This rose vanilla latte feels like a warm hug in a mug. It’s smooth, creamy, lightly floral, and just sweet enough. I started making this when I wanted a cozy drink that felt a little special—but still easy to make at home.
No fancy equipment, just a saucepan and a few simple ingredients. Whether it’s cold outside or you just want something pretty and relaxing, this latte totally delivers.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this during a rainy afternoon when I wanted something that felt peaceful and fancy—but still low-key. This drink feels like it should be complicated, but it’s not. That’s what makes it so good.
- It smells amazing while it simmers
- You don’t need any special tools—just a small pot and whisk
- It’s got café vibes without the café price
- You can customize it super easily: dairy-free, more vanilla, less sweet—up to you
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup milk (any kind—dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 tsp dried food-grade rose petals + extra for topping
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 shot (about 1 oz) espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Fine mesh strainer
- Handheld milk frother (optional, but fun)
- Mug or latte glass
Pro Tips
- Don’t boil the milk—just warm it gently to avoid curdling or burning.
- Use food-grade rose petals only (not the ones from craft stores).
- If you like it extra floral, steep the petals longer before straining.
- A milk frother helps get that café-style foam, but a whisk works fine too.
- Want it iced? Chill the milk mixture and pour it over ice with coffee.
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk: Use oat, almond, coconut, or regular whole milk
- Sweetener: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave
- Caffeine-Free: Use decaf or skip the coffee and enjoy it as a warm floral milk
- Extra Vanilla: Add vanilla bean paste instead of extract for a richer flavor
Make Ahead Tips
Make the rose-vanilla milk base in advance, strain it, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and add coffee when you’re ready.
Servings and Time
Makes: 1 serving
Time: 10 minutes
Recipe + Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Milk and Rose Petals
In a small saucepan, add 1 cup milk and 1/2 tsp dried rose petals. Heat over low-medium heat until the milk is steamy but not boiling, about 3–5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Vanilla and Sweetener
Remove from heat. Stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla extract and 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup). Whisk to combine.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
Use a fine mesh strainer to strain the milk into a mug or small pitcher, removing the rose petals.
Step 4: Add the Coffee
Pour in 1 oz espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee. Stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Froth and Top (Optional)
Froth some milk separately (or just use a whisk), then spoon the foam on top. Sprinkle extra dried rose petals on the foam to finish.
Leftovers and Storage
Not much will be left, but if you do have extra milk base, keep it in the fridge (strained) for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add fresh coffee.
Macros (Approximate)
Based on whole milk + honey
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugar: 20g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Milk proteins stretch and trap air when heated and whisked, creating foam. Honey dissolves better in warm liquid than cold. Rose petals release essential oils when steeped, giving that light floral flavor without needing artificial stuff.
Common Mistakes
- Overheating the milk: It’ll curdle or burn. Keep it gentle.
- Skipping the straining: You’ll end up with petal bits in your drink.
- Using too much rose: It can go from “lovely” to “perfume” fast.
- Not stirring after adding espresso: The flavors don’t mix right without a stir.
What to Serve With
- Almond biscotti
- Shortbread cookies
- A piece of dark chocolate
- A soft scone with jam
FAQ
Can I make this without coffee?
Yep! Just skip it and enjoy as a rose vanilla steamer.
Do I need rose water instead of petals?
You can use a drop or two, but it’s stronger, so use less.
Can I make it iced?
Yes! Let the milk cool, then pour over ice and add cold brew.
Final Thoughts
This rose vanilla latte is one of those “wow” drinks that’s actually really simple. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep dried rose petals around all the time. Try it, make it yours, and let me know how it goes in the comments!
