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gingerbread latte recipe

Gingerbread Latte Recipe

A homemade copycat of the iconic Starbucks gingerbread latte featuring warm spices, creamy milk, and rich espresso. This seasonal favorite can be customized to your taste and saves money compared to store-bought versions.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 1 Serving
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Gingerbread Syrup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
For the Latte
  • 2 shots espresso 2 ounces, or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
  • 1 cup milk whole milk provides the richest texture, but any milk works
  • 2-3 tablespoons homemade gingerbread syrup
  • whipped cream optional
  • ground cinnamon or nutmeg optional, for garnish
  • 1 gingerbread cookie optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

Prepare the Gingerbread Syrup
  1. Combine water and sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely (about 3-4 minutes). Add molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to the mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken slightly but remain pourable. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the syrup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Brew the Espresso
  1. Prepare 2 shots of espresso using an espresso machine or brew 1/2 cup of extra-strong coffee using your preferred method. If you don't have an espresso machine, a Moka pot or French press can create strong coffee that works well.
Heat and Froth the Milk
  1. Pour milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until steaming but not boiling (about 3-4 minutes). Alternatively, microwave the milk for 60-90 seconds. Froth the milk using a milk frother, handheld frother, or by vigorously whisking. For a barista-quality experience, aim for a thick, velvety microfoam.
Assemble Your Latte
  1. Add 2-3 tablespoons of your homemade gingerbread syrup to a large mug. Pour in the hot espresso or strong coffee and stir to combine. Slowly add the frothed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon. Top with the reserved milk foam.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Top your gingerbread latte with whipped cream if desired. Sprinkle with a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. For an extra festive touch, add a small gingerbread cookie on the rim of the mug.