starbucks uses Oatly Barista Edition oat milk, which is specially formulated to froth well and blend smoothly with espresso-based drinks. It has a creamy texture and neutral flavor that complements coffee.
To froth oat milk like Starbucks, heat the oat milk to around 150°F (65°C), then use a steam wand, electric frother, or French press to create microfoam. Barista-style oat milk froths best due to its added stabilizers and fats.
Yes, you can use strong brewed coffee, instant espresso powder, or a stovetop Moka pot as a substitute for espresso. Combine it with frothed oat milk to replicate the latte experience.
A typical Starbucks oat milk latte has a 1:3 ratio of espresso to steamed oat milk. For example, one shot of espresso (1 oz) is combined with about 6-8 oz of steamed oat milk, depending on the desired strength.
The default Starbucks oat milk latte is unsweetened unless you request a flavor syrup like vanilla, brown sugar, or cinnamon dolce. The natural sweetness of oat milk adds mild flavor without added sugar.
Popular syrups to add to an oat milk latte include vanilla, brown sugar, caramel, cinnamon dolce, and hazelnut. Brown sugar syrup is especially popular in Starbucks’ Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso.
Yes, simply brew a double shot of espresso, pour it over ice, and top with cold oat milk. You can also add syrup before mixing. Shake or stir well to combine.
Oat milk is a popular dairy-free option that’s generally lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than cow’s milk. It also provides fiber and some vitamins, but can be higher in sugars depending on the brand. Always check labels for added sugars or oils.
To make it at home, shake 2 shots of espresso with 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar syrup and a pinch of cinnamon in a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour into a glass and top with oat milk. Stir gently and serve over ice.