Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte Recipe [+Tips]

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Oh, the Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte. It’s like a warm hug in a cup, isn’t it? Silky steamed milk, rich espresso, and that sweet, smooth vanilla flavor that dances across your taste buds-it’s no wonder it’s a staple for so many Canadians (and beyond!). Whether you’re fueling up for a long day or treating yourself during a cozy night in, this latte hits the spot every single time.

But let’s be real. Daily coffee shop runs? They add up. And sometimes you just want to enjoy that same taste in the comfort of your own home-maybe in fuzzy socks, maybe binge-watching your latest Netflix obsession.

The good news? You can absolutely whip up a Tim Hortons-style Vanilla Latte yourself-and you don’t need a barista certification to do it. Let me show you how, step by step.

Ingredients For Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte Recipe

Let’s talk ingredients. You don’t need a truckload of fancy equipment or hard-to-find syrups-just a few key staples, most of which you probably already have.

Here’s what you’ll need:

☕ Base Ingredients

  • Espresso or Strong Brewed Coffee (2 shots or about ½ cup)

    • Ideally espresso, but if you don’t have a machine, strong brewed coffee or even instant espresso will do!
  • Whole Milk (1 cup)

    • For that signature creamy texture. You can sub with 2%, oat, almond, or soy-your call.
  • Vanilla Syrup (2 tablespoons)

    • You can buy a pre-made one (like Torani or Starbucks) or make your own (recipe below!).

Optional (But Recommended) Toppings

  • Whipped Cream

    • Adds that indulgent finishing touch, just like the café version.
  • A Sprinkle Of Vanilla Sugar Or Cinnamon

    • Totally optional, but let’s be honest-it’s the little things that make it feel extra special.
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DIY Vanilla Syrup (If You Want To Go The Homemade Route)

If you’re the crafty type (or just forgot to buy syrup), make your own!

  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Directions

Combine water and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla, and let cool. Store in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Voilà!

How To Make Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte?

Alright, the ingredients are set, your kitchen smells amazing already, and it’s time to brew some magic. Follow this simple process, and you’ll have a Vanilla Latte that tastes just like Tim’s.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brew Your Coffee Or Espresso

    • Use an espresso machine, Moka pot, Aeropress, or your favorite method. If you’re using a drip coffee maker, just make it extra strong-about 2x your usual coffee-to-water ratio.
  2. Heat & Froth The Milk

    • In a saucepan or milk frother, gently heat the milk until hot but not boiling.
    • Froth using a milk frother, handheld whisk, or even a mason jar (just shake it hard for 30-60 seconds and then microwave for a few more).
  3. Add The Vanilla Syrup

    • Pour your vanilla syrup into the bottom of your mug.
  4. Pour In The Espresso

    • Gently pour your brewed espresso or strong coffee over the syrup.
  5. Top With Steamed Milk

    • Slowly pour the steamed, frothed milk into the mug, holding back the foam with a spoon at first, then topping it off with that beautiful foam cloud.
  6. Add Finishing Touches

    • If you’re feeling fancy, swirl on some whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or vanilla sugar.

That’s it-you’ve made yourself a Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte at home. And it didn’t even cost $5+.

Expert Tips

Want to level up your latte game? These little nuggets of wisdom can take your homemade latte from ’pretty good’ to “OMG better than Timmies”!

  • Use Freshly Brewed Espresso For Best Flavor

    Fresh is best. Always. Instant coffee works in a pinch, but it won’t give you that robust espresso body.

  • Whole Milk = Creamiest Froth

    If you’re after that signature velvety texture, whole milk froths best. But don’t sleep on oat milk-it’s a close second and dairy-free.

  • Warm Your Mug

    Rinse your mug with hot water before pouring in your latte. It keeps everything warmer longer. Such a small touch, but trust me, it makes a difference!

  • Customize Sweetness

    Love it super sweet? Add more syrup. Prefer it subtle? Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste. You’re in charge here.

  • Double Up For Iced Vanilla Latte

    Use chilled espresso, cold milk, vanilla syrup, and lots of ice. Boom-iced version, summer-friendly, still delicious.

Recipe Variations

Feeling a little adventurous? Here’s how you can tweak the classic Vanilla Latte to match your mood or dietary preferences:

Iced Vanilla Latte

  • Skip the steamed milk and pour everything over ice.
  • Great for hot days or when you just need something chill.

Vanilla Mocha Latte

  • Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup with the vanilla syrup.
  • It’s like a warm dessert in a mug. You’re welcome.

Sugar-Free Vanilla Latte

  • Use a sugar-free vanilla syrup (there are plenty out there!).
  • Great for keto or low-carb lifestyles.
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Pumpkin Spice Vanilla Latte

  • Add 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree and ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the milk before frothing.
  • Basically fall in a cup.

Dirty Vanilla Chai

  • Mix in a shot of chai concentrate with your espresso and vanilla syrup.
  • Sweet, spicy, creamy-a flavor bomb!

Final Words

There’s something incredibly satisfying about mastering your favorite coffee shop drinks at home, don’t you think? You’re saving money, controlling the ingredients, and creating something you can tweak to your exact taste. The Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte isn’t complicated, but it’s rich, cozy, and comforting-everything a good latte should be.

And let’s be honest, once you’ve made it a few times, you’ll start getting creative with it. Different syrups, milk combos, even seasonal spices-it’s a whole world of flavor just waiting for you to play barista.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make A Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte At Home?

To make a Tim Hortons vanilla latte at home, you will need espresso or strong brewed coffee, steamed milk, vanilla syrup, and optionally whipped cream for topping.

How Do I Make The Vanilla Syrup Used In A Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte?

Vanilla syrup can be made by combining equal parts water and sugar, heating until the sugar dissolves, then adding vanilla extract. Let it cool before using. Store in a sealed container in the fridge.

What Type Of Milk Is Best For A Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte?

Tim Hortons typically uses 2% milk for their lattes, but you can use whole milk for a creamier texture or any milk alternative such as almond, oat, or soy milk depending on your preference.

How Much Vanilla Syrup Should I Add To Replicate The Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte Taste?

Generally, 1 to 2 tablespoons of vanilla syrup per 8-ounce latte is recommended to closely match the sweetness and flavor of Tim Hortons vanilla latte.

Can I Make A Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte Without An Espresso Machine?

Yes, you can use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder as a substitute for espresso. Steamed milk can be warmed and frothed using a microwave and a frother or by shaking heated milk in a jar.

What Is The Typical Preparation Process For A Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte?

The process involves pulling a shot of espresso, adding steamed milk, mixing in vanilla syrup, and optionally topping with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.

How Many Calories Are In A Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte?

A medium Tim Hortons vanilla latte typically contains around 180 to 250 calories, depending on milk choice and amount of syrup used.

Is The Vanilla Syrup Used By Tim Hortons Natural Or Artificial?

Tim Hortons vanilla syrup generally contains artificial flavorings along with sugar and water, designed to deliver a consistent taste.

Can I Customize My Homemade Tim Hortons Vanilla Latte For Dietary Restrictions?

Yes, you can customize the latte by using dairy-free milk alternatives, sugar-free vanilla syrup, or reducing the amount of syrup to suit your dietary needs.

How Should I Store Leftover Vanilla Syrup For Future Use?

Store leftover vanilla syrup in an airtight container or bottle in the refrigerator. It typically stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.