Banana Latte Recipe

If your mornings could use a sweet twist, say hello to the Banana Latte! This playful, cozy drink blends creamy oat milk and banana simple syrup with robust espresso for something truly special. It’s like a barista-quality treat and homemade banana bread had a deliciously caffeinated baby. You’ll be shocked by how easy it is to whip up this dreamy, ice-cold pick-me-up right at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Banana Latte truly lies in its handful of simple yet star ingredients. Each has its moment to shine, adding natural sweetness, warm spice, and creamy depth that’ll make your drink taste like a café creation—even without fancy syrups or equipment.

• Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better! They infuse the syrup with natural banana flavor and just the right touch of sweetness.
• Brown Sugar: Brings out a deeper, almost caramel-like note that plays perfectly with banana and coffee.
• Water: Helps dissolve the sugar for a pourable, lusciously thin syrup.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg (optional): Cinnamon is essential for warmth, while nutmeg adds a subtle, bakery-inspired twist if you like.
• Kosher Salt: Just a pinch balances and brightens the other flavors—don’t skip it!
• Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract: Adds aromatic depth and a hint of luxury, especially if you choose paste.
• Double Shot of Espresso: Good strong coffee is key, balancing out the sweetness and giving you that beloved latte lift.
• Banana Simple Syrup: The heart of this drink, customizable to your preferred level of banana flavor.
• Oat Milk (or any plant-based milk): Extra creamy and neutral, oat milk blends perfectly with banana and espresso. Swap for almond, soy, or dairy milk as you wish.
• Ice Cubes: For the ultimate chilled refreshment—or leave them out for a steaming hot version.

Variations

The beauty of the Banana Latte is how incredibly flexible it is! Whether you’re avoiding certain ingredients or want to jazz things up with your own twist, here are a few fun ways to put your signature spin on this delicious drink.

• Chocolate Banana Latte: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to your banana syrup for a banana-choco mashup fans will adore.
• Maple Banana Latte: Swap half the brown sugar for pure maple syrup to amplify the cozy, breakfasty vibes.
• Protein Boost: Blend in a scoop of vanilla protein powder for a post-workout treat that echoes banana bread.
• Non-Coffee Version: Sub out espresso for strong black tea or extra-strong brewed chicory for a caffeine-free, banana “latte.”
• Dairy Swap: If you love full-fat creaminess, use whole milk or half-and-half in place of plant-based milk.

How to Make Banana Latte

Step 1: Make the Banana Simple Syrup

Begin by mashing two very ripe bananas in a small saucepan, then add brown sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of kosher salt. Whisk the mixture together—it should look thick and slightly lumpy at first, but that’s exactly right. This is where all that natural banana sweetness starts to build.

Step 2: Simmer and Strain the Syrup

Bring your pot to as gentle a boil as possible, then immediately reduce the heat and let the syrup quietly burble away for about 10 minutes. Give it a stir now and then—you’re infusing the liquid with maximum banana flavor while dissolving all the sugar. When it’s fragrant and slightly thickened, strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract every drop of syrupy goodness.

Step 3: Stir In the Vanilla

While your banana syrup is still warm (but not piping hot), stir in the vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract. This brings a gorgeous depth, making your Banana Latte taste like a true bakery treat!

Step 4: Assemble Your Banana Latte

Add a tablespoon (or more) of banana syrup to the bottom of a tall glass. Fill with ice, pour in creamy oat milk, then top it all with a steamy double shot of espresso, poured right over the milk for that perfect “latte” layering. Stir everything together so the banana syrup flavors every sip.

Step 5: Make It Hot (Optional)

If you’d rather your Banana Latte warm you up, simply steam or froth the oat milk first, skip the ice, and pour that gorgeous espresso straight over the top. It’s a hug in a mug!

How to Serve Banana Latte

Garnishes

Top your Banana Latte with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of cocoa powder for a picture-perfect finish. For the ultimate treat, pop a banana chip or two on top, or even a swirl of dairy-free whipped cream on special occasions—it feels instantly fancy!

Side Dishes

This dreamy latte is a natural match for a thick slice of banana bread, a flaky croissant, or a crunchy biscotti. For something lighter, pair with fresh fruit, nutty granola, or even a small bowl of vanilla yogurt for a mellow, sweet-sidekick breakfast.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer your Banana Latte in a clear glass to show off those gorgeous tiers of banana, milk, and espresso, or serve it in a mug rimmed with brown sugar for a playful touch. Hosting brunch? Make a banana latte bar with different plant milks, toppings, and syrups for guests to create their own custom version!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Extra banana syrup can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It may thicken a bit over time—just give it a good stir before using to return it to that velvety consistency.

Freezing

Banana syrup actually freezes well! Pour any leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze. Pop out cubes as needed—just thaw in the fridge and stir before adding to your next Banana Latte adventure.

Reheating

If your syrup gets too cold or thick, simply warm it briefly in the microwave or in a small pan on the stove. Once it loosens up, it’s ready to give your hot drinks that signature banana-cinnamon glow.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a creamy, surprisingly sophisticated sip with a hug of sweetness, treat yourself to a Banana Latte. It’s unique, versatile, and guaranteed to brighten your day—one glass (or mug!) is all it takes to become an instant fan. Give it a try and let your kitchen become your new favorite coffee shop!

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