Starbucks Vanilla Latte

Starbucks Vanilla Latte is a creamy coffee with rich flavor. Save money and make this delicious homemade espresso drink with simple ingredients.

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What is a classic vanilla latte?

A classic Vanilla Latte is a popular variation on the cafe latte.

Some people get confused about the difference between a cappuccino and a cafe latte. Although there are variations, a real cappuccino is equal layers of espresso, steamed milk, and foam.

On the other hand, there is twice as much steamed milk as espresso in a cafe latte and just a thin layer of foam on top. A vanilla latte adds a tablespoon of vanilla syrup to the drink. 

Why this Starbucks vanilla latte is the recipe you must try

There is nothing complicated about this homemade vanilla latte recipe. You can even make it without an espresso maker or milk steamer.

See the “Can I Make a Latte Without an Espresso Machine?” and “How to Steam Milk at Home” sections below. If you want to cool down, try making an Iced Vanilla Latte!

Recipe ingredients

To make this Vanilla Latte Starbucks Recipe, you will need:

• Vanilla Syrup
• Espresso 
• Steamed and Frothed 2% Milk 

A good-quality vanilla syrup that uses real sugar and no artificial ingredients is key to this Starbucks Vanilla Latte recipe. Monin Vanilla Syrup is an excellent option, but you can also make your own.

Vanilla latte ingredient substitutions

You can vary the latte’s flavor by changing the syrup’s flavor. You can try a variety of syrups from classics like Hazelnut and Irish Cream to more unusual syrups such as Chocolate Macadamia Nut and French Toast. 

Try switching out the milk for a non-dairy substitute like oat milk. 

How to make a vanilla latte

Simple steps make it easy to make one of the tastiest Starbucks espresso-based beverages at home.

1. Pour the vanilla syrup into a coffee cup.
2. Add espresso.
3. Add steamed and frothed milk. Stir.
4. Top with frothed milk foam or whipped cream if desired.

Can I make a latte without an espresso machine?

Absolutely. You don’t need an expensive espresso machine to make a latte at home. One of the quickest and best options is to use instant espresso powder. Medaglia D Oro Coffee Instant Expresso is a good choice.

Even if you don’t usually like using instant coffee, the instant espresso powder works well in this Starbucks Vanilla Latte recipe. 

A Moka pot, often a stovetop espresso maker, is also a great option. Moka coffee may not be as acidic as espresso, but it is rich and full-flavored.

You can get a Moka Pot online. Of course, you can also use the coffee brewer you already have and add 50 percent more coffee grounds for a bolder taste.

How to steam milk at home

Although you may not get the same micro-foam level your local coffee shop expects, you can make a pretty passable foam at home without an espresso machine.

• The easiest way is to heat milk on the stove and use a whisk to whip it. You’ll get large, loose bubbles, but it won’t affect the drink’s flavor. 
• Use a stick blender to froth warm milk. 
• You can use a French press to create a decent foam. Learn how to froth milk with a French press by watching this video.
• A standalone electric milk frother does an excellent job of heating and producing good-quality foam. If you make a lot of coffee drinks at home, it is a perfect addition to your kitchen. 

Vanilla latte variations

Besides changing the type of syrup you use in this latte, you can also consider:

• Adding white chocolate sauce.
• Replacing an ounce of milk with an ounce of your favorite bourbon.
• Blending with a cup of ice for a Vanilla Latte Smoothie.

Turn this hot vanilla latte Starbucks recipe into an iced latte

No one wants to drink a hot coffee in the heat of the summer, but the cold version of this coffee is just as delicious.

1. Brew the coffee and put it in the fridge until chilled. You can save time by making a large amount at one time and keeping it in the refrigerator for up to three days. 
2. Combine the chilled coffee, cold milk, and vanilla syrup and stir. 
3. Pour into a glass with ice and add a dollop of whipped cream on top if you want. 

What goes well with this Starbucks vanilla latte recipe?

Since this homemade vanilla latte is already sweet, you don’t want anything overly sugary, but a vanilla scone or a few shortbread cookies will pair well. 

Popular Starbucks drink recipes

• Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso
• Caramel Latte
• Caramel Macchiato
• Flat White
• Iced White Mocha
• Iced Toasted White Chocolate Mocha
• London Fog Tea Latte
• Pink Drink
• Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
• Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher

Favorite fast food drinks

• Dunkin Donuts Iced Coffee
• Frosted Coffee
• Shamrock Shake

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