This Spiced Honey Latte feels like a warm hug in a mug. It’s creamy, sweet from the honey, and full of cozy spice from cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove. All you need is coffee or espresso, milk, and a few common spices — nothing fancy.
It takes less than 10 minutes to make and tastes so much better than the sugary drinks at big coffee shops. Perfect for starting your day or relaxing on a cool afternoon, this latte always hits the spot.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup milk (any kind — whole, oat, almond, etc.)
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or 1 shot of espresso
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: extra cinnamon or nutmeg for topping
- Optional: cinnamon stick for garnish
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something really comforting about this drink. It’s simple, soothing, and hits all the right notes without being overly sweet. I started making it as a coffee shop dupe but ended up liking this homemade version even better.
- It’s warm, creamy, and full of cozy spice
- Only takes 10 minutes to make
- No fancy espresso machine needed
- Great way to use pantry staples like honey and cinnamon
- Tastes like fall in a cup but perfect year-round
Servings and Time
Makes: 1 latte
Total Time: 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup milk (any kind — whole, oat, almond, etc.)
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or 1 shot of espresso
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: extra cinnamon or nutmeg for topping
- Optional: cinnamon stick for garnish
Pro Tips
- Use freshly brewed strong coffee for a bolder flavor if you don’t have espresso
- Froth the milk by shaking it in a jar or using a milk frother if you like that café-style foam
- Adjust the honey based on how sweet you like your drinks
- Use oat milk for a naturally creamy texture
- A pinch of salt can enhance the sweetness without needing more honey
Tools Required
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Mug
- Measuring spoons
- Small ladle (optional)
- Milk frother (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap honey for maple syrup if you want a different twist
- Use decaf coffee if you want a caffeine-free version
- Add a dash of cardamom for extra warmth
- For an iced version, skip the stove and mix everything over ice
Make Ahead Tips
You can mix the milk, honey, and spices ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just heat it up when you’re ready, add coffee, and you’re set.
Recipe and Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Milk, Honey & Spices
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon honey, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk gently until the milk is warm and steamy but not boiling.
Step 2: Add Coffee
Pour in 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or 1 shot of espresso and whisk to combine everything until smooth and evenly mixed.
Step 3: Froth (Optional)
Use a milk frother, blender, or just shake in a tightly sealed jar to froth the drink if you like a foamy top.
Step 4: Pour & Garnish
Pour the spiced honey latte into your favorite mug. Sprinkle with a little cinnamon or nutmeg, and add a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy.
Leftovers and Storage
This latte is best fresh, but you can store the spiced milk base (without the coffee) in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and add fresh coffee when ready to drink.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Milk proteins stretch and trap air, creating that signature foam when heated and whisked or frothed.
- Honey’s glucose and fructose dissolve smoothly and evenly sweeten the drink without overpowering the spices.
- Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are fat-soluble, meaning they blend better when heated with milk instead of added cold.
Common Mistakes
- Don’t boil the milk — it can scald and taste burnt. Keep it just below boiling.
- Skipping the whisking makes the spices clump — always stir or whisk well.
- Using too much honey can overpower the spices. Stick to 1 tablespoon or less.
What to Serve With
- Warm banana bread or muffins
- Cinnamon rolls or toast with almond butter
- A side of fruit and yogurt for a light breakfast
- Or sip it solo for a cozy moment
FAQ
Can I make it without coffee?
Yes! Just skip the coffee and you’ve got a spiced honey milk that’s super comforting.
Can I microwave it?
You can — just heat the milk and spices in a mug until hot, then stir in the coffee.
Is this drink sweet?
It’s gently sweet — if you like it sweeter, add a little more honey to taste.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely! Just use oat or almond milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
