Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s simple to prepare yet tastes like a specialty café drink. The fragrant cardamom adds a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with espresso and steamed milk. I also like that I can easily adjust the sweetness and spice level to match my preferences.

Ingredients

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

2 shots espresso
1 cup milk of choice
1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ground cardamom or cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

Directions

I brew the espresso and pour it into my favorite mug.
I heat the milk in a small saucepan or with a milk steamer until it’s hot but not boiling.
I whisk the ground cardamom and brown sugar into the warm milk until fully dissolved.
If I’m using vanilla extract, I stir it into the milk.
I froth the milk until it’s light and creamy.
I pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam before spooning it on top.
I sprinkle a little ground cardamom or cinnamon over the foam for extra flavor and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

I use oat milk for a naturally creamy dairy-free version.
I sweeten the latte with maple syrup instead of brown sugar or honey.
I add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a chai-inspired flavor.
I make it iced by cooling the espresso and pouring it over ice with cold milk.
I use decaf espresso when I want a relaxing evening drink.

Storage/Reheating

I enjoy this latte immediately after making it for the best flavor and texture. If I have leftover brewed espresso, I store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I reheat the milk gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before combining it with fresh or chilled espresso. I avoid boiling the milk to keep it smooth and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use whole cardamom pods instead of ground cardamom?

I can lightly crush 2–3 cardamom pods and steep them in the warm milk for a few minutes before straining them out. This creates a fresh and aromatic flavor.

What type of milk works best?

I enjoy using whole milk for a rich, creamy texture, but almond, oat, soy, or any favorite milk also works well.

Can I make this latte without an espresso machine?

I often use strong brewed coffee or a moka pot when I don’t have access to an espresso machine.

Is cardamom good with coffee?

I think cardamom pairs wonderfully with coffee because its warm, citrusy, and slightly floral flavor complements the rich bitterness of espresso.

Can I make this latte less sweet?

I simply reduce the amount of sweetener or leave it out altogether if I prefer a more robust coffee flavor.

Conclusion

I always enjoy making this cardamom latte because it’s an easy way to bring warm, fragrant spices into my daily coffee routine. The combination of bold espresso, creamy milk, and aromatic cardamom creates a comforting drink that feels both elegant and satisfying, whether I enjoy it hot or iced.

Cardamom Latte

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A warm and aromatic cardamom latte made with bold espresso, creamy steamed milk, and fragrant cardamom. This cozy café-style drink is lightly spiced, perfectly sweetened, and ideal for mornings or relaxing afternoons.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Category: Beverage
Method: Steaming
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 shots espresso
1 cup milk of choice
1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Ground cardamom or cinnamon, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Brew the espresso and pour it into a serving mug.
Heat the milk in a small saucepan or with a milk steamer until hot but not boiling.
Whisk the ground cardamom and brown sugar or honey into the warm milk until fully dissolved.
Stir in the vanilla extract, if using.
Froth the milk until light and creamy.
Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam, then spoon the foam on top.
Garnish with a sprinkle of ground cardamom or cinnamon and serve immediately.

Notes

Steep 2–3 lightly crushed cardamom pods in the warm milk for a fresher spice flavor, then strain before frothing.
Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, while oat, almond, or soy milk work well for dairy-free options.
Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar or honey for a different sweetness profile.
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a chai-inspired variation.
For an iced version, cool the espresso and pour it over ice with cold milk.
Use decaf espresso for an evening-friendly drink.
Store leftover brewed espresso in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and prepare fresh steamed milk when serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 latte
Calories: 170 kcal
Sugar: 14 g
Sodium: 105 mg
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg