Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
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If you love a good Starbucks coconut milk latte but don’t love the daily price tag, this easy homemade version is about to earn a permanent spot in your morning routine. After testing this more times than I’d like to admit (because coffee matters), I landed on a simple 5-ingredient recipe that delivers the same smooth, lightly sweet flavor in just 10 minutes. It’s cozy, budget-friendly, and honestly just as satisfying as the drive-thru version.
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!
Why You’ll Love This Latte Recipe
- Made With Simple Ingredients: No hard-to-find items or complicated steps. Everything is straightforward and easy to pull together.
- No Special Equipment Required: Espresso gives it that coffeehouse feel, but strong brewed coffee works too. And if you don’t have a frother, a mason jar is an easy backup.
- Naturally Dairy-Free: This recipe uses coconut milk for a creamy, lightly sweet latte that happens to be plant-based.
- Tried and Tested: This is one of my go-to coffee recipes, and after making it over and over since 2021, I can confidently say it’s worth keeping on repeat.
This is the coffee I keep coming back to when I want something simple that still feels a little special. It’s quick to make, works with either espresso or strong brewed coffee, and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand.
The coconut milk adds a creamy texture with just a hint of sweetness, making it naturally dairy-free without sacrificing flavor. Even if that’s not something you’re looking for, it’s one of those recipes that just works every time.
Coconut Milk Coffee Ingredients
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
If you’re anything like me, you’ll end up tweaking this depending on your mood… which is exactly why it’s such a solid go-to.
- Sweetener Options: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup, honey, or a flavored syrup like vanilla or coconut. Adjust to taste depending on how sweet you like your latte.
- Skip the Sweetener: The coconut milk adds a natural hint of sweetness, so you can leave out the sugar entirely for a more subtle flavor.
- Spice It Up: Not a cinnamon fan? Try a pinch of nutmeg or leave the spices out altogether for a cleaner, classic coconut latte.
- Different Milk Options: Coconut milk gives the best flavor here, but almond milk or oat milk will still work if that’s what you have on hand. Just know you’ll lose a little of that signature coconut taste.
- Hot or Iced: This recipe works both ways. For iced, let the coffee cool slightly and pour over ice before adding the frothed milk.
- Stronger Coffee Flavor: Use espresso for a bolder, coffeehouse-style drink, or stick with strong brewed coffee for a more mellow version.
How To Froth Milk In A Mason Jar
No frother? No problem. This quick method gives you that light, foamy top using just a mason jar and a microwave.
- ADD: Fill a mason jar halfway with milk. Stir in any sweetener or spices.
- SHAKE: Secure the lid and shake hard for 30 to 60 seconds, until foamy.
- HEAT: Remove the lid and microwave for 30 seconds to set the foam.
- FINISH: Pour into your coffee and spoon the foam on top.
How To Make a Coconut Milk Latte at Home
Making a coconut milk latte at home is surprisingly simple and comes together in just a few minutes using basic ingredients.
- Start by brewing 8 ounces of strong coffee or pulling two shots of espresso. Divide the coffee between two mugs and set aside.
- In a jar or tall glass, combine the coconut milk with the brown sugar and any optional cinnamon or vanilla. Warm the milk in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, just until heated through. Use a handheld frother to whisk the milk until light and foamy.
- Pour the warm coconut milk over the coffee, then spoon the foam on top. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Coconut Latte Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Storage and Make-Ahead
This coconut milk latte is best enjoyed fresh, but you can still prep a few things ahead to make mornings easier.
- If you have leftovers, store the latte in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The foam will settle as it sits, so give it a quick stir or shake before reheating. Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
- To save time, you can mix the coconut milk, brown sugar, and spices in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready, just heat and froth the milk, then pour it over freshly brewed coffee or espresso.
If you prefer an iced coconut milk latte, brew your coffee ahead of time and store it chilled. When ready to serve, pour over ice and add your prepared milk.
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Coconut Milk Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Ingredients
- 8 oz strongly brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso
- 1 cup coconut milk- from a can
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- dash of vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Make 8 ounces of strong coffee or pull 2 shots of espresso. Divide between two mugs.
- In a jar or tall glass, combine the coconut milk, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
- Microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, until warm but not boiling.
- Use a handheld frother to whip the milk until light and foamy, about 15 to 20 seconds.
- (No frother? Shake in a mason jar, then heat.)
- Pour the warm milk over the coffee, then spoon the foam on top.
- Enjoy immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a stronger latte, use espresso instead of brewed coffee
- Taste and adjust sweetness before pouring into your coffee
- For iced: let coffee cool, pour over ice, then add milk
- Full-fat coconut milk will give the creamiest texture
Equipment
The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.
I just made this with espresso; I followed your photo and filled topped the cup off with the cream and YUM! This is so pleasant. It is perfect! I used Swerve brown sugar as I try to watch sugar. Thank you for sharing this. Since my first recipe with you was a hit, I am now following you on Pinterest
Thanks for the tip about Swerve, Kathy! I’ll have to try that out. Also, excited to have you as a pinterest follower! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or recipe suggestions.
This was honestly the best latte I’ve ever made! Made it in my Breville espresso maker. Added cinnamon and a dash maple syrup to coconut milk and used the automatic frother in he machine. Turned out great!
Hi Liz, This comment honestly made my day. This latte is my personal favorite, so it means a lot when others share my excitement for the recipe! Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Wondering if you can pull this off using coconut creme? sounds like this would be delicious.
Hi Cheryl, I’ve never tried it myself. I just did some research that suggests it could work. I think it would be a little thicker than coconut milk and probably more rich.
This is such a treat, especially for those who are dairy-intolerant. So simple – and preferable to coconut milk products that are highly processed and full of additives. A small teaspoon of honey is also a great sugar substitute. Love this, thank you!
Hi Morven, I’m glad you enjoyed this latte. It’s one of my favorites. I’ll have to try honey next time I make it.
This was absolutely delicious!! I ran out of dairy milk and wanted to make a latte, but then I realized I had coconut milk, which led me to this recipe. I brewed my own espresso and added maple syrup and cinnamon on top at the end. Sooooo good! I’ve had many lattes with non-dairy milk and this is the best by far. Even my husband, who hates coconut, said it was incredible. I will say that next time, I will froth the milk using my handheld Zulay milk frother. The jar method was decent, but didn’t give me the nice foam that a traditional latte has. Thanks for the recipe!
Hi Mallory, thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review. I love feedback and this made my day!
Does this need to be kept refrigerated? If so will it solidify? I just made it and I’m so excited to try it in my coffee tomorrow!
Hi Erina, if you plan to store the coconut milk mixture for later I suggest adding it all to a jar and storing it in the refrigerator until you are ready to use. Do not heat up or shake until just before serving. It would need to be kept in the refrigerator.
Thanks for the great recipe! I used a tablespoon of condensed milk, instead of brown sugar – yum!!!
What a fun substitution! I’ll have to give that a try in the future.
Good recipe and love those mugs! Can you share where to find them?
Hi Michelle, those are from target! You can find them through this link.
fast, east and delicious!!!
Thank you, Michelle!