As the days grow shorter and the chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, spiced latte to bring comfort and joy. The Winter Ember Latte is a perfect blend of rich coffee, warm winter spices, and creamy milk—a drink that feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket. For this recipe, I recommend using a medium roast from olivegrovecoffee.com, which balances beautifully with the spices in this drink. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
For the Spiced Coffee Base:
• 2 shots of espresso or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground ginger
• A tiny pinch of ground cloves (optional, for added depth)
For the Creamy Ember Foam:
• 1 cup milk (oat milk also works well for a creamy consistency)
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
To Garnish:
• Cinnamon stick (for stirring)
• A dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top
Instructions
1. Brew Your Coffee: For a well-rounded, medium-bodied coffee that complements the spices, I recommend using Olive Grove Coffee’s Perk Up Medium Roast. Brew 2 shots of espresso, or a half cup of strong coffee if you prefer a drip method.
2. Add the Winter Spices: In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Add this spice blend directly to your hot coffee, stirring well to blend the flavors. The warm spices harmonize beautifully with the coffee, creating a base that’s as inviting as a winter fire.
3. Prepare the Ember Foam: In a saucepan, warm the milk without boiling it. Froth the milk using a milk frother, whisk, or French press until it becomes creamy and doubles in volume. Stir in honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness, along with the vanilla extract. The honey or maple syrup enhances the warmth of the spices.
4. Assemble the Latte: Pour the spiced coffee into a mug, and then slowly pour the foamed milk on top, creating a soft, creamy layer.
5. Garnish and Serve: Add a cinnamon stick to the mug for stirring, and finish with a light dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder for an added festive touch.
Why the Winter Ember Latte Works
The Winter Ember Latte captures the essence of winter warmth. The medium roast beans from Olive Grove Coffee’s Perk Up offer a smooth, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with winter spices. The creamy milk and gentle sweetness from honey or maple syrup create a comforting, balanced profile that’s both invigorating and soothing.
Final Tips
For a dairy-free option, oat milk brings a natural sweetness and velvety texture. Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking, and consider experimenting with additional spices, like allspice or cardamom, for a unique twist.
Enjoy the Winter Ember Latte, and let it be your companion as you cozy up by the fire on a chilly winter day!