Homemade Strawberry Latte Recipe (Fresh & Creamy)

When I first heard about strawberry lattes, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

I love strawberries. I love lattes. But together? It sounded like something either amazing or… odd.

Still, I had to try it—and honestly, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. It’s creamy, fruity, just sweet enough, and has this cozy, café vibe without the need to step outside your house.

If you’re someone who likes experimenting with fun drinks at home, this one’s worth adding to your list.

Why You Should Try a Strawberry Latte

Unlike basic coffee drinks, a strawberry latte adds a layer of flavor that feels a little more fun and unexpected.

It’s not too sweet, not too strong, and it’s a nice switch from the usual vanilla or caramel flavors.

I especially like making this when I want something comforting but still want my caffeine fix. It’s also great as an afternoon pick-me-up or even a fun weekend brunch drink.

If you’ve seen those aesthetic pink drinks all over Pinterest or TikTok, this is one of them—except it actually tastes as good as it looks.

Strawberry Latte Ingredients

You don’t need anything fancy to make a strawberry latte at home, but I recommend using fresh strawberries when you can.

The syrup just tastes better, and you get more control over the sweetness.

• Fresh strawberries – I use about 1 cup of chopped strawberries. Frozen works too if you thaw them first.
• Sugar – Regular granulated sugar is fine, but you can also use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor.
• Milk – Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but oat milk or almond milk work great too.
• Vanilla extract (optional) – Just a few drops round out the flavor.
• Espresso – One or two shots, depending on how strong you like it. You can use a machine, moka pot, or Nespresso.

My Tips for the Best Strawberry Latte

After testing this recipe a few times, here are a few things I’ve learned:

• Use ripe strawberries. If they’re pale or not very sweet, the syrup will taste flat. I sometimes add a tiny splash of lemon juice to boost the flavor.
• Simmer slowly. Don’t crank up the heat when making the syrup. Let it bubble gently so the berries break down and get jammy without burning.
• Strain for a smooth latte. I like a bit of pulp, but straining the syrup gives a silkier texture, especially when serving it cold or layering it with espresso.
• Chill the syrup if serving iced. Pouring warm syrup over ice just melts everything and waters it down.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Strawberry Latte

1. Make the Strawberry Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine about 1 cup of chopped strawberries and 2 tablespoons of sugar.

Heat it over medium, stirring occasionally until the strawberries break down and form a syrup—about 8 to 10 minutes. You can mash them gently with a spoon as they soften.

Once it thickens, stir in a few drops of vanilla extract if you like.

2. Strain (if you want it smooth)

If you want a smooth texture with no fruit bits, strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a small bowl or jar.

Press down with the back of a spoon to get every drop.

This part is optional, but I usually strain mine when making an iced version—it just looks and tastes cleaner.

3. Brew the Espresso

Pull one or two shots of espresso using whatever method you normally use—espresso machine, Nespresso pod, or moka pot.

Just make sure it’s strong and fresh. You want the flavor of the espresso to cut through the sweetness of the syrup.

4. Warm and Froth the Milk (if making a hot latte)

If you’re making a hot latte, warm about 1 cup of milk on the stove or in the microwave, then froth it using a milk frother, whisk, or French press.

For an iced latte, keep the milk cold and skip this step.

5. Assemble Your Latte

In a mug or glass, add a few tablespoons of strawberry syrup (around 2–3 tablespoons per drink).

Pour the espresso over the syrup. Then top with steamed milk—or cold milk and ice if making it iced.

Stir gently or leave it layered—it looks so pretty either way.

6. Optional Toppings

Add whipped cream, extra syrup drizzle, or sliced strawberries on top if you’re feeling extra. It makes it look like something straight out of a coffee shop.

Hot vs. Iced Strawberry Latte

I make the iced version more often in spring and summer, but the hot one is surprisingly comforting.

For iced, I layer strawberry syrup, ice, espresso, and then milk.

For hot, I warm the syrup and milk together and froth it before adding the espresso.

Tools That Help

You don’t need a milk frother, but I will say it adds that “coffee shop” feeling. You can use:

• A handheld frother
• A French press (just pump it a few times)
• Or even shake the warm milk in a mason jar

Also, if you have a small mesh strainer, it’s perfect for getting a smooth syrup.

Make a Dairy-Free Strawberry Latte

This recipe is super easy to adapt. I often make it with oat milk, and it tastes amazing. You can also try:

• Oat milk – My favorite for creaminess.
• Almond milk – Lighter and slightly nutty.
• Coconut milk – If you want something extra rich and dessert-like.

Pro tip: Just make sure whatever milk you use is unsweetened, so you can control the overall flavor.

How to Store the Syrup

If you make extra strawberry syrup (which I always do), just store it in a sealed jar in the fridge.

It lasts for about a week, and you can use it for:

• More lattes
• Strawberry cold brew
• Strawberry matcha latte
• Pancakes or waffles
• Yogurt bowls
• Ice cream

Trust me—it won’t go to waste.

Strawberry Latte Fun Add-Ons & Variations

Here are a few ways to make your strawberry latte even more extra:

• Whipped cream – Why not go all in?
• Strawberry puree drizzle on top
• Pink food coloring – Only if your strawberries aren’t giving enough color.
• Matcha – You can swap the espresso for matcha for a strawberry matcha version.
• Brown sugar or maple syrup – If you want a warmer, deeper flavor.

Check out more delicious latte recipes:

• Iced Matcha Latte Recipe (That I Actually Crave Year-Round)
• Delicious & Easy Iced Sugar Cookie Latte Recipe
• 15 Nespresso Latte Recipes You Can Make at Home