When the weather turns cold and gloomy isn’t it important to take comfort in familiar things? I know nothing warms and comforts me more than sitting in a cosy chair looking out at an approaching storm. But the essential extra ingredient I need is a cinnamon latte. So read on for my so-easy and so-good cinnamon latte recipe.
What is cinnamon
If I was to suggest grating the bark of a tree into your morning coffee, you’d have every right to be suspicious. But that’s exactly what cinnamon is. It’s been used for centuries as both an aromatic spice and a medicinal herb. Imagine Christmas cake (and candles) and lattes without cinnamon? Not so good.
Who doesn’t love the great taste of a cinnamon latte? This delicious drink is perfect for those chilly mornings or evenings. Plus, cinnamon has some amazing health benefits that you can enjoy while sipping on your latte. So what are you waiting for? Try this recipe today!
What is a cinnamon latte
You only need 3 ingredients to make a cinnamon latte and you probably already have access to all of them:
- espresso, or a short strong coffee
- cinnamon powder
- milk
Cinnamon lattes can be enjoyed at any time of year, but I enjoy them most in the colder months. If you’re looking for a way to warm up on a chilly day, my cinnamon latte recipe is just what you need!
Best coffee beans for cinnamon latte
I like to use beans that have a robust flavor but won’t overpower the milk and cinnamon.
- Lavazza Tierra Intenso: This espresso is made from only 100% organic Arabica beans grown in Africa and South America. it’s got flavor and aromas of dried fruit and chocolate. Just add cinnamon and steamed milk!
- Illy Classico Espresso Roast: A classic espresso blend using nine different Arabica varieties sourced from around the world, this espresso offers an intense aroma and robust body that stands up well to steamed milk in lattes or cappuccinos without being overpowering.
- Kicking Horse Coffee Smart Ass Medium/Dark Roast Whole Bean Coffee: When I’m feeling more adventurous, this blend has great flavor notes of berries, brown sugar and chocolate. Imagine that with cinnamon on top and you will be placing an order before finishing this post!
Brewing coffee for cinnamon latte
Brewing espresso without an espresso machine may seem daunting, but with a little practice, it can be quite easy. In fact, all you need is a coffee maker. So, for example, if you have a stovetop Moka pot and a few simple tools. Here are the steps to follow:
- Fill the pot with about two inches of water and place it on the stove over medium heat
- Place the coffee grounds in the portafilter and tamp them down firmly
- Put the portafilter in the pot and assemble the pot.
- Put onto the stove on medium heat and wait for the water to start bubbling through the coffee.
- You may need to adjust the heat to stop the process from going too fast – you are aiming for a gentle gurgle of coffee.
- Once there is enough coffee in the top chamber, remove the moka pot from the heat and leave it to stand for a couple of minutes. That lets the brewing process naturally complete.
Not got a moka pot?
No problem, there are so many ways to make espresso without a machine that I wrote a post about it. So check out How to make espresso without a machine. I take you through how to make an espresso using whatever tools you have available. And even with just a couple of empty jars with lids!
How to make a cinnamon latte at home
There are just a few simple steps to follow to make great-tasting cinnamon latte at home. I really recommend you check you have everything you need before starting. Yes, I’ve made that mistake and its doubly embarrassing when you’ve just promised lattes to friends and family!
Equipment
- Coffee maker / espresso machine
- Jug
- Blender/Steamer
- glass/mug
- spoon
Ingredients
You really can make a great cinnamon latte with just 3 ingredients. But I’ve added some optional ones that will take your latte from great to unforgettable!
- 1-2 shots espresso
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder
- 1-2 tsp sugar (optional)
- 4 tsp whipped cream (optional)
- dusting chocolate powder (optional)
Method
Step-by-step instructions
- Brew a shot of espresso with the coffee maker you have available. It’s not a problem if you don’t have an espresso machine, check out How to make espresso without a machine.
- While the espresso is brewing, heat the milk.
- Add the cinnamon to the milk.
- Froth the heated milk with the tools you have available.
- Pour the espresso into a latte glass or an 8-ounce coffee mug.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar to the espresso and stir (optional).
- Slowly pour the heated milk into the mug, holding back the foam to layer on top. If you are feeling brave, try your hand at some latte art. Remember, practice makes perfect.
- For some added luxury, heap some whipped cream over the foamed milk, and dust with chocolate powder(optional).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Top tips
- If you have an espresso machine or coffee maker brew 1-2 shots of espresso. Otherwise, you can simply make a 1/2 cup of strong coffee, you can use whatever milk you prefer. Check out all the ways to make an espresso without a machine.
- If I am using dairy milk, I normally go for whole milk or 2% because both foam well and taste good. 1% and skim milk still foam but their lighter flavour will be overpowered by the cinnamon and espresso. Check out my review of the Best dairy milks for lattes.
