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.
Here to make healthy living feel thoughtful and approachable - one recipe, ritual, or gathering at a time.
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Softly spiced, naturally sweetened, and effortlessly cozy – this maple sweetened vanilla cardamom latte is designed to be savored. In this post, you’ll find a simple method, helpful tips for balancing flavor, and easy substitutions so you can make it your own at home. It’s refined without feeling fussy, and comforting without being heavy.
A maple sweetened vanilla cardamom latte brings warmth and depth without relying on syrups or artificial flavors. Cardamom adds a gentle aromatic note, vanilla rounds everything out, and maple syrup provides just enough sweetness to complement the espresso rather than overpower it.
This recipe is for anyone who loves café-style drinks but prefers to make them at home using simple, high-quality ingredients. The process is straightforward, approachable, and designed to fit seamlessly into your day.
This latte is gently spiced, naturally sweetened, and beautifully balanced. The maple syrup enhances the espresso without masking it, while cardamom adds warmth without becoming overpowering.
It’s also easy to customize. Whether you prefer dairy-free milk, a stronger espresso base, or a lighter touch of spice, this recipe adapts effortlessly.
INGREDIENTS
One double shot of espresso
3/4 cup milk of choice
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom*
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
*Freshly ground cardamom offers the most aroma, but pre-ground cardamom works perfectly for everyday use (this is what I use).
EQUIPMENT
Espresso machine, moka pot, or strong coffee maker
Small saucepan or milk frother
Whisk or handheld frother
Heat-safe mug
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Begin by brewing a double shot of espresso and pouring it into a heat-safe mug. Keeping the espresso hot helps maintain balance once the milk is added.
In a small saucepan, warm the milk over low heat with the maple syrup, cardamom, and vanilla. Whisk gently and continuously, heating just until warm and lightly frothy – avoid boiling to preserve flavor and texture. Alternatively, whisk maple syrup, cardamom, and vanilla into your prepared espresso using a hand frother, then heat and froth your milk using a milk frother.
Pour prepared milk over the espresso. Finish with an optional sprinkle of cardamom and enjoy immediately.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR THE BEST FLAVOR
Cardamom is potent, so start with the smaller amount and adjust to taste. A little goes a long way in coffee-based drinks.
Whole milk and oat milk create the creamiest texture, while almond milk offers a lighter, slightly nutty finish. Use unsweetened milk for the best balance.
MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE TIPS
This latte is best enjoyed fresh, but the spiced milk mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking before pouring over freshly brewed espresso.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make this latte dairy-free?
Yes. Oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk all work well. Choose an unsweetened variety for best flavor balance. Note that dairy-free milks often do not froth as well as whole milk, so keep that in mind.
Does cardamom work well with coffee?
Absolutely. Cardamom is aromatic rather than spicy, and when used lightly, it enhances espresso beautifully.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
You can, but maple syrup blends better into warm milk and complements the cardamom in a more natural way.
What can I use if I don’t have an espresso machine?
Strong brewed coffee or a moka pot work well as substitutes for an espresso machine.
HOSTING TIPS
When hosting brunch or a casual morning gathering, warm a small saucepan of the maple cardamom milk on low heat and let guests build their own lattes. Pair it with freshly brewed espresso and a few simple pastries for an experience that feels thoughtful without extra effort.
A naturally sweetened vanilla cardamom latte made with espresso, warm spices, and pure maple syrup. Cozy, aromatic, and simple to make at home.
Ingredients
Scale
1 double shot espresso
3/4 cup milk of choice
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Begin by brewing a double shot of espresso and pouring it into a heat-safe mug. Keeping the espresso hot helps maintain balance once the milk is added.
In a small saucepan, warm the milk over low heat with the maple syrup, cardamom, and vanilla. Whisk gently and continuously, heating just until warm and lightly frothy – avoid boiling to preserve flavor and texture. Alternatively, whisk maple syrup, cardamom, and vanilla into your prepared espresso using a hand frother, then heat and froth your milk using a milk frother.
Pour prepared milk over the espresso. Finish with an optional sprinkle of cardamom and enjoy immediately.
Dairy-free milks may froth differently depending on brand.
Best enjoyed fresh. Spiced milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Prep Time:3 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Category:Coffee
Method:Stovetop + 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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