The Best Peppermint Latte Recipe

When you’re a fan of that cooling peppermint flavor, it can be tough waiting around all year for your favorite coffee shop to bring it back in season. Well, now you don’t have to! Whether you like it hot or iced, I’ve got you covered in creating the most perfectly balanced peppermint latte you’ve ever had.

Enjoy your delicious drink while getting ready in the morning, when you need an afternoon pick-me-up, or in the evening as you’re nestled up on the couch with a decaf version. It’s really perfect for any time of the day. And the best part is that it’s ready in just a few easy steps! If you’re a coffee lover with a strong peppermint craving, this is definitely for you and if you want to level it up, enjoy it with these snowflake cookies!

Since you are here and love a holiday coffee recipe, check out this Homemade Peppermint Mocha Recipe for Coffee Creamer, this White Chocolate Peppermint Mocha Latte Recipe, or this Copycat Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino Recipe.

Ingredients for this peppermint latte recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this hot beverage. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements. 

• Espresso: serves as the base for the latte. Make sure to use high quality espresso for the best flavored drink.
• Steamed Milk: creates a creamy and smooth texture and helps to balance the strong coffee and peppermint flavors. If you don’t have an espresso machine with a steaming stem, simply heat up your milk in a pot or microwave first then foam it with a milk frother. You can even use an immersion blender if you don’t have a frother.
• Monin Peppermint Syrup: infuses the latte with a sweet and festive minty flavor.
• Whipped Cream: enhances the drink’s aesthetic and creates a velvety finish.
• Crushed Candy Canes or Chocolate Shavings: are the festive garnishes that add a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

You can use my code CHAHINEZ on the Monin site for an extra discount if you prefer to get this peppermint syrup form there rather than to Amazon!

How to make this peppermint latte recipe

This is how you can make the perfect drink. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the full step-by-step instructions! 

1. Brew a shot or two of espresso, or a strong cup of fresh brew coffee and pour it into your favorite mug.
2. Mix in the Monin Peppermint Syrup, stirring well to ensure it’s fully blended.
3. Warm the milk using a steam wand, handheld frother, or heat it gently in a small saucepan while whisking vigorously to create froth.
4. Pour the steamed milk slowly over the espresso mixture, using a spoon to hold back the froth. Fill the mug, then spoon the froth on top.
5. Add a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with crushed peppermint candies or chocolate shavings for a festive touch.
6. Enjoy immediately and embrace the holiday vibes in every sip!

Peppermint latte recipe Tips and Tricks

• Serve in a Pre-Warmed Mug: Pre-warm your mug with hot water before making the latte to help it stay hot longer. I personally use this Ember Mug and it’s a total game-changer in the winter.
• Experiment with Peppermint Intensity: If you prefer a subtler peppermint flavor, start with a smaller amount of syrup or extract and gradually increase it.
• Choose High-Quality Coffee: Since the coffee itself makes up a significant amount of the flavor, try to use a high-quality brand to get the best experience out of your latte.

Why you need to make this peppermint latte recipe recipe!

• This easy recipe only requires a few simple ingredients that can be found at any grocery store.
• It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit while getting your caffeine fix.
• After you take your first sip, I guarantee it will become you new favorite drink.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ

Can I use peppermint extract instead of syrup?

You can, but it will change the recipe entirely. Extract and syrup are not 1:1 interchangeable because they have different potencies and sweetness levels.

To match the peppermint flavor from the 1 and ½ tablespoons of syrup, you will need no more than a few drops. My advice would be to start with less, stir, then taste and add more if you need to.

You will also have to sweeten it. The syrup is useful because the sugar is already dissolved and blends well with other liquids. The best thing to do would be to add sugar or to the freshly poured, hot espresso so that it can combine smoothly. Or you could add syrup-style sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or simple syrup.

What type of milk should I use?

For lattes, whole milk is best because it has a rich, creamy texture and foams well steamed or frothed. But the milk is easy to substitute and you can honestly your favorite milk of choice if you prefer regular milk or fat-free. Plant-based milks also work fine, such as almond milk and oat milk. You could use coconut milk; however, the flavor might be altered.

What if I don’t have an espresso machine?

You can use cold brew concentrate or instant espresso powder if you don’t have fresh espresso. It’s really more about the potency of the coffee that we’re after rather than the way it’s made, so no worries if you don’t have the exact fit.

Can I make an iced latte version of this peppermint latte recipe?

Of course! Even in the winter, some people (my husband) still love to drink iced coffee. To turn this into an iced peppermint latte, start by adding the peppermint syrup to the espresso while it’s hot, top with ice, then with cold milk. Give it a stir to combine, and top with whipped cream and garnishes.

​How can I add chocolate flavor to this recipe?

A homemade peppermint mocha latte is an even more elevated way to enjoy the delicious peppermint flavor because of the pairing. To add the chocolate flavor, you have a couple different options. Pick one or combine them all if you want!

• Add cocoa powder or chocolate drizzle to the milk and mix it before you heat.
• Top your latte with an extra handful of chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

How do I store my leftovers?

Pour your leftover coffee into an airtight container such as a mason jar and put it in the fridge. It should last up to 3 or 4 days. If you have an iced version and want to save it for later. Use the same method but pass it through a sieve first to remove the ice from the liquid. You don’t want to store ice in the fridge or else it will melt and water down your flavor.

The Best Peppermint Latte Recipe

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