Description
This delightful Gingerbread Latte combines warm spices and rich espresso for a cozy, festive drink perfect for chilly days. Made with a spiced gingerbread syrup sweetened with maple syrup and molasses, paired with steamed milk and topped with optional whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg, this latte is a delicious homemade treat that captures the holiday spirit in every sip.
Ingredients
Scale
Gingerbread Syrup
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 1-2 teaspoons hot water, as needed to thin
Beverage
- 4 shots espresso (4 ounces or 120 milliliters)
- 1 cup milk, dairy or non-dairy (or 1 ¼ cup for a creamier latte)
Optional Toppings
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (for topping)
- Mini gingerbread men sprinkles or cookies (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the gingerbread syrup: In a small bowl, stir together maple syrup (or honey), molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add a splash of hot water, about 1 to 2 teaspoons, to thin the mixture until it is pourable and well combined.
- Combine syrup with espresso: Pour the warm gingerbread syrup into the hot espresso shots and stir thoroughly until the syrup is fully dissolved, ensuring a smooth, flavorful base for your latte.
- Steam or heat the milk: Choose your preferred method to prepare the milk. If using a steam wand, submerge just below the milk surface and steam until silky with a temperature of 150 to 155°F (65 to 68°C). Alternatively, heat the milk on the stovetop in a small saucepan over medium heat, warming it until hot and steamy, or microwave until hot but not boiling.
- Froth the milk: If you heated the milk on the stovetop or microwave, whisk briskly or use a handheld frother until frothy and light, creating a smooth foam suitable for latte topping.
- Assemble the lattes: Divide the espresso and gingerbread mixture evenly between two mugs. Slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon. Then, spoon the milk foam on top of each latte, creating a beautiful layered effect.
- Add toppings: If desired, finish your lattes with a generous dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg. For an extra festive look, garnish with mini gingerbread men sprinkles or cookies.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of maple syrup and molasses to taste for sweetness and depth.
- Non-dairy milk options like almond, oat, or soy milk work equally well.
- Use freshly ground espresso for the best flavor and aroma.
- If you don’t have a steam wand or frother, simply heating the milk and whisking vigorously will create some froth.
- For a stronger gingerbread flavor, increase the spices slightly but be careful not to overpower the coffee.
