Apple Cider Latte is the perfect way to elevate a fall favorite. With its warm spices and crisp apple flavor, apple cider has always been a cozy seasonal staple. But why not take it a step further by combining it with the creamy richness of a latte?
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Apple cider latte recipe
Apple Cider Latte is a cozy, fall-inspired beverage that combines the flavors of apple cider and coffee, often enhanced with spices. It is a delightful alternative to the traditional pumpkin spice latte, appealing to those who enjoy fruity and warm flavors.
Traditional spices enhance apple cider latte flavor by adding depth and warmth to the drink:
- Cinnamon complements apple flavor exceptionally well
- Nutmeg adds a subtle complexity to the overall taste profile
- Ginger with its spicy kick provides pleasant heat that cuts through the sweetness of the apple cider.
This drink is perfect for chilly days. Here’s how to make the Apple Cider Latte:
Apple Cider Latte
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative
- 1 shot of espresso or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- Whipped cream optional
- Cinnamon stick or apple slices optional
Instructions
- Heat the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat.
- In another saucepan, warm the milk and froth it until creamy.
- Pour the apple cider and espresso into two mugs.
- Stir in maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Top with frothed milk and garnish with whipped cream, cinnamon stick, or apple slices if desired.
Variations
1. Iced Apple Cider Latte
For warmer autumn days, the iced version offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional hot latte. To create this variation:
- Brew espresso and let it cool
- Combine cold apple cider with fall spices
- Add espresso and ice
- Top with cold foam or whipped cream
2. Apple Cider Chai Latte
This version combines the warm spices of chai with the sweet, crisp flavor of apple cider. To make this drink:
- Replace the shot of espresso with ½ cup brewed chai tea (or 1 chai tea bag steeped in ½ cup hot water).
- Increase spices: Add ¼ tsp ground ginger and 2-3 whole cloves.
- Optional: You can add an extra pinch of cardamom for a more authentic chai flavor.
Everything else stays the same!
3. Flavored variations
Flavor variations offer unique taste experiences for apple cider latte enthusiasts. Two popular variations I’ve perfected are:
- Apple Caramel Latte:
- Caramel syrup adds a rich sweetness
- Caramel drizzle garnishes latte surface
- Apple slice serves as an edible garnish
- Apple Cinnamon Latte:
- Cinnamon stick infuses apple cider
- Ground cinnamon dusts latte foam
- Cinnamon syrup sweetens the latte base
4. Vegan version
Vegan options cater to diverse dietary needs while maintaining the essence of this autumn latte. To create a vegan version:
- Use plant-based milk oat milk works best
- Ensure apple cider is free from honey or other animal products
- Top with vegan whipped cream or foam
5. Spiked Apple Cider Latte
For a more adult version, alcohol variation creates an indulgent beverage perfect for fall gatherings. Some options include:
- Bourbon for a rich oaky flavor
- Spiced rum for added warmth
- Apple brandy for intensified apple notes
6. Decaf Options
Decaf variations allow nighttime enjoyment without affecting sleep. You can:
- Use decaffeinated espresso or coffee
- Follow the standard recipe for the latte
- Adjust spices to compensate for milder coffee flavor
How to pair
1. Breakfast Pairings
Apple cider latte complements breakfast foods wonderfully. Some ideal pairings include:
- Pumpkin spice muffins
- Apple cinnamon oatmeal
- Maple pecan granola
2. Desserts
You can pair the drink with these desserts:
Dessert | Flavor Synergy | Presentation Tip |
Serve the latte in a clear glass to showcase layers | Classic autumn combination | Serve latte in a clear glass to showcase layers |
Caramel cheesecake | Rich creamy contrast | Dust latte and cheesecake with cinnamon |
Spiced pear tart | Complementary fruit flavors | Garnish latte with a thin pear slice |
3. Snacks
Snack pairings elevate the latte experience by providing contrasting or complementary flavors and textures. Some of my favorite snack pairings include:
- Warm spiced nuts
- Pumpkin bread
- Cheese plate featuring sharp cheddar and creamy brie