Peppermint Latte Recipe [+Tips]

Ingredients For Peppermint Latte Recipe

Let’s break down what you’ll need. It’s surprisingly simple, and you likely already have most of these on hand!

✨ Basic Ingredients

• 1 shot of espresso (or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine)
• 1 cup of milk (whole milk is the creamiest, but oat, almond, or soy milk all work beautifully)
• 2 tablespoons peppermint syrup (store-bought or homemade-more on that in a second!)
• Whipped cream (optional, but highly recommended for that coffee shop flair)
• Crushed candy canes or peppermint bits (for garnish and crunch)

Homemade Peppermint Syrup (Optional But Soooo Worth It!)

If you want to go full DIY, making your own peppermint syrup is a breeze:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract

Just heat the water and sugar together until dissolved, remove from heat, stir in the peppermint extract, and store it in the fridge. That’s it!

How To Make Peppermint Latte?

Let’s turn your kitchen into a peppermint wonderland, shall we?

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brew Your Espresso Or Coffee

   • If you’ve got an espresso machine, pull a shot of espresso (1 oz).
   • No machine? No worries. Brew ½ cup of strong coffee using your method of choice (French press, Moka pot, or drip).

2. Heat & Froth The Milk

   • In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
   • Froth it using a handheld milk frother, blender, or by shaking it vigorously in a tightly sealed mason jar.
   • Pro tip: If you’re using plant-based milk, heat it gently to avoid curdling.

3. Add The Peppermint Syrup

   • Pour the peppermint syrup into your favorite mug.
   • Add the espresso or coffee right on top. Stir to combine.

4. Pour In The Milk

   • Slowly add your frothed milk into the mug.
   • Spoon the foam on top for that café-style finish.

5. Top It Off

   • Add a swirl of whipped cream (go wild-life is short).
   • Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint pieces on top.
   • Maybe even a dusting of cocoa or chocolate shavings if you’re feeling extra.

6. Sip & Savor

   • Take that first dreamy sip and let the peppermint magic begin.

Expert Tips

Want to elevate your peppermint latte from great to oh-my-gosh-amazing? Here are some of my best-kept secrets:

• Use freshly brewed espresso for the richest flavor. Instant coffee can work in a pinch but lacks the depth.
• Warm your mug before pouring in the latte-it keeps your drink hotter for longer (plus, it just feels fancy).
• Don’t overdo the peppermint syrup-a little goes a long way. You want it to complement, not overpower.
• Use high-quality peppermint extract if making your own syrup. Cheap extracts can taste too artificial or harsh.
• Try steaming your milk with a touch of vanilla for a subtle sweet twist-it plays really nicely with the mint.
• Layer the drink like a barista: syrup first, coffee second, milk last. That way, every sip is beautifully balanced.

Recipe Variations

Not in the mood for the classic version? Ohhh, friend, let’s have some fun. There are so many ways to mix it up:

Mocha Peppermint Latte

• Add 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a minty-chocolate dream come true.

Iced Peppermint Latte

• Brew your coffee and cool it, then pour it over ice with cold milk and syrup. Still minty, still delicious, but super refreshing!

☁️ Peppermint Cloud Latte

• Make a cold foam using frothed milk and peppermint syrup, then pour it over iced espresso or cold brew.

Peppermint Affogato Latte

• Pour hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a drizzle of peppermint syrup. Dessert in a cup!

Vegan Peppermint Latte

• Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and plant-based whipped topping for a completely dairy-free delight.

Coconut Mint Latte

• Swap regular milk with coconut milk for a tropical peppermint twist. It’s unique, refreshing, and surprisingly addictive.

Final Words

I mean, who knew a peppermint latte could be this much fun to make, right? It’s cozy, it’s refreshing, and it’s got that perfect combo of sweet and energizing. Whether you’re indulging in a little holiday nostalgia or just want a café-quality treat without leaving your house, this recipe is the real MVP.

And the best part? You can totally make it your own. Play with the milk, adjust the sweetness, go crazy with toppings-whatever makes you happy. That’s the beauty of homemade.

FAQs

What Is A Peppermint Latte?

A peppermint latte is a coffee beverage made with espresso, steamed milk, and peppermint syrup. It combines the bold flavors of coffee with the refreshing taste of peppermint, often served hot or iced.

How Do I Make A Peppermint Latte At Home?

To make a peppermint latte at home, brew a shot of espresso, steam milk (about 6-8 ounces), and add peppermint syrup or extract to taste. Pour the espresso into a cup, add the steamed milk, and stir in the peppermint flavor. Optionally, top with whipped cream and crushed peppermint candies.

What Kind Of Milk Is Best For A Peppermint Latte?

Whole milk is commonly used for its creamy texture, but you can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk depending on your preference or dietary needs. Oat milk is a popular choice due to its smooth, sweet flavor.

Can I Use Peppermint Extract Instead Of Syrup?

Yes, you can use peppermint extract instead of syrup. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a subtle mint flavor. Be cautious with the amount, as peppermint extract is more concentrated than syrup.

How Do I Make Peppermint Syrup For A Peppermint Latte?

To make peppermint syrup, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves or peppermint extract in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers. Let it cool and strain the leaves before using. Store in an airtight container.

Can I Make A Peppermint Latte Without Espresso?

Yes, you can make a peppermint latte without espresso by substituting with strong brewed coffee or using a coffee alternative such as a decaffeinated coffee or a moka pot brew. The key is the combination of coffee, milk, and peppermint flavor.

Can I Make A Sugar-free Peppermint Latte?

Yes, you can make a sugar-free peppermint latte by using a sugar-free peppermint syrup or adding a few drops of peppermint extract and a non-sugar sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Make sure to adjust the sweetness to taste.

What Toppings Can I Add To My Peppermint Latte?

Popular toppings for a peppermint latte include whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or candy cane pieces, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup. These toppings add texture and an extra burst of flavor.

How Can I Make My Peppermint Latte Extra Creamy?

To make your peppermint latte extra creamy, use whole milk or a milk alternative like oat milk. You can also froth the milk to create a rich, velvety texture, or add a tablespoon of cream for a more indulgent treat.

Can I Make A Peppermint Latte Iced?

Yes, you can make an iced peppermint latte. Brew a shot of espresso and let it cool. Pour it over ice, add your milk, and mix in peppermint syrup. Stir well and top with whipped cream or crushed peppermint if desired.