Pin I stumbled on lavender lattes by accident one spring when I over-bought dried lavender for sachets and thought, why not try it in coffee? The first sip was like drinking a garden in the best possible way. It felt indulgent but calming, floral without being soapy, and I was hooked immediately. Now it's my favorite way to slow down on a hectic morning. There's something about that pale purple foam that makes everything feel a little more special.
I made this for my sister one Saturday when she was stressed about work, and she sat quietly with her mug for ten full minutes without saying a word. When she finally looked up, she just smiled and said it tasted like a hug. That's when I knew this recipe was a keeper. Since then, I've made it for friends who need comfort, for slow Sunday mornings, and even for myself on days when I just want to feel taken care of. It's become my little ritual of kindness.
Ingredients
- Dried Culinary Lavender: Make absolutely sure it's food-grade and pesticide-free, because regular craft lavender can taste bitter and harsh.
- Granulated Sugar: Dissolves quickly and evenly into the syrup, though you can swap it for honey if you prefer a deeper sweetness.
- Espresso or Strong Coffee: The bold base keeps the lavender from overwhelming the drink, so don't go too weak or it'll taste one-dimensional.
- Whole Milk: Froths beautifully and creates that creamy body, but oat milk works surprisingly well if you want a dairy-free version.
- Heavy Cream (Optional): Adds richness to the whipped foam and makes it hold its shape longer, though it's totally fine to skip.
Instructions
- Simmer the Lavender Syrup:
- Combine water, sugar, and lavender in a small saucepan and heat gently until the sugar melts and the mixture just begins to bubble. Let it steep off the heat for five minutes so the floral notes infuse without turning bitter, then strain out the flowers and let it cool completely.
- Brew Your Coffee Base:
- Pull two shots of espresso or brew a very strong coffee, then divide it between two mugs. This is your foundation, so make it good and bold.
- Steam and Sweeten the Milk:
- Warm your milk until it's steaming but not boiling, then froth it lightly with a frother or whisk. Stir a tablespoon of lavender syrup into each mug of coffee, then pour in the warm milk.
- Whip the Lavender Foam:
- In a clean bowl, combine cold milk, optional cream, and another tablespoon of syrup, then whip it with a hand frother or electric whisk until it's thick and cloud-like. This takes about a minute, and you'll know it's ready when it holds soft peaks.
- Top and Serve:
- Spoon the whipped foam generously over each latte and finish with a tiny pinch of dried lavender if you're feeling fancy. Serve immediately while it's still warm and fluffy.
Pin The first time I served this at brunch, my friend asked if I'd ordered it from a fancy cafe and hidden the cup. I laughed and showed her the syrup jar still sitting on the counter. She couldn't believe something this beautiful came together in my regular kitchen with regular ingredients. That's the magic of this latte: it feels like a secret you get to share, a small luxury that doesn't require anything but a little time and attention.
How to Store Lavender Syrup
I always make extra syrup and keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. It's perfect for sweetening iced tea, drizzling over yogurt, or adding to sparkling water when you want something floral and refreshing. Just give it a shake before using since it can settle a bit. I've even used it in cocktails, and it never disappoints.
Best Milk for Frothing
Whole milk froths the easiest and tastes the creamiest, but oat milk is my favorite dairy-free option because it whips up thick and doesn't separate. Almond milk works but tends to be thinner and less stable, so add a splash of cream if you go that route. I've tried coconut milk once and it gave the latte a tropical vibe that was surprisingly nice, though not traditional.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This latte pairs beautifully with buttery shortbread, lemon scones, or even a slice of olive oil cake. I love it alongside something simple and not too sweet so the lavender can shine. On cooler mornings, I'll add a blanket and a book, and it becomes less about the drink and more about the moment.
- Serve it in a clear glass mug so you can see the layers of foam and coffee.
- Try it iced in summer by pouring everything over ice and topping with cold whipped foam.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh lavender if you have it growing nearby for an extra touch.
Pin This latte has become my favorite way to press pause on a busy day and remind myself that small rituals matter. I hope it brings you the same kind of quiet joy it's brought me.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you make lavender syrup for the latte?
Simmer water, sugar, and dried culinary lavender until sugar dissolves, then steep and strain to get a fragrant syrup.
- → Can plant-based milk be used in this latte?
Yes, oat or almond milk work well as dairy alternatives, providing a smooth texture while keeping it vegan-friendly.
- → What’s the best way to create the whipped lavender foam?
Combine cold milk and lavender syrup, then whip with a hand frother or electric whisk until thick and fluffy for a creamy topping.
- → Is heavy cream necessary in the whipped foam?
No, heavy cream is optional and adds extra richness but can be omitted for a lighter, dairy-free version.
- → How should the espresso be prepared for this drink?
Use two shots of espresso or strong brewed coffee to maintain a robust base flavor that balances the floral notes.
- → What pairings complement this latte best?
Light pastries such as shortbread cookies or scones complement the floral and creamy flavors perfectly.