Iced Vanilla Caramel Latte Recipe

The Iced Vanilla Caramel Latte is a smooth and indulgent coffee beverage that combines the richness of espresso with the sweetness of vanilla and caramel, all served over ice for a refreshing twist. Perfect for warm mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this café-style drink is easy to make at home and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the coffee shop experience to your kitchen with just a few simple ingredients. The iced vanilla caramel latte is a delightful balance of bold espresso, creamy milk, and layered sweetness from vanilla and caramel syrups. It’s customizable, budget-friendly, and quick to prepare—ideal for busy mornings or a cool caffeine fix.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
• Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Vanilla syrup
• Caramel syrup
• Ice cubes
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• Caramel drizzle (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Brew the espresso or strong coffee and let it cool slightly.
2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
3. Add vanilla syrup and caramel syrup to the glass.
4. Pour the cooled espresso over the ice and syrups.
5. Add milk and stir well to combine.
6. Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel syrup, if desired.
7. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1 latte
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Iced Vanilla Caramel Macchiato: Layer the milk first, then add espresso and syrups on top for a macchiato-style presentation.
• Blended Version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frappé-like texture.
• Decaf Option: Use decaffeinated coffee or espresso if preferred.
• Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free versions of vanilla and caramel syrups to reduce sweetness.
• Extra Creamy: Use half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.

storage/reheating

This iced latte is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the coffee and syrup mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add ice and milk just before serving. Do not reheat, as it is intended to be served cold.

FAQs

What type of coffee should I use?

Espresso is ideal, but strong brewed coffee will also work if espresso isn’t available.

Can I use cold brew instead of espresso?

Yes, cold brew is a great alternative and adds a smoother, less acidic flavor.

Is it necessary to cool the espresso before pouring?

Slightly cooling the espresso helps prevent it from melting the ice too quickly, preserving the drink’s flavor and consistency.

Can I make this drink dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

What brand of syrups works best?

Torani and Monin are popular brands, but any high-quality vanilla and caramel syrups will work.

Can I skip the whipped cream?

Yes, the whipped cream is optional and can be omitted for a lighter drink.

How can I make the drink stronger?

Add an extra shot of espresso or reduce the amount of milk.

Can I make this without added sugar?

Use unsweetened syrups or reduce the amount of syrup to control sweetness.

What kind of milk froths best for cold drinks?

Whole milk and oat milk tend to froth well and add creaminess to iced beverages.

Can I double the recipe for a larger serving?

Yes, simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly to make a larger batch.

Conclusion

The Iced Vanilla Caramel Latte is a luxurious yet easy-to-make coffee drink that combines the warmth of vanilla and richness of caramel in a refreshing iced format. With its balance of flavors and customizable options, it’s a delightful way to enjoy your favorite coffeehouse flavors from the comfort of home.

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