Pandan Latte Recipe [+Tips]

The Core Ingredients

• Fresh Pandan Leaves (5-6 Leaves)

  These are the soul of the drink, giving it that unmistakable green color and aroma. If fresh leaves are unavailable, pandan extract or pandan paste works, but fresh is always best.

• Espresso Or Strong Brewed Coffee (1 Shot Or 60ml)

  Use freshly brewed espresso if you can – it adds richness and depth that complements pandan’s brightness.

• Milk (250ml)

  Whole milk works best for creaminess, but feel free to use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.

• Sugar (2 Tablespoons)

  Adjust depending on your sweetness preference; palm sugar or brown sugar adds a nice caramel note that pairs wonderfully with pandan.

• Water (1 Cup)

  For simmering the pandan leaves and making the pandan infusion.

Optional Flavor Enhancers

• Vanilla Extract (1/2 Teaspoon)

  Adds warmth and complexity.

• Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 Tablespoon)

  For a richer, more indulgent latte.

• Ice Cubes (if you want an iced pandan latte).

How To Make Pandan Latte?

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves! Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting this gorgeous green elixir at home.

Step 1: Make The Pandan Infusion

• Wash the pandan leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
• Cut the leaves into smaller sections (about 3-4 inches).
• Tie them into a knot or bundle to release more flavor while simmering.
• Pour 1 cup of water into a small saucepan and bring to a gentle boil.
• Add the pandan bundle, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the water turns a beautiful, bright green and the aroma fills your kitchen.
• Strain out the leaves and reserve the pandan-infused water.

Step 2: Prepare The Coffee

• Brew a shot of espresso or make 60ml of very strong coffee.
• If you don’t have an espresso machine, a Moka pot or Aeropress works great!

Step 3: Sweeten And Combine

• In a separate pot, warm your milk gently (do not boil).
• Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
• Pour in 1/2 cup of the pandan infusion to the milk, mixing well. Adjust the amount of pandan water based on how strong you want the flavor.

Step 4: Froth The Milk

• Froth the pandan-flavored milk using a milk frother, handheld whisk, or even by shaking it vigorously in a tightly sealed jar.
• You want that lovely frothy layer on top!

Step 5: Assemble Your Latte

• Pour the espresso into your favorite cup.
• Slowly add the pandan-infused milk, holding back the foam with a spoon.
• Top with the frothy milk foam.
• Optionally, drizzle a little pandan syrup or sprinkle finely chopped pandan leaves for garnish.

Step 6: Sip & Savor

• Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant green color and the heavenly scent before your first sip.
• Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Now, here’s where the magic really happens – some pro tips that’ll make your Pandan Latte better than café quality:

• Freshness is everything: Always opt for fresh pandan leaves if possible. Their flavor is more vibrant and complex compared to extracts.
• Adjust sweetness carefully: Pandan naturally has a mild sweetness. Be careful not to over-sweeten, or it can overpower the delicate notes.
• Balance your coffee strength: The coffee should have enough bite to balance the sweetness and fragrance of the pandan. Too weak, and the latte becomes cloying.
• Milk choice affects texture: Whole milk offers the richest texture, but coconut milk pairs beautifully with pandan’s tropical notes, giving a hint of creaminess and an extra flavor layer.
• Chill the pandan water before mixing if making iced lattes: This prevents the milk from curdling.
• Store pandan water in the fridge for up to 3 days: So you can quickly whip up a latte anytime.

Recipe Variations

Oh, the places your Pandan Latte can go! Here are some fun and creative variations to try:

• Iced Pandan Latte: Use cold pandan water and chilled milk, pour over ice cubes, and serve with a straw. Refreshing on a hot day!
• Pandan Coconut Latte: Substitute regular milk with coconut milk for an exotic, creamy twist.
• Matcha-Pandan Latte: Mix a teaspoon of matcha powder with the espresso for a dual-green power combo.
• Vegan Pandan Latte: Use almond, oat, or soy milk and replace sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Pandan Latte with a hint of spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the milk while warming for a warm spicy undertone.
• Dessert Pandan Latte: Add a tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk or drizzle with coconut cream on top.

Final Words

Pandan Latte isn’t just a drink – it’s a beautiful experience that transports you to tropical landscapes with every sip. It’s vibrant, fragrant, and a conversation starter. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself to a little green luxury, this recipe is a winner.

Remember, the key lies in the pandan infusion – take your time, be patient, and enjoy the process as much as the end result. It’s an invitation to slow down and appreciate the little aromatic joys in life.

FAQs

What Is A Pandan Latte?

A pandan latte is a unique coffee drink made by combining brewed coffee or espresso with pandan syrup or pandan extract, and steamed milk. The distinctive green color and aromatic flavor come from pandan leaves, commonly used in Southeast Asian desserts.

How Do I Make Pandan Syrup For A Pandan Latte?

To make pandan syrup, simmer pandan leaves with water and sugar until it forms a thick, fragrant syrup. Blend the pandan leaves with water first, then strain out the solids, and cook the liquid with sugar over medium heat until it thickens to a syrup consistency.

Can I Use Pandan Extract Instead Of Pandan Syrup?

Yes, pandan extract is a concentrated form of pandan flavor and can be used instead of syrup. If using extract, start with a few drops and adjust to taste, as it is much stronger in flavor than syrup.

What Kind Of Milk Should I Use For A Pandan Latte?

You can use any milk of your choice for a pandan latte. Common options include whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. Coconut milk complements the pandan flavor well, enhancing the tropical essence of the drink.

Can I Make A Pandan Latte Without Coffee?

Yes, you can make a pandan latte without coffee by using steamed milk and pandan syrup or extract as the base. This variation is similar to a ’pandan milk’ drink and is perfect for those who prefer a non-caffeinated option.

What Does Pandan Taste Like In A Pandan Latte?

Pandan has a sweet, earthy, and slightly floral flavor, often described as a mix of vanilla and coconut with a hint of grassy undertones. In a pandan latte, this flavor complements the creaminess of the milk and the bitterness of the coffee.

Can I Add Sweetener To My Pandan Latte?

Yes, you can add sweetener such as sugar, honey, or a sugar substitute to your pandan latte. Depending on how sweet your pandan syrup is, you might not need extra sugar, but you can adjust to your personal taste.

How Do I Steam Milk For A Pandan Latte?

To steam milk, heat it in a saucepan or use a milk frother or steam wand if you have an espresso machine. Heat the milk until it’s hot but not boiling (around 150°F or 65°C). The milk should have a smooth, velvety texture with a light foam if done correctly.

Is Pandan Latte Popular In Southeast Asia?

Yes, pandan latte is growing in popularity in Southeast Asia, especially in countries like Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Pandan has long been a staple flavor in Southeast Asian cuisine, and the pandan latte brings a modern twist to traditional flavors.

Can I Make A Pandan Latte Iced?

Yes, you can make an iced pandan latte by brewing the coffee, allowing it to cool, and then combining it with cold milk, ice, and pandan syrup or extract. The refreshing cold version is a great alternative to the hot drink, especially in warmer climates.