Nowadays, lattes come in so many variations that it can be hard to keep up. But there's one I simply have to discuss with you, my dear readers, and that's the lavender latte recipe. At its most basic, this coffee marries the familiar comfort of espresso and milk with the subtle, floral notes of lavender.
Nowadays, lattes come in so many variations that it can be hard to keep up. But there’s one I simply have to discuss with you, my dear readers, and that’s the lavender latte recipe. At its most basic, this coffee marries the familiar comfort of espresso and milk with the subtle, floral notes of lavender.
What you get is a drink that’s both grounding and ethereal. In fact, these lattes offer coffee lovers a unique way to switch things up for their daily coffee ritual.
Ready to explore this curious coffee? Let’s see why this aromatic brew is capturing hearts (and taste buds) worldwide.
Table of Contents
- Overview
- Lavender LatteTaste
- Lavender for Lattes
- Flavoring Lavender Syrup Coffee CreamerLavender Powder
- BasicsIngredientsEquipmentMethodPro Tips
- Recipe IdeasHoney Lavender LatteLavender Matcha LatteLavender Iced CoffeeVanilla Lavender LatteLavender Espresso MartiniLavender Shaken EspressoLondon Fog Lavender Latte
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
Overview: What Is a Lavender Latte?
A lavender latte is a harmonious blend of espresso coffee, milk and lavender syrup (dried lavender buds, sugar and water). This floral syrup gives the drink its distinctive character.
Now, the exact origins of this creative coffee creation aren’t well documented. However, it became popular during the botanical coffee trend of the late 2010s. This trend emerged just before the fourth-wave coffee movement. Back then, baristas loved experimenting by adding unexpected flavors into traditional espresso drinks.
What’s in a Lavender Latte?
A classic lavender latte recipe has a foundation of carefully crafted layers. Each contributes to its unique character. First, you have 1-2 shots of espresso. Then comes lavender syrup (1-2 pumps) and lastly, steamed milk with a silky microfoam.
The majority of specialty coffee shops now craft house-made lavender syrups, serving this drink hot and cold. They also offer delicious flavor combinations like lavender with vanilla, honey, lemon and matcha.
What Does a Lavender Latte Taste Like?
A well-made lavender latte is an intriguing taste and aroma experience. The first sip introduces the drink’s complexity – bold, slightly bitter espresso softened by sweet, creamy, milk. Then comes the lavender: subtle, floral, herbal.
The experience is super smooth and calming. What’s more, the lavender adds a curious aromatic dimension.
Lavender for Lattes: English Lavender vs French Lavender vs Spanish Lavender
The type of lavender you use will impact your coffee’s taste. The first, English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is what many call “true lavender.” It has the sweetest, most delicate fragrance, making it the preferred choice for coffee. Its subtle floral notes blend beautifully without overwhelming the palate.
French Lavender (Lavandula dentata) has a more potent, pungent rosemary-like aroma. It’s beautiful in gardens and excellent for perfumes, but less suitable for coffee.
Spanish Lavender (Lavandula stoechas) boasts distinctive pinecone-shaped flowers topped with purple bracts. It has the most potent, camphor-like scent of the three. Crucially, its eucalyptus-like flavor makes it more suited for aromatherapy and ornamental gardens.
Lavender Flavoring for Coffee
The type of lavender flavoring you use will also influence how your coffee tastes. In essence there are three types:
Lavender Syrup for Coffee
Lavender syrup, made by infusing lavender buds in simple syrup, delivers a well-balanced, floral sweetness. In a lavender latte, it adds a smooth, aromatic quality. 1-2 pumps are all you need for a 12-ounce (354-milliliter) latte.
Lavender Coffee Creamer
This flavoring is, in effect, a milk or cream-based product infused with lavender. It provides both creaminess and floral notes. In a lavender latte recipe, it also adds a richer, more mellow taste.
Lavender Powder for Coffee
Made from dried, ground food-grade lavender buds, lavender powder gives the most intense lavender flavor . It also imparts a slight grainy texture. A tiny amount (1/8-1/4 teaspoon) in lattes adds distinct floral notes and a light purple hue. The downside is it can leave a powdery residue at the bottom of the cup.
The Basics: How to Make a Lavender Latte
Now for the nitty gritty: how to make a lavender latte at home. This lavender latte recipe is simple. Already know how to make a latte? The process is similar but with a slight twist.
Ingredients
For the lavender syrup (1 cup):
1 cup filtered water
1 cup granulated or caster sugar
2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender buds (preferably English lavender)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Dried lavender buds (optional for garnish)
For each latte:
2 shots of espresso or 4 ounces of strong French press or moka pot coffee
8-10 ounces (230-285 milliliters) whole milk (or use a non-dairy milk)
1-2 tablespoons lavender syrup or 1-2 pumps store-bought syrup (adjust to taste)
Equipment
Your best espresso machine, moka pot or French press
Small heavy-bottomed saucepan
Fine-mesh strainer
Milk frother or small hand-held whisk
Glass jar with lid (for storing the lavender syrup)
Coffee mug
Digital kitchen scale (optional but recommended)
Measuring cups and spoons
Method
First, make the lavender syrup. Combine 1 cup of water with 1 cup of sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture starts to simmer.
