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There’s something magical about that first sip of a gingerbread latte—especially when it’s cold outside and you’re curled up under a blanket pretending your to-do list doesn’t exist. This homemade version is warm, gently spiced, and honestly… it tastes like December in a mug.

Inspired by the nostalgic Starbucks gingerbread latte (RIP to the original, we still miss you), this one brings all the cozy café vibes home—with no weird syrups or $6 price tag. Just real ingredients, warm gingerbread spices, and that creamy vanilla finish we all secretly love.

Whether you’re making it for yourself, serving it to guests, or pairing it with a batch of chewy gingerbread latte cookies, this one’s going to be your go-to hot drink recipe all winter long.

Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Latte Recipe

• Full of cozy spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg
• Super creamy and naturally sweetened (if you want)
• Ready in 10 minutes
• Tastes just like your favorite café, but made in your PJs
• Easily made dairy-free or iced if needed

Want to turn it into a vanilla gingerbread latte or even add a bit of salted caramel mocha flair? Keep reading.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Gingerbread Syrup (makes enough for a few lattes):

• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• Pinch of ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Latte:

• 1 shot espresso or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 3/4 cup milk (any kind you love—oat milk works beautifully)
• 2–3 tablespoons of the gingerbread syrup
• Optional toppings: whipped cream, a dusting of cinnamon, a drizzle of caramel mocha sauce if you’re feeling fancy

How to Make the Best Gingerbread Latte

Step 1: Make the Syrup

In a small saucepan, combine water, brown sugar (or maple), molasses, and all the spices. Bring to a gentle simmer and stir until everything’s dissolved and smells like a Christmas candle you want to drink. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Brew the Coffee

Use espresso if you’ve got it, but strong brewed coffee totally works too. Even instant espresso will do in a pinch—this recipe is about comfort, not perfection.

Step 3: Heat and Froth the Milk

Warm your milk in a saucepan or microwave, then froth using a milk frother, whisk, or a little mason jar shake-and-go moment.

Step 4: Assemble Your Latte

Pour coffee into a mug. Stir in the gingerbread syrup (start with 2 tbsp, taste, then add more if you’re feeling bold). Top with warm milk and foam. Add whipped cream and a cinnamon sprinkle if you’re going for full Pinterest latte season.

Make It Yours

Feeling festive? Here’s how to customize your mug:

• Vanilla Gingerbread Latte: add 1/2 tsp extra vanilla to the milk
• Salted Caramel Mocha twist: drizzle caramel on top and stir a tiny spoon of cocoa into the syrup
• Iced Version: pour over ice, use cold brew, and skip the frothing
• Gingerbread Latte Cookie Pairing: serve with soft, chewy cookies for the ultimate cozy combo. (Or go meta with gingerbread latte cookies that match your drink. Yes, it’s a thing.)

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can make the syrup ahead and keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. It thickens slightly when cold—just give it a stir or warm it a bit before using. Batch-prep a few mugs’ worth if you’re hosting guests or need a little boost during your December work-from-home slump.

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