
Vanilla Latte
Global • Vegetarian
How to Make Vanilla Latte (Traditional & Healthy Version)
The Vanilla Latte has been embraced as a beloved beverage across India, especially among the urban youth and coffee aficionados. While coffee itself has deep roots in South Indian culture, the Vanilla Latte offers a delightful fusion of robust Indian coffee and aromatic vanilla, making it a comforting choice for all seasons. Its creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect companion during monsoon mornings or as an indulgent treat at festive gatherings. In recent years, cafes in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi have popularized this drink, often adding their own regional twists with spices like elaichi (cardamom) or jaiphal (nutmeg). A Vanilla Latte is not just a beverage; it’s a celebration of flavor and warmth. With the increasing trend of health-conscious choices, Indians now prefer lighter versions using low-fat doodh (milk) or plant-based options. This drink is often enjoyed during Diwali get-togethers, Raksha Bandhan breakfasts, or casual evening chats. The addition of vanilla essence brings a fragrant, soothing element, making it a favorite during winter and festive months. Whether sipped slowly while reading or served to guests at a family function, the Vanilla Latte captures the spirit of contemporary Indian hospitality. Making a healthy Vanilla Latte at home allows you to control the ingredients and portion size, ensuring it fits perfectly into your calorie tracking goals. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy an authentic, flavorful, and nutritious beverage without compromising on taste.
Ingredients(for 1 tall cup (approx. 200 ml) per serving)
- 1/2 cup Freshly brewed Indian coffee decoction (South Indian filter kaapi)
- 1 1/2 cups Low-fat doodh (milk) (can use toned milk)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla essence (extract preferred)
- 2 teaspoons Stevia or coconut sugar (shakkar for natural sweetener) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon powder (dalchini) (for garnish) - optional
- a pinch Cardamom powder (elaichi) (optional for flavor twist) - optional
- 4-6 Ice cubes (optional for iced latte) - optional
- 1 1/2 cups Almond milk (vegan alternative) - optional
- a pinch Nutmeg powder (jaiphal) (optional festive aroma) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare a strong coffee decoction using a South Indian filter or French press. Use freshly ground coffee beans for optimal flavor.
5 minutes
Let the decoction rest for a few minutes for the flavors to intensify.
- 2
Heat the low-fat doodh in a saucepan over medium flame until it begins to steam but does not boil.
5 minutes
Whisk the milk gently to create foam for a café-style finish.
- 3
Add vanilla essence and stevia/coconut sugar to the hot milk. Stir thoroughly to blend the flavors.
2 minutes
Adjust sweetness as per taste; natural sweeteners are ideal for calorie control.
- 4
Pour the coffee decoction into the milk mixture. Mix well and continue heating on low flame for another 2 minutes.
2 minutes
Do not let the mixture boil; gentle heating preserves aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing low-fat milk or almond milk reduces saturated fat and calories, making this Vanilla Latte a heart-healthy option. Natural sweeteners and spices support metabolic health and add micronutrients. It’s an ideal beverage for those tracking macros, as it offers energy and satiety without excessive calories. Customizing the ingredients allows for further adaptation to meet dietary preferences and health goals.
This Vanilla Latte is a balanced beverage providing protein from doodh, moderate carbs from milk and natural sweeteners, and minimal fat when using low-fat or plant-based milk. It contains calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidants from coffee. The addition of spices like cinnamon and cardamom adds anti-inflammatory benefits. Using stevia or coconut sugar helps keep the glycemic index low, making it suitable for calorie and sugar-conscious diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly brewed South Indian filter coffee for authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Whisk the milk well to create a café-style froth.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust sweetness and spices to suit your regional palate and dietary needs.
Storage & Serving
Best enjoyed fresh. Can be stored in a refrigerator for up to 24 hours; reheat gently before serving. Iced version can be stored for 1 day.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |





