This Brown-Butter Bourbon Latte is rich, nutty, and deeply cozy. The brown butter brings a toasty caramel flavor, the bourbon (or bourbon extract if you go non-alcoholic) adds warmth, and the creamy espresso base ties it all together. It’s like a hug in a mug—comforting with just the right amount of indulgence.
🧂 What You’ll Need
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tsp bourbon or 1/2 tsp bourbon extract (non-alcoholic option)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional for garnish)
💛 Why I Love This Recipe
This latte is a little extra but in the best way. The brown butter adds a nutty depth that regular lattes just don’t have, and the bourbon (or extract) makes it taste like something you’d sip in a cozy café.
- Unique flavor that feels special and gourmet
- Smells incredible while making it
- Easily made non-alcoholic without losing taste
- Pairs perfectly with fall and winter flavors
- Comforting yet bold enough to stand out
🍽️ Servings + Time
- Serves: 1 large latte
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 10 minutes
📊 Macros (Per serving – approx., with dairy milk, bourbon extract)
- Calories: 215
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 16g
- Fat: 15g
🔬 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Browning butter causes milk solids to caramelize, creating nutty, toffee-like flavors. Mixing it with brown sugar enhances that caramel taste. Bourbon or bourbon extract adds smoky vanilla notes, which pair beautifully with espresso’s bitterness.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Burning the butter: goes from nutty to bitter quickly.
- Adding alcohol too soon: it can burn off flavor if heated directly.
- Using weak coffee: the latte will taste too sweet and flat.
- Not frothing milk: texture makes the drink café-quality.
🍴 What to Serve With
- Pumpkin bread or muffins
- Shortbread cookies
- Pecan pie slices
- Cinnamon rolls
❓ FAQ
Can I make this iced?
Yes—just pour over ice and use cold milk.
Do I have to use bourbon?
No, bourbon extract or even a splash of maple syrup works.
What’s the best milk?
Whole milk gives the creamiest froth, but oat milk froths well too.
Can I make a bigger batch?
Yes—scale up the butter-sugar mixture and store in a jar.
👨🍳 How to Make Brown-Butter Bourbon Latte
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a small saucepan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Cook until it turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 3 minutes).
Step 2: Add Sweetness and Flavor
Stir in 1 tbsp brown sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract into the browned butter. Mix until dissolved. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Mix in Bourbon
Add 1–2 tsp bourbon (or 1/2 tsp bourbon extract for non-alcoholic). Stir to combine.
Step 4: Froth the Milk
In another pot, warm 1/2 cup milk until steaming (don’t boil). Froth with a whisk or frother.
Step 5: Assemble Latte
Pour 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee (or 2 shots espresso) into a mug. Stir in the brown-butter mixture, then top with frothed milk. Garnish with a pinch of cinnamon.
