This Caramel Latte is a cozy homemade version of the Starbucks classic — made with espresso, steamed milk, and caramel syrup. It’s quick, affordable, and way easier than it looks. Great for slow mornings, work breaks, or whenever you want something warm that doesn’t ask for much.
Jump to RecipeQuick Summary
- Prep time: 5 mins
- Cook time: 0
- Flavor: smooth, lightly sweet, creamy
- Great for: chill mornings, rainy afternoons, quick coffee fixes
Why I Like This Recipe
Didn’t feel like going anywhere. Just wanted something warm and good. Made this with what I had and ended up loving it — no milk frother, no fancy machine, still solid.
Ingredients
- 4 oz espresso or strong brewed coffee
- 2½ tbsp caramel syrup
- 4 oz milk (any kind)
- 2 tbsp whipped cream (optional)
- Extra caramel for drizzle (also optional but nice)
How To Make Caramel Latte
- Brew your espresso: Make it fresh — or use strong drip coffee if that’s all you’ve got.
- Add the syrup: Pour the caramel syrup into your mug first, then stir in the hot coffee. It melts better that way.
- Warm the milk: Heat on the stove or microwave just until warm. Froth if you want — or just whisk a little.
- Combine everything: Pour the milk into your coffee mix. Stir gently.
- Top it off: Add whipped cream if you’re using it. Drizzle with more caramel. That’s it.

Tips for Success
- Use real caramel syrup (not pancake syrup)
- Don’t overheat your milk — warm, not boiling
- Preheat your mug if you’re drinking slow
- Salted caramel syrup works too — adds a little something extra
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftover coffee-milk mixture in a sealed jar for 1 day.
- Reheat: Low heat on the stove. Don’t let it boil — just warm and stir.
- Freezer: Wouldn’t. Fresh is better for this one.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant coffee?
Yeah — just make it strong and hot. It’ll still work. - Do I need a frother?
Nope. You can just whisk the milk or shake it in a jar (careful, it’s hot). - What’s the best milk for lattes?
Whole milk froths best. Oat milk is also great. Almond milk works but gets thin. - How sweet is it?
Pretty sweet. You can cut the syrup a bit if you want something milder. - Can I use caramel sauce instead of syrup?
You can, but it’s thicker and doesn’t mix as well. Syrup melts in smoother.
Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them
- Pouring milk in too fast: Can splash or curdle if your coffee’s super hot. Go slow.
- Using too much caramel: It’s easy to overdo it. Start with 2 tbsp and taste.
- Overheating milk: If it boils, it gets weird and foamy in a bad way.
- Not stirring well enough: Syrup sinks. Give it a proper mix.
- Forgetting the preheat: Cold mugs = sad lattes. Warm it up if you’ve got time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 229 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Potassium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 6g
You Might Also Like:
- Cinnamon Dolce Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
- Smoked Butterscotch Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
- Iced Sugar Cookie Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
- Iced Matcha Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
Caramel Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
Course: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Baking1
servings5
minutes229
kcalThis cold caramel frappuccino blends chilled coffee, milk, and syrup into a smooth, creamy drink — topped with whipped cream and extra drizzle for a cozy at-home treat.
Ingredients
1 cup brewed cold coffee
1 cup milk
2 tbsp caramel syrup
1–2 cups ice
2 tbsp whipped cream
1 tbsp caramel sauce
Directions
- Brew strong coffee, chill it.
- Blend coffee, milk, syrup, and ice until smooth.
- Drizzle caramel inside a glass.
- Pour in drink, top with whipped cream and more caramel.
- Serve right away.
Notes
- Add vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist
- More ice = thicker consistency
- Works great with oat milk or vanilla almond milk
- Keep syrups stocked — makes it easier next time