Recipe

How to Make a Gingerbread Latte, According to a Starbucks Barista

By Morgan Nielsen at Florida Atlantic University

Thanksgiving is officially over, which means we can finally stop feeling pseudo-guilty about guzzling down Caramel Brulee, Gingerbread, and Chestnut Praline lattes at every given opportunity. These little cups of Christmas can get a little pricey, especially if you're customizing your holiday orders. Try your hand at this gingerbread latte recipe if you want to save some cash without compromising taste.

Gingerbread Latte

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Servings: 1

Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ounces espresso
8 ounces milk
Whipped cream optional
1/2 teaspoon numeg

Morgan Nielsen

Step 1

Combine sugar, water, vanilla, cinnamon, and ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat until the sugar is thoroughly dissolved, then remove from heat and let cool.

Morgan Nielsen

Step 2

Pour two tablespoons of this gingerbread syrup into the bottom of a cup or glass.

Step 3

Add two shots of espresso on top of the syrup. I use the Verismo system by Starbucks because it's priced similarly to a Keurig (but it can be even less if it's on sale, which is often is) but can also make some solid espresso.

If you don't have an espresso machine, use 4-6 ounces (depending on how strong you want it) of strongly brewed regular coffee.

Morgan Nielsen

Step 4

Add the milk of your choice on top of the espresso or coffee.

Morgan Nielsen

Step 5

Top with whipped cream and ground nutmeg, and enjoy!

Morgan Nielsen

Even though we haven't quite cracked the Caramel Brulee or Chestnut Praline recipes, Gingerbread is a pretty classic flavor that can be easy to imitate.

Next time you're craving a cup of holiday cheer but not quite craving waiting in line to pay an arm and a leg for your holiday fix, whip up a batch of gingerbread syrup that will keep you festive all month long.