Home
Recipes
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic
Spiked Vanilla Latte Recipe

Spiked Vanilla Latte Recipe

Master this homemade spiked vanilla latte recipe that combines the best espresso with your choice of vodka or Baileys for the ultimate cozy cocktail. This easy, warming drink elevates your coffee game with rich vanilla notes and craft cocktail techniques for café-quality results at home.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A frosted, high-ball glass filled with a two-toned vanilla latte cocktail, showcasing a rich dark coffee layer beneath a velvety cream top. Warm, diffused lighting highlights delicate swirls where coffee and cream meet, while carefully placed vanilla beans lean against the glass. Tiny coffee beans scatter around the base and a light dusting of cinnamon creates a rustic texture on the foam. Crystal-clear ice cubes peek through the amber-hued cocktail, catching light and creating depth against the dark espresso tones.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml freshly brewed espresso (or 90ml strong brewed coffee)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">45ml vodka or Baileys Irish Cream</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml vanilla syrup (or 10ml simple syrup with 5 drops vanilla extract)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml steamed milk</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">5ml coffee liqueur (optional for extra coffee flavor)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Whipped cream for topping (optional)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Ground cinnamon or grated chocolate for garnish</li></ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size:
🔥 Calories:
🥑 Fat:
🧈 Saturated Fat:
🍞 Carbohydrates:
🍭 Sugar:
🍗 Protein:
🫀 Cholesterol:
🧂 Sodium:

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Coffee maker or espresso machine</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Milk frother or small saucepan</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger for measuring</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Tall glass or mug</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Brew your espresso or strong coffee. The quality of your coffee greatly impacts the final drink, so use freshly ground beans if possible. Allow to cool slightly (about 1 minute) – coffee that's too hot will burn off some of the alcohol.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>While coffee is brewing, heat your milk in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling (about 65°C). For best texture, use a milk frother to create a silky microfoam – this creates the perfect latte texture that allows the cocktail ingredients to blend harmoniously.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Pour the vanilla syrup into your serving glass or mug. The syrup will settle at the bottom, which helps to properly distribute sweetness throughout the drink as you sip.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add your choice of vodka (for a cleaner, less sweet profile) or Baileys (for a creamier, more indulgent version). If using vodka and wanting more coffee intensity, this is when to add the optional coffee liqueur.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Pour in the hot espresso or coffee and stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients. The heat will help release the aromatic compounds in both the coffee and alcohol.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Slowly pour the steamed milk over the back of the bar spoon held just above the coffee mixture. This technique creates a layered effect and preserves the foam on top of the drink.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>If desired, top with a small amount of lightly whipped cream for extra indulgence. The cream should float on top, creating a luxurious mouthfeel with each sip.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or freshly grated chocolate for aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately while still warm, as the drink's flavors are best experienced at the proper temperature.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Spiked Vanilla Latte?

A Spiked Vanilla Latte combines espresso (or strong coffee), vodka or Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla syrup, steamed milk, and optional coffee liqueur. It's finished with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or grated chocolate for garnish.

How to make Spiked Vanilla Latte at home?

Learn how to make Spiked Vanilla Latte by brewing quality espresso, heating milk until steaming, then combining vanilla syrup, your choice of spirit (vodka or Baileys), and coffee in a glass. Pour steamed milk over slowly using a bar spoon for layering, then finish with optional whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or chocolate.

Can I make this boozy coffee cocktail without an espresso machine?

Absolutely! While espresso creates the best flavour, you can substitute with 90ml of very strong brewed coffee. A Moka pot, French press, or even instant coffee (made extra strong) will work. The key is ensuring your coffee has enough intensity to stand up to the alcohol and milk.

What's the best alcohol to use in a coffee cocktail?

For a coffee cocktail, Baileys Irish Cream offers creamy sweetness, while vodka provides a cleaner profile that lets the coffee shine. Other excellent options include Kahlúa, rum, bourbon, or amaretto. The choice depends on whether you prefer a sweeter, creamier drink or one with more defined coffee notes.

How can I create the perfect milk foam for my spiked latte?

For perfect milk foam, use cold milk with at least 2% fat content. Heat to 65°C without boiling, then froth using a dedicated milk frother, espresso machine steam wand, or a French press by rapidly plunging up and down. The microfoam creates a silky texture that beautifully complements the cocktail.

Want to try something else in ...

Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Try following recommended recipes

View all
An elegant lowball glass featuring a deep amber-brown cocktail with a distinctive creamy nitrogen-infused head, captured from a 45-degree angle that highlights its silky texture. Crystal-clear ice cubes catch the warm, amber bar lighting, creating golden reflections through the drink. A twisted orange peel garnish rests on the glass rim, with tiny essential oil droplets visible on the drink's surface. Moody lighting creates dramatic shadows against a dark wooden bar top, while copper bar tools sit slightly blurred in the background, suggesting the craft that went into creating this nitro-infused twist on a classic.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Nitro Coffee Old Fashioned Recipe

A sophisticated fusion of cold brew intensity and whiskey warmth, heightened with nitrogen's velvety texture and punctuated with orange notes for a contemporary classic experience.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass showcases dramatic layers where dark espresso cascades over a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, creating mesmerizing coffee-colored swirls. The glass sits on a rustic wooden board against a moody background with warm, low lighting that emphasizes the drink's rich amber-brown tones. Condensation forms on the exterior while a delicate orange twist and coffee bean garnish rest artistically on top. A bottle of artisanal amaro stands blurred in the background, suggesting the cocktail's bittersweet foundation.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Amaro Affogato Cocktail Recipe

A decadent fusion of bitter amaro, rich espresso, and velvety ice cream creates a sophisticated dessert cocktail that balances warmth and chill with exquisite complexity.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
An elegant martini glass filled with a dark, glossy espresso cocktail, topped with a perfect layer of silky crema. The deep brown-black liquid catches the light with subtle crimson undertones. A single maraschino cherry speared with a thin chocolate stick rests on the rim, while cocoa powder dusts one side of the glass surface. Shot in moody, atmospheric bar lighting that creates dramatic shadows, emphasizing the luxurious texture of the cocktail. Droplets of condensation bead on the chilled glass, suggesting the perfect temperature. A bottle of cherry liqueur and chocolate bitters sit blurred in the background, hinting at the complex flavors within.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Black Forest Espresso Martini Recipe

A decadent fusion of rich espresso, velvety chocolate, and luscious cherry flavors that transforms the classic espresso martini into a boozy Black Forest gateau in a glass.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal-clear rocks glass with a single large ice cube capturing light reflections, filled with an amber-bronze cocktail that hints at both coffee richness and botanical complexity. Golden hour lighting accentuates the warm tones against a dark walnut bar top, while wisps of expressed orange oils hover above the surface. A twisted orange peel garnish rests elegantly on the rim, with coffee beans scattered artfully nearby to hint at the flavor profile. The drink's silky texture is evident in the way it clings slightly to the glass, suggesting both spirit strength and coffee integration.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Coffee Negroni Blanco Recipe

A sophisticated fusion of bright white coffee notes with the herbal complexity of a white negroni, creating an invigorating yet smooth aperitivo experience.
Difficulty:
Intermediate
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A close-up shot of a Café Amaretto in a crystal-clear rocks glass, showcasing distinct layers of dark coffee liqueur and cream crowned with a light dusting of cocoa powder. The lighting is warm and intimate, resembling the amber glow of a sophisticated cocktail lounge. Ice cubes glisten as they slowly melt, with condensation forming on the exterior of the glass. A whole coffee bean garnish rests on top of the cream, while a cinnamon stick leans against the rim, providing texture contrast. The cocktail sits atop a polished wooden bar surface with soft focus bar bottles in the background, creating depth and context.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Café Amaretto Recipe

A seductive blend of rich coffee liqueur, smooth amaretto, and fresh cream creates a dessert-worthy cocktail that's both indulgent and remarkably balanced.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A short, heavy-bottomed rocks glass sits against a dark wooden bar top illuminated by warm, amber lighting. The Sombrero cocktail displays perfect layering - a deep, chocolate-brown base of Kahlúa transitioning into a cloud-like layer of pristine white cream that floats delicately on top. A fine dusting of freshly grated coffee beans creates a delicate pattern across the cream's surface, with a single coffee bean garnish resting at the center. The contrast between the dark liqueur and bright white cream is accentuated by droplets of condensation gathering on the glass, suggesting the perfect serving temperature.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Sombrero - Kahlúa (Coffee Liqueur) and Cream Recipe

A luscious, velvety cascade of rich coffee liqueur gently blanketed with fresh cream, offering comforting warmth and indulgent sweetness in each sip.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
2 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A Coffee Negroni captured in dramatic low-key lighting with sharp highlights accentuating the drink's deep amber-ruby color transitioning to dark coffee tones. The cocktail rests in a crystal rocks glass with a large crystal-clear ice cube, where thin swirls of coffee create mesmerizing patterns within the drink. A perfectly twisted orange peel garnish rests on the rim, with essential oils glistening on the surface. Soft backlighting illuminates the translucent edges of the drink, showcasing its silky texture and complex layering of Campari, gin, vermouth, and cold brew. Condensation beads on the outside of the glass catch ambient light, suggesting the perfect serving temperature.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Coffee Negroni Recipe

A bold fusion of classic bitter-sweet Negroni elements with rich cold brew coffee undertones, creating a sophisticated caffeine-infused aperitivo experience.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
A crystal rocks glass showcases a dark amber cocktail with a large clear ice cube, captured in moody low-key lighting that highlights the liquid's rich mahogany tones. Golden rim highlights trace the glass's edge as warm bar lighting catches the expressed oils from the orange twist garnish floating atop the drink. A close-up reveals delicate coffee grounds sprinkled on the surface and the textural contrast between the glossy cocktail and the rustic wooden coaster beneath. The composition features subtle coffee beans scattered artfully around the base, with dramatic shadows creating depth against a dark walnut bar top.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Coffee Old-Fashioned Recipe

A sophisticated fusion of bold whiskey and robust coffee notes, creating a complex evening sipper with aromatic depth and satisfying bittersweet character.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
Overhead shot of a frosted martini glass filled with a creamy, coffee-colored frozen concoction, its surface swirled with chocolate syrup drizzles. A close-up reveals the luxurious texture—somewhere between milkshake and frozen cocktail—with tiny ice crystals catching the warm, amber bar lighting. The glass rim is adorned with a delicate chocolate and crushed cookie coating that complements the cocktail's creamy complexion. A chocolate-dipped pirouette cookie and fresh mint sprig lean against the glass, creating an elegant vertical element. The setup includes vintage silver cocktail tools and a small dish of chocolate shavings, all arranged on a distressed wooden surface that enhances the drink's rich brown tones.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Baileys Irish Ice Recipe

Rich, velvety Baileys Irish Cream transformed into a decadent frozen treat with hints of coffee and chocolate that's both dessert and nightcap in one glass.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
2 cocktails
View recipe
An overhead shot of a tall glass tumbler showcasing distinct layers of deep mahogany coffee and whiskey blend, topped with pristine white whipped cream that's just beginning to melt into the dark liquid below. Amber-tinted bar lighting catches the glass edges, creating a warm glow against the dark cocktail. A light dusting of cocoa powder creates a delicate pattern across the cream's surface, while a single coffee bean rests on top as garnish. Droplets of condensation form on the glass's exterior, suggesting the refreshing chill within. The scene is completed with a folded napkin and perhaps a small spoon nearby, all arranged on a polished wooden bar surface that reflects subtle hints of light.
Cocktails
Coffee Cocktails & Alcoholic

