Making a luxurious vanilla latte at home has never been easier - or more delicious - thanks to this easy homemade latte method that requires no special equipment, and vanilla bean simple syrup!
Vanilla Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Bring to a simmer until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla paste (or extract). Use immediately or let cool and store in a jar in the fridge until ready to use.
½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup water, ½ Tablespoon vanilla bean paste
Brew espresso or strong coffee as desired. Pour milk into a mason jar and microwave for 1 ½ minutes. Depending on your microwave, you may need to continue heating in 30-second increments up to another minute. You want the milk hot, but not boiling.
3 ounces espresso (2 shots), 6 ounces whole milk
Carefully remove the jar of milk from the microwave; you may need to use a towel or potholder as it will be hot. Add 2 tablespoons of vanilla bean syrup. Put the lid on the mason jar, and shake vigorously for 30 seconds to 1 minute. See notes below for additional frothing methods.
2 Tablespoons vanilla syrup
Continuing to use a towel or potholder, remove the lid carefully, being aware of any pressure that may have built up in the jar. Pour the milk over the espresso, topping with any foam that remains in the jar. Serve immediately with whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Use caution when shaking and opening the mason jar! Make sure the lid is on tight, use a towel or pot-holder to hold the jar as needed, and open the lid carefully (I again, use a towel in hand).
Additional frothing methods:
Use a milk frother wand
Shake the jar of milk before microwaving. Make sure the milk doubles in size before microwaving, then once heated, immediately pour it into your espresso.
Heat milk in a saucepan on the stovetop (or again in the microwave) then use a whisk to froth the milk.
Strong Coffee: if using strongly brewed coffee instead of espresso, consider using more coffee/less milk for a more latte-like coffee-forward flavor.