I'm Caitlin - culinary hostess, wellness retreat curator, and homebody at heart. This blog is where I share seasonal recipes, intentional living tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from my kitchen, travels, and retreats.
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Winter mornings call for something warm, but also a little indulgent. This Homemade Gingerbread Latte brings together gentle spice, real maple sweetness, and freshly brewed espresso for a cup that feels festive without being overpowering (or overly sweet). You’ll find simple ingredients, barista-style tips, and an easy method you can recreate all season long.
Holiday drinks don’t need syrups or complicated steps to feel special. This Gingerbread Latte is made with pantry spices, maple syrup, and a touch of molasses to create depth without excess sugar. It’s the kind of morning ritual that feels calm, grounding, and quietly celebratory.
Whether you’re easing into a slow winter morning or hosting guests for the holidays, this latte delivers cozy flavor with intention.
Warm, balanced spice blend without being overpowering
No artificial syrups or flavorings
Ready in under 10 minutes
Easy to adapt for dairy-free
INGREDIENTS
Double shot espresso
3/4 cup milk of choice
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon molasses
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of cloves
Pinch of nutmeg
Splash of vanilla extract
EQUIPMENT
Espresso machine, moka pot, or strong coffee maker
Milk frother or steam wand
Small saucepan (optional, if you don’t have a frother)
Hand whisk
Heat-safe mug
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Pull the Espresso : Brew a double shot of espresso and set aside in your favorite mug.
Froth the Milk : Froth or steam the milk using your espresso machine or a handheld frother until hot and lightly foamy.
Flavor the Milk : Add maple syrup, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla directly into the frothed milk. Use a hand whisk to fully incorporate the spices until smooth and fragrant.
Assemble : Pour the spiced milk mixture over the espresso. Stir and enjoy immediately.
MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
The spice mixture can be pre-measured and stored in a small jar for up to one week. Simply add it to freshly frothed milk, maple syrup, and molasses when ready to make your latte.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this without an espresso machine?
Yes. Use strongly brewed coffee or a moka pot for a similar depth of flavor.
Is this latte very sweet?
No – it’s gently sweetened. Add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply swap out with your preferred dairy-free milk alternative, but note that dairy-free milk doesn’t always froth as well as whole milk.
What’s the purpose of the molasses?
Molasses adds that classic gingerbread depth without making the drink heavy or overly sweet.
HOSTING TIPS
When hosting during the holidays, offer one “signature drink” instead of multiple options. Pre-measure the spice blend and set out maple syrup, cinnamon sticks, and nutmeg so guests can customize their cups without cluttering the kitchen.
A cozy Homemade Gingerbread Latte made with maple syrup, warming spices, and espresso – festive, balanced, and easy to make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Double Shot of Espresso
3/4 cup milk of choice
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon molasses
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of ground cloves
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Splash of vanilla extract
Instructions
Pull the Espresso : Brew a double shot of espresso and set aside in your favorite mug.
Froth the Milk : Froth or steam the milk using your espresso machine or a handheld frother until hot and lightly foamy.
Flavor the Milk : Add maple syrup, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla directly into the frothed milk. Use a hand whisk to fully incorporate the spices until smooth and fragrant.
Assemble : Pour the spiced milk mixture over the espresso. Stir and enjoy immediately.
Add sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired.
For a decaf option, use decaf espresso or strong decaf coffee.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Category:Drinks
Method:Espresso
Cuisine:American
Caitlin Lindsey
post author
Caitlin is the creative visionary behind Fit to Entertain, where food, wellness, and intentional living come together. She's passionate about helping others bring joy to the table and live beautifully - one meal at a time.
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