Dublin Iced Coffee Recipe

A sophisticated collision of worlds where robust cold brew coffee mingles with Irish whiskey and coffee liqueur, crowned with velvety whipped cream and a whisper of chocolate bitterness.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
View recipe
No items found.
{ "@context": "http://schema.org/", "@type": "Recipe", "name": "Spiked Vanilla Latte Recipe", "image": ["https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/67f19ab882e7325b0d63c86a/6843515ec6044457d3a0fee9_Leonardo_Phoenix_10_A_frosted_highball_glass_filled_with_a_two_0.jpeg"], "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gurbir Aujla", "brand": "What's Baking?", "jobTitle": "Mixologist" }, "datePublished": "2024-05-23", "description": "Master this homemade spiked vanilla latte recipe that combines the best espresso with your choice of vodka or Baileys for the ultimate cozy cocktail. This easy, warming drink elevates your coffee game with rich vanilla notes and craft cocktail techniques for café-quality results at home.", "prepTime": "PT10M", "totalTime": "PT10M", "keywords": "spiked coffee, vanilla latte cocktail, boozy coffee, winter cocktail, creamy cocktail", "recipeYield": "1", "recipeCategory": "Cocktail", "recipeCuisine": "Modern", "nutrition": { "@type": "NutritionInformation", "calories": "225 calories", "carbohydrateContent": "14 g", "proteinContent": "4 g", "fatContent": "6 g", "saturatedFatContent": "3.5 g", "cholesterolContent": "20 mg", "sodiumContent": "40 mg", "sugarContent": "12 g", "alcoholContent": "14 g", "servingSize": "1 cocktail" }, "recipeIngredient": [ "60ml freshly brewed espresso (or 90ml strong brewed coffee)", "45ml vodka or Baileys Irish Cream", "15ml vanilla syrup (or 10ml simple syrup with 5 drops vanilla extract)", "120ml steamed milk", "5ml coffee liqueur (optional for extra coffee flavor)", "Whipped cream for topping (optional)", "Ground cinnamon or grated chocolate for garnish" ], "recipeInstructions": [ { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Brew coffee", "text": "Brew your espresso or strong coffee. The quality of your coffee greatly impacts the final drink, so use freshly ground beans if possible. Allow to cool slightly (about 1 minute) – coffee that's too hot will burn off some of the alcohol." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Steam milk", "text": "While coffee is brewing, heat your milk in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling (about 65°C). For best texture, use a milk frother to create a silky microfoam – this creates the perfect latte texture that allows the cocktail ingredients to blend harmoniously." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add syrup", "text": "Pour the vanilla syrup into your serving glass or mug. The syrup will settle at the bottom, which helps to properly distribute sweetness throughout the drink as you sip." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add alcohol", "text": "Add your choice of vodka (for a cleaner, less sweet profile) or Baileys (for a creamier, more indulgent version). If using vodka and wanting more coffee intensity, this is when to add the optional coffee liqueur." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add espresso", "text": "Pour in the hot espresso or coffee and stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients. The heat will help release the aromatic compounds in both the coffee and alcohol." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add milk", "text": "Slowly pour the steamed milk over the back of the bar spoon held just above the coffee mixture. This technique creates a layered effect and preserves the foam on top of the drink." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Add whipped cream", "text": "If desired, top with a small amount of lightly whipped cream for extra indulgence. The cream should float on top, creating a luxurious mouthfeel with each sip." }, { "@type": "HowToStep", "name": "Garnish", "text": "Finish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or freshly grated chocolate for aroma and visual appeal. Serve immediately while still warm, as the drink's flavors are best experienced at the proper temperature." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "156" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Elena Petrova", "datePublished": "2024-05-10", "reviewBody": "This spiked vanilla latte is absolutely divine! The balance between the coffee, alcohol and vanilla is perfect. I used Baileys and it made for the coziest evening drink during our cold spring nights.", "name": "Perfect winter evening treat!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Alejandro Vega", "datePublished": "2024-05-12", "reviewBody": "The technique of layering with a bar spoon makes all the difference! This cocktail has the perfect silky texture and just the right amount of alcohol. I've made it three weekends in a row now.", "name": "Silky smooth and perfectly boozy!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Mei-Ling Wong", "datePublished": "2024-05-15", "reviewBody": "I never thought I could make something this delicious at home! Used vodka and the optional coffee liqueur for an extra kick. It's honestly better than what I get at fancy coffee shops.", "name": "Better than coffee shop versions!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Thomas Schmidt", "datePublished": "2024-05-18", "reviewBody": "This cocktail is exactly what you need when you want something warming and indulgent. The vanilla notes really shine through and the espresso gives just the right amount of bitterness to balance the sweetness.", "name": "Warming comfort in every sip!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Aisha Patel", "datePublished": "2024-05-20", "reviewBody": "Made these for a brunch party and they were the star of the show! Everyone asked for the recipe. The whipped cream on top makes it feel extra special. Will definitely be making these again!", "name": "My brunch guests demanded seconds!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What ingredients are used in Spiked Vanilla Latte?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "A Spiked Vanilla Latte combines espresso (or strong coffee), vodka or Baileys Irish Cream, vanilla syrup, steamed milk, and optional coffee liqueur. It's finished with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or grated chocolate for garnish." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How to make Spiked Vanilla Latte at home?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Learn how to make Spiked Vanilla Latte by brewing quality espresso, heating milk until steaming, then combining vanilla syrup, your choice of spirit (vodka or Baileys), and coffee in a glass. Pour steamed milk over slowly using a bar spoon for layering, then finish with optional whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or chocolate." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I make this boozy coffee cocktail without an espresso machine?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Absolutely! While espresso creates the best flavour, you can substitute with 90ml of very strong brewed coffee. A Moka pot, French press, or even instant coffee (made extra strong) will work. The key is ensuring your coffee has enough intensity to stand up to the alcohol and milk." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What's the best alcohol to use in a coffee cocktail?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For a coffee cocktail, Baileys Irish Cream offers creamy sweetness, while vodka provides a cleaner profile that lets the coffee shine. Other excellent options include Kahlúa, rum, bourbon, or amaretto. The choice depends on whether you prefer a sweeter, creamier drink or one with more defined coffee notes." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How can I create the perfect milk foam for my spiked latte?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For perfect milk foam, use cold milk with at least 2% fat content. Heat to 65°C without boiling, then froth using a dedicated milk frother, espresso machine steam wand, or a French press by rapidly plunging up and down. The microfoam creates a silky texture that beautifully complements the cocktail." } } ] }