If you love strawberries, lattes, and dessert vibes in a cup—this Strawberry Shortcake Latte is about to be your new obsession. It’s sweet, creamy, a little fruity, and has just enough coffee to feel like a treat.
You can make it hot or iced, and it tastes just like strawberry shortcake, but in a cozy latte version. Let’s get into it.
Why I Love This Recipe
I first made this on a chilly weekend when I wanted something cozy, but sweeter than a regular latte. This latte hit every note: warm, creamy, a little tangy from the strawberries, and it smelled like dessert. I’ve been hooked ever since.
- It’s like drinking dessert—but in latte form
- You can make it hot or iced
- Real strawberries = real flavor
- Super pretty to serve guests
- Feels fancy but takes 10 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 3 fresh strawberries, diced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk (whole or oat milk works best)
- ¼ cup strong brewed coffee or 1 shot espresso
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream (optional)
- 1 tablespoon crushed graham crackers (optional topping)
- Extra diced strawberries for topping
- Optional: 1 teaspoon strawberry syrup or jam for stronger flavor
Servings & Cook Time
Makes: 1 latte
Time: 10 minutes
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon
- Milk frother or whisk
- Mug or heat-safe glass
- Small strainer (optional, for smoother syrup)
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries for the best flavor
- Don’t boil the strawberry mixture—just simmer it
- Froth the milk separately for a café-style finish
- Crushed graham cracker gives the shortcake crunch on top
- Add strawberry syrup for extra color and sweetness
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap strawberries with raspberries or blueberries
- Use almond, oat, or coconut milk
- Skip the coffee and make it a steamer
- Add vanilla protein powder to the milk for a boost
- Make it iced by cooling the strawberry mix and using cold milk + ice
Make Ahead Tips
- Cook the strawberry base ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Brew your coffee in advance and chill it if making an iced version
Let’s Make It!
Step 1: Cook the Strawberries
Add 3 diced strawberries, 1 tbsp sugar, and ½ tsp vanilla to a small saucepan over low heat. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until soft and syrupy. Don’t let it boil.
Step 2: Blend or Mash
Once soft, mash the strawberry mixture with a spoon or blend briefly for a smoother syrup.
Step 3: Heat & Froth the Milk
Heat ¾ cup milk in a clean saucepan until warm (don’t boil). Froth with a whisk or milk frother until light and foamy.
Step 4: Add Strawberry Syrup to Mug
Spoon the strawberry syrup into the bottom of your mug.
Step 5: Add Coffee
Pour in ¼ cup brewed coffee or a shot of espresso over the strawberry syrup.
Step 6: Add Milk
Pour in your hot frothy milk and give it a little stir to blend everything.
Step 7: Top & Serve
Add whipped cream, crushed graham crackers, and extra diced strawberries on top. Optional: drizzle with a little strawberry syrup.
Leftovers & Storage
- Best enjoyed fresh
- You can store the strawberry syrup separately in the fridge for 2–3 days
- Reheat milk and coffee fresh for each cup
Macros (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Carbs: 28g
Sugar: 22g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- The sugar helps break down strawberries fast, pulling out their juices
- Frothing milk adds air, which gives that creamy, luxurious texture
- Layering syrup first lets the flavors build upward in the cup
Common Mistakes
- Boiling the milk – makes it separate
- Using underripe berries – not sweet enough
- Skipping the stir – you’ll get all syrup at the bottom
- Using weak coffee – flavor will get lost
What to Serve With
- Buttery scones
- A slice of pound cake
- Strawberry yogurt parfait
- Fresh toast with cream cheese
FAQ
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, thaw first and drain a bit of the extra liquid.
Can I make this without coffee?
Totally—just skip the coffee and it becomes a strawberry steamer.
Is it good iced?
Yes! Chill the syrup and coffee, use cold milk, and pour over ice.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Shortcake Latte is sweet, simple, and way better than any coffee shop version. It’s cozy, creamy, and feels like a treat without being complicated. Try it out, and when you do, let me know how it turned out or if you changed anything—I love hearing your ideas!
