If you have a soft spot for rich coffee drinks with a tropical twist, this Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. This delightful beverage balances the creamy sweetness of coconut milk with the bold depth of espresso, creating a refreshingly smooth latte that’s perfect for warm days or whenever you crave a bit of sunshine in your cup. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe combines a few simple ingredients that come together to make an irresistibly cool treat that comforts and energizes all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started is a breeze with just a handful of ingredients, each chosen to bring unique flavor, texture, and a beautiful creamy finish to your iced latte. The magic lies in their harmony, transforming everyday pantry staples into a luscious tropical delight.
- 6 fl oz (180 ml) coconut milk: The creamy base that adds richness and a subtle nutty sweetness perfect for a dairy-free twist.
- 4 tsp (20 ml) sweetened condensed coconut milk: This ingredient lends a velvety sweetness that perfectly balances the bitterness of coffee.
- 4 fl oz (120 ml) espresso or strong coffee: The bold heart of your latte; espresso is ideal for its intensity, but brew or cold brew works just fine.
- ¼ tsp (1.2 ml) coconut extract: Enhances the coconut flavor for a luscious, tropical aroma.
- â…› tsp (0.6 ml) vanilla extract or vanilla paste: Adds a warm, aromatic note that deepens the overall taste.
- Dash of ground cinnamon (optional): A gentle spice sprinkle for an extra cozy finish, if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Make Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
Step 1: Froth Coconut Milk
Start by frothing the coconut milk to get that lovely light and creamy texture that turns this latte from simple to sublime. Using a milk frother or shaking the milk in a tightly sealed jar vigorously will introduce the airy foam that feels like a cloud in every sip. This step really elevates the mouthfeel and brings barista-level sophistication to your home brew.
Step 2: Heat Your Mixture
Next, gently warm the sweetened condensed coconut milk along with the frothed coconut milk, coconut extract, and vanilla. Warming them just enough allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, melding coconut sweetness with fragrant vanilla notes. Be careful not to overheat to preserve the delicate flavors and avoid curdling.
Step 3: Brew Your Coffee
While your coconut mixture is warming, brew your espresso or strong coffee. If you’re short on an espresso machine, a robust brewed coffee or smooth cold brew works brilliantly too, ensuring that bold coffee kick we all love in a latte. Freshly brewed coffee adds a fresh, vibrant character that’s essential for this recipe.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour your freshly brewed coffee over ice in your favorite glass, then add the warm coconut milk mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, letting the creamy coconut blend swirl beautifully with the dark espresso. This captivating mix of cold coffee and silky coconut delivers a visually stunning layered effect that tastes even better than it looks.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
To finish, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon on top if you like your latte with a touch of warmth and spice. It’s optional but recommended for a cozy hint that complements the coconut and coffee notes perfectly. You now have a stunning glass of iced coconut milk latte ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your iced coconut milk latte isn’t just for looks—it’s a chance to elevate your drinking experience. A light dusting of cinnamon adds a subtle warmth, while a small coconut flake sprinkle or a twist of citrus zest can add texture and an extra boost of fresh aroma. Personally, a touch of toasted coconut flakes never fails to impress and infuses a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
This refreshing and indulgent latte pairs wonderfully with light, tropical-inspired snacks. Try it alongside coconut macaroons or a buttery shortbread cookie for a treat that feels like a mini tropical escape. Fresh fruit, such as pineapple or mango slices, also complements the coconut flavor profile beautifully, rounding out your coffee break with healthy brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is part of the fun! Serve your iced coconut milk latte in a clear glass to showcase its luscious layers, or get creative with a mason jar for a rustic vibe. Add a reusable straw for eco-friendly charm and a sprig of fresh mint for color contrast. If you want to impress guests, layer the espresso last and carefully pour to keep the layers distinct. This small effort turns your latte into a visual delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some leftover iced coconut milk latte, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Giving it a gentle stir before serving will help restore its smooth texture, though the foam may diminish over time. It’s best enjoyed fresh but can hold up well for a quick next-day treat.
Freezing
Freezing this latte is not recommended because coconut milk’s texture can change when frozen, often becoming grainy or separating. The espresso’s flavor can also dull after thawing. For best taste and texture, enjoy the recipe fresh or refrigerated within a day.
Reheating
If you want a warm coffee version, simply heat the refrigerated latte gently on the stove or microwave, stirring often. Be cautious with heat to preserve the delicate coconut flavor and avoid separation. Reheating transforms it into a cozy warm coconut latte that comforts just as beautifully as the iced one.
FAQs
Can I use other types of milk instead of coconut milk?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with coconut milk’s creamy richness and tropical flair, you can substitute with almond, oat, or soy milk—but the flavor will differ. Coconut milk provides that signature depth and sweetness that sets this iced latte apart.
Is sweetened condensed coconut milk necessary?
Sweetened condensed coconut milk adds both sweetness and a lovely creamy thickness to the latte. You could try regular sweetened condensed milk or a natural sweetener, but coconut condensed milk keeps the tropical vibe authentic.
What’s the best type of coffee to use?
Espresso is ideal since it packs a strong, concentrated flavor that balances out the coconut richness. That said, strong brewed coffee or cold brew are great alternatives when espresso isn’t available, just make sure the coffee is robust enough to hold its own.
Can I make this drink vegan?
Yes! By using unsweetened canned coconut milk and sweetened condensed coconut milk (which is often vegan), this iced coconut milk latte recipe is naturally plant-based and vegan-friendly. Just watch the ingredients on your sweetened condensed milk to ensure no dairy is included.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
You can tweak the amount of sweetened condensed coconut milk to suit your taste. For a less sweet latte, reduce it slightly or substitute a low-calorie sweetener. The balance of creamy coconut and bold coffee lets you customize without losing the core deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
This Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe is a true delight that brings together the best of tropical creaminess and robust coffee in one refreshing drink. Easy to make and endlessly satisfying, it’s the perfect way to treat yourself or impress friends with a café-quality beverage at home. Go ahead, give it a try—you might just find this becoming your new everyday indulgence, brightening your mornings and lifting your spirits with every sip.
Print
Iced Coconut Milk Latte Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This refreshing Iced Coconut Milk Latte combines creamy coconut milk with the rich flavors of espresso, offering a dairy-free, tropical twist on the classic iced latte. Perfect for a quick, flavorful coffee treat with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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: Begin by frothing the plain coconut milk using a milk frother or by vigorously whisking it until it becomes light and slightly foamy, which will enhance the texture of your latte.
- Heat Your Mixture: Gently warm the sweetened condensed coconut milk along with the frothed coconut milk on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to combine thoroughly without boiling.
- Brew Your Coffee: Prepare a fresh 4 fl oz (120 ml) shot of espresso or strong coffee. Alternatively, use brewed coffee or cold brew if preferred.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the brewed coffee into a glass filled with ice. Slowly add the warmed coconut milk mixture to the coffee, allowing the layers to mix beautifully.
- Add Finishing Touches: Stir in the coconut extract and vanilla extract or vanilla paste for fragrant flavoring. Optionally, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon on top for a hint of spice before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter latte, adjust the amount of sweetened condensed coconut milk to taste.
- If you don’t have a frother, shake the coconut milk vigorously in a sealed jar to create foam.
- Use cold brew coffee if you prefer a less acidic coffee base for this latte.
- Opt for unsweetened canned coconut milk to control sweetness and richness better.
- Add ice to make the drink chilled and refreshing, perfect for warm weather.
