We love how an iced oat milk latte delivers a creamy, refreshing twist on classic coffee drinks, especially for those embracing plant-based lifestyles. It’s become a staple in cafes worldwide, born from the surge in dairy-free options that keep us energized without the heaviness.
With its smooth oat milk base and chilled espresso kick, this recipe is our go-to for quick, customizable brews that rival your favorite shop. Whether you’re new to it or a pro, we’ll make it simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
For our Iced Oat Milk Latte recipe, we start by gathering the key ingredients that create its creamy, refreshing appeal. These components ensure a simple, dairy-free brew perfect for home baristas.
- 2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee, freshly made for the best flavor)
- 1 cup of oat milk (unsweetened and chilled, to maintain that smooth, velvety texture we love in plant-based lattes)
- 1 cup of ice cubes (use large cubes to avoid quick dilution and keep the drink cold longer)
- 1 tablespoon of simple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness; adjust based on preference to enhance the Iced Oat Milk Latte‘s natural notes)
Tools and Equipment
To brew our refreshing iced oat milk latte at home, we need a few essential tools and equipment that make the process smooth and efficient. These items ensure precise measurements and optimal results, allowing us to create a creamy dairy-free delight without visiting a cafe.
Here’s a list of the key tools we recommend, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Espresso Machine or Coffee Brewer: We rely on a reliable espresso machine to extract 2 shots of espresso quickly, delivering that bold coffee flavor. If unavailable, a French press or pour-over coffee maker serves as an excellent alternative for brewing ½ cup of strong coffee.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is crucial for our recipe, so we use standard measuring cups to portion out 1 cup of unsweetened oat milk and any optional 1 tablespoon of simple syrup. This helps achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Stirrer or Long Spoon: For mixing everything seamlessly, we suggest a sturdy stirrer to blend the espresso, oat milk, and ice without diluting the drink too fast.
- Glasses or Mugs: We opt for tall, insulated glasses to hold 1 cup of ice cubes and the final mixture, keeping our iced oat milk latte chilled and visually appealing for serving.
- Ice Cube Tray or Mold: While not always necessary if you have pre-made ice, we find a dedicated tray useful for preparing fresh ice cubes to maintain that crisp, refreshing texture.
In our experience, these tools are versatile and budget-friendly, making home brewing accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned coffee enthusiasts. Always ensure your equipment is clean and ready to preserve the pure taste of your iced oat milk latte.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and tools, let’s walk through the simple steps to create our refreshing iced oat milk latte at home. We’ll ensure each stage highlights the creamy texture and invigorating flavors that make this dairy-free drink a favorite.
Brew the Coffee
To start, Brew the Coffee as the base of our iced oat milk latte, capturing its bold, aromatic essence that pairs perfectly with the subtle nuttiness of oat milk. Begin by measuring 2 shots of espresso (about 2 ounces) or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee using your espresso machine or coffee brewer for optimal extraction—aim for a rich, dark brew that fills the air with a tempting coffee aroma. If using an espresso machine, tamp the grounds firmly and extract for 25-30 seconds to achieve a concentrated flavor; for a coffee brewer, use a fine grind and steep for 4-5 minutes with hot water just off the boil. Once ready, let it cool slightly to preserve the drink’s chilled, refreshing quality—this step sets the foundation for a smooth, energizing latte.
Prepare the Oat Milk
Next, Prepare the Oat Milk to enhance our iced oat milk latte’s creamy, velvety mouthfeel that mimics traditional dairy without the heaviness. Pour 1 cup of unsweetened chilled oat milk into a measuring cup or directly into a frother if you want a light foam—gently froth it for 10-15 seconds to create a soft, airy texture that adds a luxurious layer to the drink. Ensure the oat milk is thoroughly chilled in the refrigerator beforehand for that crisp, cooling effect; if it’s not cold enough, stir in a few ice cubes and let it sit for 1-2 minutes. This preparation step amplifies the natural sweetness and smooth consistency, making our latte feel indulgent and plant-based.
Assemble the Latte
Finally, Assemble the Latte by combining everything for a harmonious blend that delivers a refreshing, creamy iced oat milk latte bursting with balanced flavors. Fill a tall glass with 1 cup of ice cubes to keep the drink cool and invigorating, then pour in the freshly brewed coffee over the ice to lock in its robust taste. Add the prepared oat milk slowly, stirring gently with a long spoon for 10-15 seconds to mix thoroughly and create a frothy top—if desired, incorporate 1 tablespoon of simple syrup for a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall smoothness without overpowering the coffee’s natural notes. Once assembled, savor the immediate chill on your palate and the creamy oat milk’s subtle earthiness, resulting in a cafe-quality drink ready to enjoy in under 5 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
To streamline our iced oat milk latte preparation and ensure a quick, refreshing brew every time, we can plan ahead with these practical strategies. This approach saves time in the morning rush while maintaining the drink’s creamy texture and bold flavors.