- If I feel like non-dairy, my first choice is always oat milk. It’s creamy, foams easily and tastes so good with the cinnamon and coffee. Check out my review of the Best non-dairy milks for lattes.
- Sugar (or other sweeteners) is not essential, but helps to bring out the flavors of the milk and espresso. Even if you don’t normally have it in your coffee, it works well in lattes.
- Whipped cream topping. This is totally indulgent but brings the wow factor. When I’m trying to impress friends and family, it makes a bold statement – for very little effort.
- Dusting of chocolate powder, again it’s decorative but really finishes the look of your latte. You can sprinkle it direct on the foamed milk or the whipped cream if you are going for the full monty!
Different types of latte
Once you’ve enjoyed my cinnamon latte recipe, check out some of these great latte recipes:
- Spanish latte – the complete opposite of a cinnamon latte. The Spanish latte is all about energy and strength. Got a big meeting or event you need all your energy for? Then start your preparation with a Spanish latte. You’ll be ready for the world!
- Iced caramel latte – too hot and bothered for the world, unwind with an iced caramel latte.
- Hazelnut latte – If you love hazelnuts, you won’t want to miss out in this nutty and relaxing latte.
- Honey latte – another great way to unwind on a relaxing afternoon, or any time!
FAQs
What is a cinnamon latte?
This delicious coffee is made with espresso, steamed milk, and aromatic ground cinnamon. It’s creamy, comforting, and irresistible.
What are the ingredients in a cinnamon latte?
The joy of cinnamon lattes is that you probably already have everything you need in your kitchen cupboards.
All you need is: espresso (or a short strong coffee), ground cinnamon, and milk.
Are cinnamon lattes healthy?
Cinnamon has been known to have health benefits for centuries, ranging from reducing blood sugar to improving cholesterol levels.
– How many calories are in a cinnamon latte?
Cinnamon latte: creamy, comforting, and irresistible
Equipment
- 1 coffee maker or espresso machine
- 1 jug
- 1 blender or frother
- 1 Latte glass or mug
- 1 long spoon
Ingredients
- 1-2 shots espresso
- ¾ cup milk
- 1-2 tsp sugar (optional)
- 4 tsp whipped cream (optional)
- ½ tsp chocolate powder (optional)
Instructions
- Brew a shot of espresso with whatever coffee maker you have available.
- While the espresso is brewing, heat the milk. Aim for 140-155°F (60-68°C)
- Add the cinnamon to the milk, and any sugar or other sweetener, and stir.
- Froth the heated milk with the tools you have available.
- Pour the espresso into a latte glass or an 8-ounce coffee mug.
- Slowly pour the heated milk into the mug, holding back the foam to layer on top.
- For some added luxury, heap some whipped cream over the foamed milk, and dust with chocolate powder(optional).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Top tips
- If you have an espresso machine or coffee maker brew 1-2 shots of espresso. Otherwise, you can simply make a 1/2 cup of strong coffee, you can use whatever milk you prefer. Check out all the ways to make an espresso without a machine.
- If I am using dairy milk, I normally go for whole milk or 2% because both foam well and taste good. 1% and skim milk still foam but their lighter flavour will be overpowered by the cinnamon and espresso. Check out my review of the Best dairy milks for lattes.
- If I feel like non-dairy, my first choice is always oat milk. It’s creamy, foams easily and tastes so good with the cinnamon and coffee. Check out my review of the Best non-dairy milks for lattes.
- Sugar (or other sweeteners) is not essential, but helps to bring out the flavors of the milk and espresso. Even if you don’t normally have it in your coffee, it works well in lattes.
- Whipped cream topping. This is totally indulgent but brings the wow factor. When I’m trying to impress friends and family, it makes a bold statement – for very little effort.
- Dusting of chocolate powder, again it’s decorative but really finishes the look of your latte. You can sprinkle it direct on the foamed milk or the whipped cream if you are going for the full monty!
Nutrition
Nutritional Disclaimer
All nutritional information is an estimate only, based on third-party calculations derived from an online nutritional calculator, Spoonacular API. The data provided is a courtesy and should not be considered a guarantee or fact. Each recipe and nutritional value will vary depending on the ingredients and brands you use, your measuring methods and portion sizes. For accurate results, we recommend that you calculate the nutritional information yourself, using a preferred nutritional calculator or advice from a nutritionist, based on your ingredients and individual processes.
Hi, I’m Eric Loftuss, co-founder of Bean Thirst with my wife Sophie.
My Coffee journey started young. I used to help my mom with the weekly shopping trip and we always called in to a coffee wholesaler and retail outlet in our town.
I really started to learn about coffee when, while in college, I worked in a local coffee shop and trained as a barista. Even though I went on to qualify and work as a lawyer, I still get a kick out of brewing a cup of Joe.
Sophie and I are so glad to be part of your coffee journey. Find out more about us