Coconut Milk Latte Recipe

This Starbucks Copycat Coconut Milk Latte is simple to make with just 3 simple ingredients and ready in 10 minutes! My personal favorite way to start the day with the perfect amount of added sweetness!

Searching for even more ways to play barista at home? I’ve got you! Try my easy chai latte, butterbeer latte recipe, and my snickerdoodle latte for more fun flavor variations!

hand holding an off white speckled mug that is filled with a latte topped with toasted coconut pieces

Why You’ll Love This Latte Recipe

Minimal Ingredients: This latte takes only THREE ingredients.
No Special Equipment: While this is best with espresso, you can also use strong coffee. I will also teach you how to froth milk with a mason jar!
Dairy-Free and Plant Based Recipe: Total accident but awesomely delicious.

This is my all-time favorite coffee recipe. I can honestly say that I have made this over 100 times since I originally posted back in 2021, and it is still just as tasty as the first time! It can be made with espresso or strong brewed coffee and takes just minutes to prepare. You don’t even need any special ingredients!

I should also mention this is an accidentally plant based/dairy-free coffee recipe, which means everyone can enjoy a cup! Even if you don’t have a dietary restriction, you are guaranteed to fall in love with latte.

can of thai kitchen unsweetened coconut milk laying on a concrete colored backdrop

Ingredients You’ll Need

I’m going out on a limb and saying this is the best coconut milk latte. While I am going to include the EXACT way to make yours taste like the Starbucks classic, I will also give you a few tips on how to level up. Here is what you need to get started

Coffee or Espresso: Starbucks uses Blonde Espresso Roast in their coconut milk latte. I found that any espresso, or strongly brewed coffee, will work for a homemade version.
Coconut Milk: You will want to use a full-fat canned coconut milk. This will get you a lovely froth and rich creamy flavor.
Cinnamon: This is an optional ingredient, but a delicious addition.
Sweetener: I’ve always used either brown sugar or pure maple syrup. However, it was recently pointed out that honey is a great substitution.
Vanilla extract: Just a touch to balance the flavors.

For a more authentic Starbucks flavor- Skip the cinnamon and vanilla. OR for a flavor explosion coconut vanilla latte recipe– Add them in!

Jesseca’s Recipe Review

This latte is my go-to when I want something cozy without leaving the house (or changing out of pajamas). It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and has that just right hint of coconut that makes it feel a little extra special. Bonus points for how easy it is to whip up—zero barista training required.

Tip from Jesseca:

For the dreamiest froth, use full-fat coconut milk and give it a good blend with a milk frother or immersion blender right before pouring. It makes all the difference.

Substitutions and Variations

This latte is super flexible—tweak it to match your mood or what you’ve got on hand.

Milk: Swap coconut milk with oat, almond, or whole milk.
Sweetener: Use honey, agave, maple syrup, or skip it entirely.
Flavored syrup: Add a splash of caramel, hazelnut, or vanilla syrup.
Iced version: Chill espresso and pour over ice, then top with cold frothed milk.
Blended: Blend all ingredients with ice for a frappe-style drink.
Flavor twist: Add cocoa powder for a mocha vibe or a pinch of cardamom/nutmeg for warmth.

Quick, easy swaps = endless ways to make it your own!

off white speckled short mug filled with espresso and coconut milk being poured in with a mason jar

How To Make A Coconut Milk Latte At Home

Ready to learn how easy this recipe is? Let’s dive into how you can make a latte at home with a mason jar.

PREP: Prepare your coffee or two shots of espresso. Divide between two mugs.
MILK: Combine the coconut milk with the cinnamon and vanilla, if using, and 1 teaspoon brown sugar in a tall cup or jar.
WHIP: Heat in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, or until it has warmed. Use a handheld frother to whisk the milk until foamy, about 20 seconds.
ENJOY: Pour or spoon the milk over the top of your espresso and enjoy.

How To Froth Milk In A Mason Jar

MEASURE: Add milk to a mason jar. Fill it only half full to make sure you have a lot of room for froth to build. Add any sweetener or spices you like.
SHAKE: Secure the lid and shake that jar as hard as you can for one full minute.
HEAT: Remove the lid and microwave for 30 seconds. This helps bring the foam to the top and stabilize it.
ENJOY: Pour the milk into your coffee and spoon the foam on top.

mason jar with a lid laying on a concrete color backdrop filled with coconut milk

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

This coconut milk latte is best enjoyed fresh, but you can get a little head start if you’re planning ahead.

Make-ahead:

Brew the coffee or espresso and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Shake up the coconut milk mixture (with any added sweeteners and spices) and keep it chilled in a sealed jar for up to 4 days. Just give it another good shake before using.

To reheat:

Warm the coffee and milk mixture separately, then combine.
For best froth results, reheat the coconut milk and give it a quick blend or froth before pouring it over the coffee.

Not freezer friendly—coconut milk can separate and get grainy when frozen and thawed, so stick with fridge storage for the smoothest sip.

Expert Tips

Use full-fat canned coconut milk for a creamy, frothy finish. Light versions or boxed milk won’t froth as well and can taste watery.
Warm the coconut milk slightly before shaking if your kitchen is chilly—canned coconut milk can separate and clump when cold.
Want extra froth? Use a handheld milk frother or immersion blender instead of shaking the jar. It gives that velvety coffee shop texture.
Don’t skip the vanilla—even a dash adds depth and brings out the natural sweetness of coconut.
Maple syrup gives a subtle caramel vibe that pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of coconut and cinnamon.
Make it iced: Brew your coffee strong and chill it, then pour over ice and top with shaken coconut milk.
Use a clear glass mug if you’re feeling fancy—the layers look gorgeous and totally Instagram-worthy.

Recipe FAQs

What is cascara sugar?

If you browse the menu at Starbucks you’ll notice that their latte uses cascara sugar. Cascara has a dark brown sugar and maple flavor. Since cascara isn’t widely available where I live I substitute it with brown sugar or pure maple syrup.

Can I use any type of coconut milk for the latte?

Canned coconut milk tends to be thicker and richer in texture, making it ideal for creating a creamy and indulgent latte. It typically contains higher fat content and is commonly used in recipes that require a thicker consistency.
Ultimately, the type of coconut milk you choose for your latte depends on the desired texture, richness, and flavor profile you’re aiming for. Experimenting with different options can help you discover your perfect coconut milk latte combination.

Can I substitute coconut milk with another non-dairy milk?

Yes, you can absolutely substitute coconut milk with other non-dairy milk options in your latte. Try almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or even cashew milk.
Remember to consider the flavor and texture of the non-dairy milk you choose to ensure it aligns well with the coffee and your personal preferences. It may take some experimentation to find the perfect substitute that matches your desired taste and latte experience.

Is it possible to make a hot and iced version of a coconut milk latte?

Yep! For an iced version of this drink:
Brew a strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
In a separate container, mix your desired amount of coconut milk and sweetener, if desired.
Pour the cooled coffee or espresso over the ice cubes.
Slowly pour the coconut milk mixture over the coffee.
Give it a stir to combine the flavors.
Optionally, you can add additional ice cubes or even a splash of cold water to dilute the coffee if needed.
Sip and enjoy your refreshing iced coconut milk latte!

What kind of coffee works best with coconut milk?

Ultimately, the best coffee choice for a coconut milk latte is subjective and depends on your personal taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different coffee beans and roasts to find the combination that brings out the flavors you enjoy most when paired with coconut milk.

close up image of a short off white speckled mug filled with a latte that is topped with coconut flakes

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