Preparing Coffee in Advance
We recommend brewing a larger batch of espresso or strong coffee ahead of time to capture its rich, nutty essence without last-minute hassle. Here’s how:
- Brew and Store: Prepare 2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee) as outlined in our recipe. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve freshness and flavor.
- Freezing Option: For longer storage, pour the cooled coffee into an ice cube tray and freeze for up to 1 month. These coffee ice cubes prevent dilution when added to your latte, keeping it robust and chilled.
Oat Milk Readiness
Chilled oat milk is key to achieving that silky, foam-like consistency in our iced oat milk latte, so pre-chilling enhances the experience.
- Refrigerate in Advance: Pour 1 cup of unsweetened oat milk into a sealed container and chill it in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures it’s at the optimal cold temperature, amplifying the drink’s refreshing quality.
- Infuse for Flavor: For a twist, add a dash of vanilla extract to the oat milk before chilling. Stir well and store for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to meld for a more customized brew.
Simple Syrup and Ice Preparation
If sweetness is part of your routine, making simple syrup ahead adds convenience, and fresh ice cubes are always at the ready.
- Simple Syrup Batch: Whisk together 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and simmer until dissolved. Cool and store in a glass bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Use 1 tablespoon per serving for that perfect balance of sweetness.
- Ice Cube Tips: Fill an ice cube tray with water (or brewed coffee for flavored cubes) and freeze overnight. This yields about 12 ice cubes per tray, enough for multiple servings, and keeps your latte icy without watering it down.
For quick reference, here’s a table summarizing storage durations to help us plan effectively:
| Component | Preparation Method | Storage Duration | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brewed Coffee | Cool and refrigerate | Up to 3 days | Use airtight container to avoid oxidation |
| Coffee Ice Cubes | Freeze in trays | Up to 1 month | Wrap trays in plastic for freshness |
| Oat Milk | Chill in sealed container | Up to 5 days | Shake before use to maintain creaminess |
| Simple Syrup | Cool and bottle | Up to 2 weeks | Keep in fridge to prevent spoilage |
By incorporating these make-ahead tips, we elevate our home brewing game, ensuring every iced oat milk latte is as effortless as it is delicious.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring how easy it’s to craft an iced oat milk latte at home
It’s a refreshing dairy-free favorite that brings cafe vibes to your routine
We’re sure you’ll find joy in tweaking flavors to suit your taste
Let’s keep brewing and savoring these simple homemade delights
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an iced oat milk latte?
An iced oat milk latte is a refreshing, plant-based coffee drink that combines espresso or strong brewed coffee with chilled oat milk over ice. It’s creamy, nutty, and dairy-free, making it a popular alternative to traditional lattes. This beverage has surged in cafes worldwide due to growing demand for vegan options, offering a cool, satisfying taste perfect for warm days.
How do I make an iced oat milk latte at home?
To make an iced oat milk latte, brew 2 shots of espresso or ½ cup of strong coffee. Froth 1 cup of chilled unsweetened oat milk for creaminess. Combine in a glass with 1 cup of ice cubes, and add 1 tablespoon of simple syrup if desired. Stir well for a cafe-quality drink ready in under 5 minutes—ideal for beginners.
What ingredients are needed for an iced oat milk latte?
The key ingredients include 2 shots of espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee), 1 cup unsweetened chilled oat milk, 1 cup ice cubes, and optionally 1 tablespoon simple syrup for sweetness. These simple, dairy-free components create a creamy, refreshing latte that’s easy to customize and accessible for home brewing.
What tools are required to brew an iced oat milk latte?
You’ll need an espresso machine or coffee brewer for extraction, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a stirrer or long spoon for mixing, and tall insulated glasses for serving. An ice cube tray is also useful. These budget-friendly tools ensure clean, efficient preparation, making it simple for anyone to create a professional-tasting drink at home.
Can I prepare iced oat milk lattes in advance?
Yes, brew coffee ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in ice cube trays for longer. Pre-chill oat milk and make simple syrup in advance for quick assembly. Add vanilla extract for flavor infusion. This approach saves time and keeps your lattes fresh and delicious whenever you need a fast, refreshing brew.
Why are iced oat milk lattes so popular?
Iced oat milk lattes are popular for their creamy texture and dairy-free appeal, catering to vegans and those avoiding lactose. They’re refreshing, easy to customize, and align with the global rise in plant-based diets. Cafes worldwide offer them due to high demand, providing a nutritious, enjoyable alternative to traditional coffee drinks without compromising taste.
Is oat milk a good alternative for lattes?
Absolutely, oat milk is an excellent dairy alternative for lattes because it’s creamy, nutty, and froths well, mimicking the texture of cow’s milk. It’s also versatile, budget-friendly, and suitable for most diets. Using it in iced lattes enhances flavor without the heaviness of dairy, making it a favorite for health-conscious coffee lovers seeking a sustainable option.