If you love warm, cozy coffee drinks that feel like a treat without being too fussy, the salted caramel latte is right up your alley.
Prep Time3 minutesmins
Additional Time2 minutesmins
Total Time5 minutesmins
Type: Drinks
Keyword: Latte Recipes
Servings: 1
Ingredients
¾ cup of whole milk or your preferred milk.
2 shots of espresso or 60 ml strong brewed coffee.
2 tablespoons of caramel sauce.
A pinch of flaky sea salt.
Whipped cream, optional but highly recommended.
Extra caramel for drizzling.
Instructions
Brew your espresso: Fresh espresso has a brightness that cuts through the sweetness of caramel. Pull two shots if you want a balanced drink. If you prefer a sweeter cup, one shot will leave more room for the caramel to shine. If you do not have an espresso machine, a strong moka pot or AeroPress brew works well.
Warm the caramel in your mug: Add the caramel to your mug and heat it for a few seconds in the microwave. Warm caramel melts more evenly and prevents it from settling at the bottom. It also gives the drink a more unified and indulgent flavor.
Steam the milk: Aim for a velvety texture with a thin layer of microfoam. You want milk that feels creamy without turning bubbly. If you do not have a steam wand, warm the milk gently on the stove and whisk until it becomes smooth and slightly airy.
Pour the milk over the caramel: Pour the steamed milk directly into the caramel. This step helps the caramel blend fully rather than sticking to the bottom of the mug. You will see the caramel soften and swirl as it mixes with the milk.
Add the espresso: For a layered look, wait 20 to 30 seconds before pouring in the espresso. If you prefer a consistent flavor throughout the drink, pour it in right away and give the latte a gentle stir.
Add whipped cream: A spoonful of whipped cream melts into the top of the drink and gives you that sweet, pillowy finish that pairs so well with caramel.
Finish with caramel and salt: Drizzle a thin ribbon of caramel on top of the whipped cream and sprinkle the smallest pinch of flaky sea salt. The salt should lift the sweetness, never dominate it.
Notes
To make this recipe more straightforward, you can use salted caramel sauce. If you only have regular caramel sauce, add a pinch of sea salt instead.