Sugar Cookie Latte

This Sugar Cookie Latte tastes like a cozy holiday cookie in a mug. It has a sweet, homemade syrup with vanilla, almond, and a hint of butter, giving it a nostalgic sugar cookie flavor. Warm, frothy milk and a shot of espresso bring everything together, and the whipped cream with sprinkles makes it feel like a little festive treat.

Ingredients

The full printable recipe card with measurements and instructions is found at the bottom of the post.

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• Sugar: Use regular granulated sugar so the syrup dissolves quickly and evenly.
• Water: Warm water helps the sugars melt faster and keeps the syrup from crystallizing.
• Brown sugar: Light brown sugar gives the best flavor. Pack it firmly so you get the right amount.
• Vanilla extract: If you have clear vanilla, it keeps the syrup lighter in color, but any vanilla works. I prefer pure vanilla extract.
• Almond extract: Start with the listed amount and taste the syrup. Almond extract is strong, so add more only if you love that flavor.
• Butter extract: If you can find it, use it. It makes a huge difference to add extra flavor. I like this brand.
• Milk: You can use your milk of choice. For the creamiest latte, use whole milk. If you go dairy-free, oat milk froths the best.
• Espresso or strong coffee: Freshly brewed espresso gives the boldest flavor, but very strong coffee is a good backup if you don’t have an espresso machine.
• Whipped cream: A quick shortcut is canned whipped cream. It melts beautifully into the latte. Cool Whip will hold its shape much better, though.
• Festive sprinkles: Use whatever colors are your preference.

How to Make a Sugar Cookie Latte

• Step One: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, brown sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract and butter extract. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.
• Step Two: Add the milk to the pan and whisk until warmed through and frothy (do not let it boil).
• Step Three: Divide the espresso between two mugs. Pour the milk over the coffee, stirring gently to combine.
• Step Four: Top each latte with whipped cream and festive sprinkles. Serve immediately.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it iced: Let the sugar cookie syrup cool completely, then pour it over cold milk and iced espresso. It tastes just like the seasonal iced version you’d get at a café.
• Use a different milk: This recipe works with pretty much any milk you have on hand. Oat milk gives the best froth for a dairy-free option, while whole milk makes the latte extra creamy.
• Swap the extracts: If you don’t have butter extract, you can leave it out. If almond extract isn’t your favorite, reduce it or skip it for a more classic vanilla latte.
• Add a little spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg gives the drink a warm holiday twist without overpowering the sugar cookie flavor.
• Choose your coffee base: Use espresso for the strongest coffee flavor, but very strong brewed coffee works well if that’s what you have. You can also try cold brew for an iced version.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: The sugar cookie syrup can be kept in a sealed jar on the counter for up to a day, but for the best flavor and freshness, refrigerate it.
• Refrigerator: Store the syrup in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Give it a quick shake before using since the extracts may settle. Prepared lattes don’t store well, so make those fresh.
• Freezer: You can freeze the syrup in small portions for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge and warm slightly before adding it to your latte.
• Make Ahead: Make the syrup a few days in advance and keep it chilled. When you’re ready for a latte, all you’ll need to do is brew the coffee and warm the milk.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Watch the heat on the syrup: Keep it at medium heat so the sugars melt smoothly without burning or turning grainy.
• Taste as you go: Almond and butter extracts are strong. Start with the listed amounts, then adjust the flavor to your liking once the syrup is finished.
• Use hot espresso: Freshly brewed espresso shots blend better with the warm milk and keeps the latte piping hot.
• Layer the toppings: Add the whipped cream right before serving so it stays fluffy and doesn’t melt into the latte too quickly.
• Serving idea: Pair this latte with sugar cookies, shortbread or any simple holiday treat for a cozy coffee break.

Latte Recipes

• Gingerbread Latte
• Mocha Latte
• Slow Cooker Chai Latte
• Maple Latte

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