Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte

The first time I tried a Cinnamon Dolce Latte at Starbucks was on a crisp autumn morning when I was running late for work. The barista suggested it as their seasonal favorite, and that first sip changed my coffee routine forever. The warm hug of cinnamon and creamy sweetness was exactly what I needed—but not what my wallet required as a daily habit! After some kitchen experiments, I discovered that this homemade version tastes even better than the original and costs a fraction of the price.

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What Does a Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte Taste Like? 

In Italian, dolce means sweet, and if you see it written on a musical score, you should play the piece softly and smoothly. Those words perfectly describe what Cinnamon Dolce tastes like.

This drink is rich and creamy, with sweet cinnamon being the most noticeable flavor. A touch of vanilla in the background helps smooth some rough edges and keeps the cinnamon from becoming too overwhelming. The combination creates a balanced, comforting beverage that’s perfect for any time of day.

Why This Homemade Version Beats the Coffee Shop Original

There is no need to buy expensive cinnamon dolce syrup when it’s so incredibly easy and inexpensive to make it yourself at home. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy:

For the Cinnamon Dolce Syrup:

• Water – Creates the base for the syrup and helps dissolve the sugars
• White sugar – Provides sweetness and helps create the right syrup consistency
• Brown sugar – Adds depth with caramel notes that white sugar alone cannot provide
• Cinnamon sticks – Infuse the syrup with warm, spicy flavor that defines this drink
• Vanilla extract – Smooths the flavor profile and enhances the cinnamon notes

For the Latte:

• Cinnamon Dolce syrup – Provides the signature sweet cinnamon flavor
• Espresso – Creates the strong coffee base that balances the sweet syrup
• Milk – Adds creaminess and dilutes the strong espresso and syrup combination
• Whipped cream – Provides a luxurious topping that melts into the drink
• Ground cinnamon – Adds visual appeal and an aromatic burst of spice with each sip

It’s essential to use both types of sugar in this recipe. Brown sugar adds a caramel flavor that white sugar alone can’t provide. 

You can use extra strong coffee or instant espresso powder if you don’t have an espresso machine. 

To froth milk without an espresso machine, warm the milk and whisk vigorously or shake in a jar. A standalone frother is a good investment if you often make specialty coffee drinks at home. 

How to Make Starbucks’ Cinnamon Dolce Latte

For simplicity, there are two parts to this recipe. 

Cinnamon Dolce Syrup

1. Combine the white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon sticks, and water in a saucepan.
2. Bring the syrup mixture to a boil over high heat, and then turn down the heat to medium-low.
3. Simmer the syrup for about 25 minutes while stirring occasionally.
4. Take the saucepan off the heat, and cool the syrup for at least 30 minutes. 
5. Remove the cinnamon sticks and stir in the vanilla extract. 
6. Pour the cool syrup into a container. 

Cinnamon Dolce Latte

For each serving of Cinnamon Dolce coffee:

1. Pour a tablespoon of the Dolce Cinnamon Syrup into the serving glass.
2. Stir in the hot espresso. Make sure the cinnamon dolce syrup dissolves completely. 
3. Add the hot milk. You can pour the hot milk over the back of a spoon into the serving glass to create a dramatic layered look.
4. Spoon the foam on top. 
5. Add a dollop of whipped cream if you want. 

How Do You Serve a Cinnamon Dolce Latte? 

Prepare the latte in an insulated see-through mug for the most dramatic effect. Serve with a big dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of cinnamon sugar or a bit of shaved chocolate on top.

For an extra special presentation, add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer.

What Goes With a Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte? 

Ginger snaps or toasted banana bread are perfect for snacking on while sipping this coffee drink. 

Common Questions & Troubleshooting Tips

Can I make this without an espresso machine?

Absolutely! Use one of these alternatives:

• Extra strong brewed coffee (double the grounds you normally use)
• Instant espresso powder dissolved in hot water
• Cold brew concentrate heated up

My syrup crystallized. What happened?

This typically occurs when the sugar wasn’t fully dissolved. Next time, ensure you:

• Stir more frequently during simmering
• Allow the mixture to fully boil before reducing heat
• Store in a clean, dry container

How can I make this drink dairy-free?

Easily substitute the milk with:

• Oat milk (creates the creamiest result)
• Almond milk
• Coconut milk (adds a subtle tropical note)
• Soy milk

Use dairy-free whipped cream or skip it altogether.

Love Starbucks Drinks? Try These Recipes

• Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
• Caramel Latte
• Caramel Macchiato
• Flat White Coffee
• Iced Toasted White Chocolate Mocha
• Iced White Chocolate Mocha
• Kiwi Starfruit Refresher
• London Fog Tea
• Vanilla Latte
• Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher

Favorite Coffee Recipes

• Cinnamon Coffee
• Cold Brew Coffee
• Instant Mexican Coffee

Check out my easy drink recipes and the best Starbucks recipes here on CopyKat!