Happy Cappuccino Day! I’m celebrating with a French Vanilla Cappuccino – the perfect mix of creamy vanilla sweetness and bold espresso.

French Vanilla Cappuccino recipe

French Vanilla Cappuccino is a delightful version of the traditional Cappuccino. This drink combines rich espresso, steamed milk, and a generous layer of frothed milk enriched with French vanilla. Unlike regular vanilla, French vanilla creates a more complex and sophisticated flavor profile.

A cup of French vanilla cappuccino with cinnamon stick

This cappuccino mixed with French vanilla drink offers a sweet and creamy flavor profile, blending the rich essence of coffee with the smooth, gentle taste of vanilla. A hint of nutmeg adds a mild spice that enhances the sweetness. This combination gives you a more luxurious feeling than the usual coffee experience.

Here’s how to make the French vanilla cappuccino:

A cup of hot cappuccino mixed with French vanilla

French Vanilla Cappuccino

A luxurious drink that combines rich espresso with steamed milk and a delicate touch of vanilla syrup, topped with a cloud-like foam.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Course Drinks

Cuisine Italian

Servings 1

Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients

1 oz espresso
3/4 cup milk whole milk for creaminess, or substitute with almond or oat milk
1-2 tsp French vanilla syrup adjust to taste
1/2 tsp vanilla extract optional, for extra flavor
Ground cinnamon or cocoa powder optional, for garnish

Instructions

Brew a shot of espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop espresso maker. Pour into a large mug.
In a milk frother, heat and froth the milk until it’s creamy and doubled in volume. If you don't have a frother, you can heat milk in a saucepan and use a handheld frother.
Stir the French vanilla syrup and vanilla extract (if using) into the espresso.
Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon. Spoon the foam on top to create a beautiful, creamy layer.
Sprinkle with cinnamon or cocoa powder if desired. Enjoy immediately while warm.

Notes

Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less French vanilla syrup.
For an extra treat, try adding a drizzle of caramel syrup on top!

Keyword coffee recipe, French vanilla cappuccino, homemade coffee drink, homemade drink

How to pair

1. Breakfast Pairings

Light Morning Snacks:
- Granola bars
- Yogurt parfaits
- Fresh fruit plates
Sweet Breakfast Options:
- Croissants and Danish pastries
- French toast with maple syrup
- Vanilla scones
- Swedish pancakes
- Muffins
  - Cranberry orange muffins
  - Chocolate zucchini muffins
  - Paleo apple muffins
Savory Breakfast Choices:
- Quiche
- Eggs Benedict
- Breakfast sandwiches with eggs and cheese

2. Afternoon Pairings

Light Pastries:
- Macarons
- Butter cookies
- Biscotti
Sandwiches:
- Turkey and cranberry
- Chicken salad
- Grilled cheese with apple
Desserts:
- Vanilla bean cheesecake: A classic pairing that adds a creamy element to your coffee experience.
- Chocolate croissants
- Caramel bread pudding

3. Evening Pairings

After-Dinner Options:
- Tiramisu
- Crème brûlée
- Dark chocolate truffles
Light Evening Snacks:
- Shortbread cookies
- Vanilla wafers
- Chocolate-covered nuts
Dessert Pairings:
- Vanilla bean ice cream
- Apple tart
- Chocolate mousse

Variations

1. Vegan Version

Use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk.
Frothing plant-based milk: use oat milk for better frothing.

2. Ice cappuccino

Add ice cubes to the cappuccino, or
Chill it in the fridge

3. Flavored Additions: Incorporate flavors like hazelnut or butterscotch to enhance the vanilla taste.

4. Creamy Variation: Substitute part of the milk with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer texture.

Tips

Burning the Milk: Avoid letting milk burn while heating. Stir occasionally and monitor it closely to prevent scorching, which can give a bitter taste to your cappuccino.
Improper Frothing: Proper frothing is key for the creamy texture and volume in a cappuccino. Use a milk frother or blender to aerate the milk thoroughly, ensuring the right amount of foam.