Tres Leches Iced Latte

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This iced latte offers the perfect balance of sweet and strong. It’s a coffee shop-quality drink you can easily make at home, with no special equipment needed. The trio of milks adds depth and richness, while the ice keeps it cool and crisp. It’s ideal for hot days, afternoon pick-me-ups, or when you’re craving a sweet twist on your usual iced coffee. Plus, you can easily adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

espresso or strong brewed coffee (cooled)
evaporated milk
sweetened condensed milk
whole milk (or milk of choice)
ice cubes
vanilla extract (optional)
ground cinnamon (optional topping)

Directions

1. Brew the espresso or strong coffee and let it cool slightly.
2. In a glass or small pitcher, mix together evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.
3. Add vanilla extract if using, and stir to combine.
4. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
5. Pour the coffee over the ice, then slowly add the milk mixture.
6. Stir gently to combine, or leave layered for a beautiful presentation.
7. Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon on top if desired and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 large serving or 2 smaller servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Dairy-free version: Use dairy-free alternatives such as coconut evaporated milk, oat milk, and a vegan condensed milk.
• Extra indulgent: Add a splash of heavy cream or whipped cream topping for a dessert-style drink.
• Iced latte float: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat.
• Spiced version: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or cinnamon to the milk mixture.
• Blended version: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frappe-like texture.

Storage/Reheating

This iced latte is best enjoyed fresh.
You can store the milk mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not reheat, as this is meant to be served cold.

FAQs

What are the three milks in a tres leches latte?

They are evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk.

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, just make sure it’s strong to hold up against the sweetness of the milk.

How do I make it less sweet?

Use less sweetened condensed milk or add more whole milk to dilute the sweetness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the milk mixture in advance, but it’s best to add coffee and ice just before serving.

Is this drink caffeinated?

Yes, it contains espresso or coffee. You can use decaf if preferred.

Can I serve this warm?

Yes, simply heat the coffee and milk mixture together and skip the ice for a warm latte version.

What milk alternatives can I use?

You can use almond, oat, or coconut milk. Look for dairy-free versions of evaporated and condensed milk if needed.

Does it taste like tres leches cake?

It captures the creamy, sweet flavor essence of tres leches in drink form, especially with cinnamon and vanilla.

Can I add flavors like caramel or vanilla syrup?

Absolutely. A splash of flavored syrup enhances the dessert-like flavor.

How strong is the coffee flavor?

It’s balanced—strong enough to taste the espresso but mellowed by the richness of the three milks.

Conclusion

Tres Leches Iced Latte is a decadent yet refreshing coffee drink that brings the creamy sweetness of tres leches cake into your cup. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this indulgent, café-style treat at home any time you crave something cool, rich, and deeply satisfying.

Tres Leches Iced Latte

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Tres Leches Iced Latte is a creamy and indulgent iced coffee drink inspired by the flavors of the classic tres leches cake. It blends espresso with a rich trio of milks—evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and whole milk—for a refreshing, sweet, and satisfying latte experience.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 large or 2 small servings
• Category: Beverage, Coffee
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Latin-Inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 shot espresso or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
• 1/4 cup evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup whole milk (or milk of choice)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Ground cinnamon (optional topping)

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Instructions

1. Brew the espresso or strong coffee and let it cool slightly.
2. In a small pitcher or cup, combine evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir to mix well.
3. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
4. Pour the coffee over the ice.
5. Slowly pour the milk mixture over the coffee.
6. Stir gently to combine or leave layered for presentation.
7. Top with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust sweetness by using more or less sweetened condensed milk.
• Use strong coffee or espresso for a bolder flavor.
• Prep the milk mixture in advance and refrigerate for quick assembly.
• Try dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.
• For a dessert twist, top with whipped cream or ice cream.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 glass
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 65mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 20mg