Add lavender buds and reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Next, remove the syrup from the heat and let it steep at room temperature for 15 minutes. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a glass jar and add vanilla extract (if using).
Cool the syrup completely before storing it in the refrigerator (it can keep for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container).
Now, for the espresso. Preheat your serving mug by pouring in hot water. Let it sit for a second or two before emptying.
Froth milk in a pitcher until steaming at 150-155 degrees Fahrenheit (65-68 degrees Celsius).
The volume should almost double, and the milk should have a velvety texture. Tap the pitcher on a hard surface to settle any large bubbles and set aside.
Then, prepare espresso or strong coffee and pour it into your serving mug. Add lavender syrup (creamer/powder) and stir to combine.
Slowly pour the frothed milk into the coffee at a 45-degree angle, holding back the foam with a spoon.
Finish by spooning a thin foam layer on top and garnish with a sprinkle of dried lavender buds (optional).
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips
Start with less syrup and gradually add more to taste, as lavender can quickly overpower a drink.
For an iced version, shake cold milk in a cocktail shaker instead of frothing.
If your lavender syrup crystallizes, gently reheat it with a splash of water.
If the taste is too strong, dilute it with some simple syrup.
Coffeeness Signature Espresso Blend
High-quality beans through direct trade
Notes of Chocolate & Hazelnut
Easy on the stomach
Freshly roasted right in Brooklyn
Medium roast
Lavender Latte Recipe Ideas
Lavender lattes have become a sophisticated twist on traditional coffee and tea beverages. Many variations exist, each bringing out lavender’s delicate flavors beautifully. Here are some of my favorites:
Honey Lavender Latte Recipe
This blend marries the delicate floral notes of lavender with the natural sweetness of honey. The espresso provides a rich foundation and steamed milk, a creamy texture. The honey’s warmth also balances the lavender’s botanical character. All this results in a soothing and luxurious drink.
Lavender Matcha Latte Recipe
East meets West with this fusion drink. Grassy, umami-rich Japanese matcha meets ethereal, floral lavender, creating a one-of-a-kind taste. Matcha also provides a complex base with subtle vegetal notes. Crucially, lavender adds an aromatic layer. All these heightened flavors elevate the drink beyond a traditional matcha latte.
Lavender Iced Coffee Recipe
This is a refreshing summer beverage that starts off with either flash brew coffee or cold-brew. The cold preparation method guarantees a smoother, less acidic coffee. Lavender syrup provides much needed sweetness. Vanilla and creamy milk deliver a smooth and comforting finish.
Vanilla Lavender Latte
This indulgent combination combines robust espresso, sweet vanilla and aromatic lavender. Vanilla acts as a bridge between the coffee and lavender, softening the sharp edges. The result is a well-rounded drink that’s both familiar and novel.
Lavender Espresso Martini
This sophisticated cocktail elevates the classic espresso martini recipe with a botanical twist. Fresh espresso provides caffeine and a rich coffee flavor. Meanwhile, premium vodka and Kahlua add complexity and alcoholic warmth. Adding lavender syrup brings an unexpected floral note. It also helps this coffee cocktail develop a characteristic frothy top when shaken with ice. The perfect aperitif or brunch drink!
Lavender Shaken Espresso
To make this modern take on iced coffee, shake fresh espresso shots with lavender syrup and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shaking not only chills the espresso but also creates a fun bubbly texture. Then, a splash of cold milk at the end creates beautiful layers. It’s a refreshing but potent drink with perfectly balanced flavors!
London Fog Lavender Latte
This elegant take on a lavender latte recipe starts with Earl Grey tea containing bergamot oil. These florals create a sophisticated profile reminiscent of an English garden. Steamed milk adds richness and helps to carry the aromatic compounds. In addition, a touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors. All in all it’s perfect as a caffeine-light alternative or lighter fall coffee drink.
Final Thoughts
A lavender latte is the ultimate beverage if you want a calming, aromatic coffee experience. The delicate floral notes dance with rich espresso, creating a harmonious balance that both soothes and energizes.
What makes lavender lattes special is their versatility. Want a calming morning ritual? Check. An afternoon pick-me-up? Double check! A unique drink to serve at your next brunch gathering? This lavender latte recipe delivers.
Best of all, by crafting these lattes at home, you get to control their intensity. Plus, your home will smell amazing! Now, what could possibly be bad about that?
Have you tried making lavender lattes at home? I’d love to hear about your experiences, so please leave your comments below!
Lavender Latte FAQ
A lavender latte is made of espresso, steamed milk and lavender syrup.
Vanilla and honey complement lavender well in coffee drinks.
The seasonal Starbucks lavender latte contains espresso, oat milk and lavender syrup.
A lavender latte can be relatively healthy if made with natural lavender flavoring and zero to little sugar. Lavender itself has calming, sleep-inducing properties. But keep a watch out; steer clear of sugar-laden commercial syrups in favor of natural alternatives.
