If you’re craving a refreshing, creamy coffee treat that feels like a tropical vacation in a glass, this Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances the rich, nutty flavor of coconut milk with the robust kick of espresso, all sweetened just right with condensed coconut milk. Whether you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative or just want to delight your taste buds with something new, this latte brings together simple ingredients to create a luscious, icy indulgence that’s both easy and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe, you only need a handful of straightforward ingredients. Each plays an essential role—coconut milk adds smooth creaminess, sweetened condensed coconut milk provides natural sweetness, and espresso gives that bold coffee flavor that wakes you up.
- 6 fl oz (180 ml) coconut milk, plain: Using unsweetened canned coconut milk ensures a creamy base without overpowering sweetness.
- 4 tsp (20 ml) sweetened condensed coconut milk: Adds a luscious, caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the coconut milk.
- 4 fl oz (120 ml) espresso or strong coffee: A rich, intense brew is crucial for that classic latte kick; cold brew or strong brewed coffee works well too.
- ¼ tsp (1.2 ml) coconut extract: Boosts the coconut aroma and flavor to make each sip feel truly tropical.
- â…› tsp (0.6 ml) vanilla extract or vanilla paste: Adds a warm, sweet note that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Dash ground cinnamon (optional): For a little extra warmth and spice if you like a hint of complexity.
How to Make Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
Step 1: Froth Coconut Milk
Start by taking your plain coconut milk and frothing it until it’s light and airy. This step is what gives the latte its creamy texture and satisfying mouthfeel. You can use a handheld frother or whisk vigorously by hand. The goal is to create a velvety foam that will make the drink feel decadent without dairy.
Step 2: Heat Your Mixture
Next, gently warm the sweetened condensed coconut milk along with the coconut extract and vanilla until they meld together. Warming these ingredients helps the flavors blend harmoniously, creating a smooth, rich base for your latte. Don’t let it boil! Just warm until fragrant and slightly thickened.
Step 3: Brew Your Coffee
While your coconut mixture is warming, brew your espresso or strong coffee. Freshly brewed espresso is ideal for that smoky, robust punch, but if you don’t have an espresso machine, a cold brew concentrate or strong drip coffee works just as well. This coffee forms the backbone of your Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once your coconut mixture is warmed and your coffee is ready, pour the espresso into a glass filled with ice. Then slowly add the frothed coconut milk mixture on top. The contrast between the cold coffee and creamy frothed coconut milk creates a delightful layering effect and an irresistible blend of temperatures and textures.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Finally, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon over your latte to add a subtle spice that cuts through the sweetness beautifully. Give it a gentle stir or leave the layers to mingle naturally as you sip. Your delightful iced coconut milk latte is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your iced coconut milk latte from simple to sensational. Consider a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a few toasted coconut flakes for an extra crunch and visual appeal. A tiny drizzle of coconut cream on top can also amp up the tropical vibe and decadence.
Side Dishes
This latte pairs beautifully with light, fresh pastries or tropical-inspired snacks. Something like a coconut macaron, a slice of pineapple tart, or almond biscotti will complement the coconut flavor and provide a satisfying bite alongside your drink. Fresh fruit skewers with mango or papaya also make wonderful accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your iced coconut milk latte in a mason jar or a clear glass mug to showcase its beautiful layers. Add a reusable straw in a bright color or bamboo for an eco-friendly, stylish touch. You might even rim the glass with shredded coconut or sugar for a charming contrast and a more interactive sipping experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover latte mixture, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the coffee and coconut milk parts separate if possible to preserve the best flavor and texture. Give them a gentle shake or stir before recombining.
Freezing
Freezing this latte isn’t recommended because coconut milk’s texture changes when thawed and espresso can become bitter. Instead, freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays to use later in iced drinks, then prepare fresh coconut milk mixture on demand.
Reheating
If you prefer your latte warm, gently reheat the stored coconut milk mixture on the stove or microwave without boiling. Brew fresh espresso or coffee to mix in afterward. This way, the latte keeps its fresh, vibrant flavors and creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use sweetened regular coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed coconut milk?
Regular sweetened coconut milk doesn’t have the same thick, syrupy sweetness as condensed coconut milk, so your latte might be less sweet and less rich. For the best results, stick to sweetened condensed coconut milk or adjust the sweetness by adding another sweetener.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe is completely dairy-free and vegan-friendly, making it perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
What if I don’t have an espresso machine?
You can substitute strong brewed coffee or cold brew concentrate for espresso. The flavor will be a bit milder but still delicious when combined with the coconut milk and flavorings.
Can I make this latte with other plant milks?
While this recipe shines with coconut milk, you can experiment with almond, oat, or soy milk—though the distinct coconut flavor and creaminess will be less pronounced.
How do I adjust sweetness?
Feel free to tweak the amount of sweetened condensed coconut milk to suit your taste. Start with the recipe’s amount and add more if you prefer a sweeter latte.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe that makes every sip feel like a small celebration. Its beautiful blend of creamy coconut, smooth coffee, and a touch of sweetness is a winner whether you’re cooling down on a hot day or just need a cozy pick-me-up. I encourage you to give this delightful latte a try—you might find it’s soon your favorite way to enjoy your daily brew!
Print
Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This refreshing Iced Coconut Milk Latte combines creamy coconut milk with rich espresso for a smooth and delicious dairy-free coffee treat. Perfect for a quick and easy cooling beverage, it balances the natural flavors of coconut and coffee enhanced by sweetened condensed coconut milk and subtle extracts.
Ingredients
For the Latte
- 6 fl oz (180 ml) coconut milk, plain (preferably unsweetened canned coconut milk)
- 4 tsp (20 ml) sweetened condensed coconut milk
- 4 fl oz (120 ml) espresso or strong coffee (can substitute with brewed coffee or cold brew)
- ¼ tsp (1.2 ml) coconut extract
- â…› tsp (0.6 ml) vanilla extract or vanilla paste
- Dash ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Froth Coconut Milk: Pour the coconut milk into a frother or use a handheld frothing wand to create a creamy, frothy texture. This step is essential to give the latte a smooth, airy consistency.
- Heat Your Mixture: Gently warm the frothed coconut milk in a microwave or on the stovetop until it reaches a warm but not boiling temperature, enhancing the flavors and making it more comforting.
- Brew Your Coffee: Prepare a shot of espresso or brew strong coffee using your preferred method. Alternatively, cold brew can be used for an iced variant.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the warm frothed coconut milk into a glass, add the sweetened condensed coconut milk, coconut extract, and vanilla extract. Stir well to blend all flavors together.
- Add Finishing Touches: Slowly pour the freshly brewed coffee or espresso over the milk mixture. Top with a dash of ground cinnamon if desired for added aroma and presentation. Serve immediately with ice if preferred cold.
Notes
- Use unsweetened canned coconut milk for the best froth and creaminess.
- Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed coconut milk to control sweetness.
- Espresso provides the most authentic flavor, but strong brewed coffee works well as a substitute.
- Add ice cubes if you want a chilled iced latte variation.
- Ground cinnamon is optional but adds a warm, spicy note to the drink.
