Finding the perfect coffee drink to warm you up on chilly mornings can feel impossible, especially when you’re torn between wanting something cozy and homemade versus just grabbing whatever’s quickest. Most coffee shop drinks are either too sweet, too expensive, or both, and making something fancy at home seems like it would take forever when you’re already running late.
Thankfully, this honey vanilla cinnamon latte hits that sweet spot: it’s warm and comforting, takes just minutes to make with ingredients you probably already have, and tastes like something you’d pay way too much for at a fancy café.
Why You’ll Love This Honey Vanilla Cinnamon Latte
- Homemade simple syrup – Making your own honey cinnamon syrup means you control the sweetness and flavor intensity, plus it’s way more affordable than buying fancy coffee shop drinks.
- Dairy-free friendly – Using oat milk makes this latte creamy and delicious while keeping it plant-based, so everyone can enjoy it regardless of dietary preferences.
- Cozy fall flavors – The combination of honey, vanilla, and cinnamon creates that perfect warm spice blend that makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a cozy blanket.
- Quick and easy – Once you make the simple syrup, this latte comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups.
- Customizable strength – You can easily adjust the coffee intensity and sweetness to match your taste preferences, making it your perfect cup every time.
What Kind of Oat Milk Should I Use?
For this latte, you’ll want to use a creamy oat milk that froths well and has a rich texture. The recipe calls for Planet Oat Extra Creamy, which is a great choice because it has that thick, barista-style consistency that works perfectly in coffee drinks. If you can’t find that specific brand, look for oat milk labeled as “barista blend” or “extra creamy” since these are formulated to steam and froth better than regular oat milk. You can also use homemade oat milk if you prefer, just make sure it’s strained well so it’s smooth and creamy rather than gritty.
Options for Substitutions
This cozy latte is pretty adaptable to what you have in your kitchen:
- Planet Oat Extra Creamy Oatmilk: Any oat milk will work here, or you can swap in almond milk, coconut milk, or regular dairy milk. Just keep in mind that different milks will change the creaminess and flavor slightly.
- Honey: If you’re out of honey, maple syrup works beautifully and gives a nice fall flavor. You can also use agave nectar or simple sugar syrup in the same amounts.
- Espresso shots: No espresso machine? Strong cold brew coffee or even regular coffee that’s been chilled will do the trick. Use about 1/2 cup of strong coffee instead of the shots.
- Cinnamon sticks: Ground cinnamon can work in a pinch – use about 1/2 teaspoon in the simple syrup, but strain it well since it won’t dissolve completely like the sticks do.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla paste or vanilla bean works great too. If you’re feeling adventurous, try almond extract but use just 1/4 teaspoon since it’s much stronger.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Making
The biggest mistake when making this honey cinnamon latte is adding hot espresso directly to the cold oat milk, which can cause the milk to curdle and ruin the smooth texture – always let your espresso cool completely or chill it in the fridge first.
Another common error is not straining your homemade simple syrup after steeping the cinnamon sticks, leaving you with gritty bits that settle at the bottom of your drink instead of a smooth, flavorful base.
Don’t skip the ice when building your latte, as it not only keeps everything properly chilled but also helps blend all the flavors together when you give it a good stir.
For the best results, taste your latte before serving and adjust the simple syrup gradually – you can always add more sweetness, but you can’t take it away once it’s mixed in.
What to Serve With Honey Vanilla Cinnamon Latte?
This sweet and spiced latte pairs beautifully with pastries that complement its warm cinnamon and honey flavors. Try it with a buttery croissant, cinnamon roll, or even a simple piece of cinnamon toast for the perfect morning treat. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, oatmeal cookies or banana bread work really well since they won’t compete with the drink’s cozy flavors. For an afternoon pick-me-up, this latte also goes great with a slice of coffee cake or some vanilla biscotti for dipping.
Storage Instructions
Keep Fresh: Your honey cinnamon simple syrup can be stored in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. I like to make a bigger batch since it’s so good in other drinks too! The prepared latte is best enjoyed right away, but you can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours if needed.
Make Ahead: The simple syrup is perfect for making ahead – actually, it tastes even better after sitting for a day or two as the cinnamon flavor really develops. You can also brew your espresso shots and let them cool in the fridge overnight, so you’re ready to whip up your latte in the morning.
Serve: If your latte has been sitting in the fridge, just give it a good stir or shake before drinking since the ingredients might separate a bit. You can add fresh ice if it’s gotten too watery, or enjoy it as is for a more mellow coffee experience.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 20-25 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 190-240
- Protein: 2-3 g
- Fat: 3-4 g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 g
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Ingredients
For the honey cinnamon syrup:
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For assembling the drink:
- Ice, as needed
- 8 oz planet oat extra creamy oatmilk
- 1/2 tbsp honey cinnamon syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 to 2 shots chilled espresso (or extra for a stronger flavor)
Step 1: Make the Honey Cinnamon Simple Syrup
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
In a small pot, combine the honey, cinnamon sticks, and water.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
After simmering, remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Allow the syrup to cool completely, then remove the cinnamon sticks.
Store the finished syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use.
I like to make extra syrup and keep it on hand for other drinks too!
Step 2: Assemble the Iced Oatmilk Latte
- ice, as needed
- 8 oz Planet Oat Extra Creamy Oatmilk
- 1/2 tbsp honey cinnamon syrup (from Step 1, adjust to taste)
Fill a glass with ice as desired.
Pour Planet Oat Extra Creamy Oatmilk over the ice.
Add honey cinnamon simple syrup (from Step 1), adjusting to taste, and stir the mixture until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Add Espresso and Serve
- 1 to 2 shots chilled espresso (or extra for a stronger flavor)
Pour 1 to 2 shots of chilled espresso (or more for a stronger flavor) over the oatmilk and ice mixture.
Serve immediately and enjoy your iced honey cinnamon oatmilk latte!
