A Barista’s Guide to the Perfect Maple Cinnamon Latte at Home

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, nothing warms the soul quite like a Maple Cinnamon Latte. This cozy drink combines the earthy sweetness of maple syrup with the warm spice of cinnamon. The result is a perfect autumnal treat.

Whether you’re cuddling up with a good book or starting a chilly morning, this latte promises comfort. Best of all, it only takes a few simple ingredients and easy steps!

So grab your favorite mug, and let’s whip up something delicious that celebrates the essence of fall.

Ingredients Notes

• Espresso or Strong Coffee: Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor, or a strong coffee as an alternative.
• Milk: Any type will do, but for the creamiest texture, whole milk is recommended. Plant-based milks like almond or oat also work well.
• Maple Syrup: Choose pure maple syrup for natural sweetness and rich flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds the quintessential spice. Freshly ground has the most vibrant taste.
• Whipped Cream (optional): For a touch of indulgence, top your latte with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Exact Products I Used and the Best Vegan Alternatives:

Coffee

• Nespresso Inspirazione Napoli Pods: I use these for a quick, rich espresso shot. These pods are dark roast and very flavorful, making them ideal for this latte.
• Starbucks French Roast Dark Roast Coffee: If you prefer brewed coffee, this is a great strong option. I find it gives a robust base for the latte.

Milk

• Horizon Organic Whole Milk: For the creamiest latte, I often reach for Horizon. It froths beautifully and adds a rich texture.
• Oatly Oat Milk Barista Edition: For a plant-based alternative, I use Oatly. It’s creamy and froths up nicely, perfect for vegan lattes.

Maple Syrup

• Coombs Family Farms Organic Maple Syrup: This is my go-to for the best natural sweetness. It’s pure, organic, and has a wonderfully rich maple flavor that enhances the latte.

Ground Cinnamon

• Simply Organic Cinnamon: This brand offers a high-quality, freshly ground cinnamon that’s vibrant and perfect for adding that essential spice to the latte.

Whipped Cream

• Reddi-wip Extra Creamy Whipped Cream: I top my latte with this whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s light and has just the right sweetness.
• So Delicious Dairy Free CocoWhip: A fantastic vegan option that’s perfect for plant-based versions of maple cinnamon latte.

Also check out:

• 26 Cozy Fall Coffee Drinks You’ll Love in 2024
• Caffé Shakerato Recipe: A Taste of Italy at Home
• Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso Recipe: Your New Go-To Drink!

Maple Cinnamon Latte Step-By-Step Guide

Step 1: Brew the Coffee

Espresso Preparation: If you have a Nespresso machine, start by inserting your espresso pod.

Pro tip: Brew directly into a warm mug to maintain the espresso’s temperature and flavor integrity. For a stronger brew, select a ‘short’ pour option if available.

Using Ground Coffee: If you’re using ground coffee like Starbucks French Roast, aim for a ratio of about 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water to ensure it’s strong enough to mimic espresso.

Pro tip: Use a French press for best results and let the coffee steep for four minutes before pressing.

Step 2: Heat and Froth the Milk

In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of Coombs Family Farms Maple Syrup, and ½ teaspoon of Simply Organic Cinnamon.

Heat this mixture over medium heat, but be careful not to let it boil to avoid scalding the milk.

Once the milk is warm, use a whisk to stir the milk mixture and create a froth. Or, if you have a frother, transfer the warm milk mixture to a frothing pitcher and froth until you achieve soft, velvety foam.

Pro tip: For electronic frothers, use the ‘hot froth’ setting.

Step 3: Combine and Pour

With your espresso or strong coffee already in your mug, slowly pour in the frothy milk mixture.

Pro tip: Pouring from a low height can help integrate the milk smoothly without disrupting the base layer of espresso too much.

Gently stir the top third of the beverage to mix some of the maple and cinnamon into the coffee, while allowing the bottom to remain dark and rich.

Step 4: Garnish

If you’re adding whipped cream, shake the can well, then hold it vertically and swirl a generous amount onto the top of your latte.

The cold cream will sit beautifully on the hot drink and slowly melt into the latte, adding a creamy texture.

For a final touch, sprinkle a bit more ground cinnamon over the whipped cream. This enhances the visual appeal and also boosts the cinnamon scent, enriching the overall flavor experience.

Tips for the Best Maple Cinnamon Latte

• For a richer maple flavor, add an extra teaspoon of syrup.
• If using a milk frother, heat the milk mixture before frothing for the best texture.
• A small pinch of nutmeg can enhance the cinnamon and maple flavors beautifully.
• Fill your mug with hot water while preparing your ingredients. Empty it before brewing the espresso into it. This keeps your drink warmer for longer.
• Taste your milk mixture before frothing and adjust the maple syrup or cinnamon to your liking. Everyone’s sweetness and spice preferences can differ, so tailor it to your taste.