Our Copycat Starbucks Vanilla Spice Latte is not only the perfect way to start your day on a cold morning, but it also makes an excellent afternoon pick-me-up!
Back when I was in college—and we’re talking way back in the late 1990s—most of my free time was spent either at the library or at the Starbucks café that opened not far from campus. On days that I didn’t have classes, I would head to Starbucks armed with a notebook and pen in hand to write, dream, and drink coffee—lots of coffee. Back then, however, my Starbucks addiction was considerably more affordable. These days, those fancy lattes are seriously overpriced, in my honest opinion! But my love for the famous coffee chain (and its myriad offerings) hasn’t faded.
Luckily, I can easily recreate some of their classic lattes at home, with simple ingredients and at a fraction of the price. This vanilla spice latte is infused with the warming aromas of cardamom, cinnamon, and sweet vanilla, making each smooth, creamy sip both comforting and uplifting. It’s the perfect way to start the day but also makes a delightful afternoon treat.
Other ways to use the spiced syrup
You’ll have leftover spiced syrup when making this recipe. Of course, you could store it in the fridge to make future lattes, but you can also add it to other drinks such as hot chocolate, milky tea, or even a chai latte. It’s also lovely in iced coffee or added to a milkshake. But the fun doesn’t just stop at drinks! Drizzle it over pancakes or French toast, swirl it through a bowl of oatmeal, or pour it on yogurt or ice cream. I love adding a splash to a glass of sparkling wine!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover syrup can be stored in a jar in the fridge for up to 1 month. Lattes, however, are best enjoyed fresh. Leftover coffee can quickly lose its aroma, so drink this one up immediately.
Serving suggestions
If it’s cold and rainy outside, serve your frothy latte with a stack of these fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes for a warm and cozy start to your day. In the afternoon, I love sipping on a latte with one or two Madeleines. They’re perfect for dipping, too! To keep the Starbucks vibes going strong, pair your latte with a slice of our beautifully moist Starbucks Pumpkin Bread.
Copycat Starbucks Vanilla Spice Latte
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 cardamom pods bruised
- 2 cinnamon sticks broken in half
- 1 vanilla pod split open and seeds removed
- Nutmeg freshly grated, to taste
- 4 tablespoons coarse-ground coffee
- 2 cups very hot (but not boiling) water
- 1 cup almond milk
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine cold water, sugar, cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, vanilla pod (and seeds), and a grating of nutmeg.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes. Let the mixture come to room temperature.
- Once cooled, pour the spiced syrup mixture through a sieve and transfer to a mason jar or bottle.
- Add the coffee to a French press, top with the hot water, and stir well. Place the lid on, but do not press down the plunger yet.
- Let the coffee sit for 4 minutes. Press down the plunger.
- Fill a frother with the almond milk and microwave for 30 to 60 seconds.
- Froth until the milk triples in volume.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of the spiced syrup to a cup. Fill halfway with coffee and stir well.
- Top with the frothed almond milk and serve with freshly grated nutmeg.
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