Dulce de Leche Latte

Name: Dulce de Leche Latte
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 9 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1-2 tablespoons dulce de leche; 1/3 cup strong-brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso; 1 cup milk*; 2 tablespoons whipped cream for garnish; 1 teaspoon dulce de leche for garnish; splash of milk to mix with the dulce de leche, for garnish

By:

dani

Published:

May 26, 2026

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Imagine curling up on a cozy afternoon with a cup of rich, creamy warmth cradled in your hands. That’s exactly what a Dulce de Leche Latte brings to your day. This delightful concoction blends the robust flavors of coffee with the sweet, caramel-like richness of dulce de leche, making it an inviting drink to sip. Whether you’re working from home, enjoying a quiet moment, or entertaining friends, this latte perfectly balances energy and indulgence in every creamy sip.

The first time I tried this latte was at a quaint little café that drew inspiration from Latin American traditions. I was captivated by how a simple touch of creamy caramel could elevate my average coffee into a truly enriching experience. This Dulce de Leche Latte is not only easy to make at home but also serves as a budget-friendly way to treat yourself to a café-quality beverage anytime you crave it. Join me in indulging your senses with this scrumptious latte—you’ll be enchanted, too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With only 9 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious drink in no time!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of strong coffee and sweet dulce de leche creates a blissful harmony that dances on your taste buds.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of dulce de leche, it’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for breakfast, afternoon pick-me-up, or dessert, it fits any time of day.
Diet-Friendly Options: This recipe can easily be adjusted for dairy-free or lower-sugar needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1-2 tablespoons dulce de leche: This sweet caramel-like sauce is the star of our latte. It adds the perfect amount of sweetness without overpowering the coffee. You can find it in most supermarkets or make your own at home if you’re feeling adventurous!
1/3 cup strong-brewed coffee or 2 shots espresso: Coffee brings that essential caffeine kick. Use your favorite blend, and if you prefer a bolder flavor, go with espresso.
1 cup milk: Whole milk or any plant-based milk—like almond, oat, or soy—works beautifully here. Opt for frothed milk to make it creamy.
2 tablespoons whipped cream for garnish: This adds a creamy finish to your latte and makes it feel super indulgent.
1 teaspoon dulce de leche for garnish: A drizzle on top elevates the visual appeal and ties in the dulce de leche flavor.
Splash of milk to mix with the dulce de leche, for garnish: This helps ensure a smooth drizzle and enhances the creamy texture.

How to Make Dulce de Leche Latte

Combine the ingredients: In your favorite mug, add 1-2 tablespoons of dulce de leche along with 1/3 cup of strong-brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso. Stir until the dulce de leche fully melts into the coffee, creating a sweet mixture.
Froth the milk: In a milk frother, froth and heat 1 cup of milk. If your frother doesn’t heat, warm the milk on the stovetop until it’s steaming, but not boiling. Pour the frothed milk gently over the coffee-dulce de leche mixture, filling the mug.
Prepare the garnish: Pop the dulce de leche into the microwave for a few seconds to warm it slightly, then mix it with a splash of milk. This makes for a drizzlable sauce.
Assemble the latte: Top your latte with a scoop or piped swirl of whipped cream. Drizzle the warmed dulce de leche over the whipped cream for that picturesque finishing touch. For a more dramatic effect, use a piping bag or a spoon for the drizzle.

Storing & Reheating

To store any leftover ingredients, keep the dulce de leche in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you’ve made extra lattes, it’s best to refrigerate the mixture in a sealed container for no more than 2-3 days. Reheat by gently warming on the stovetop while stirring to preserve the creaminess. Just remember, whipping cream doesn’t hold up well when reheated, so it’s best to top fresh each time.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the milk; keep it steaming but not boiling to prevent scalding.
If you’d like a stronger flavor, add a pinch of sea salt to the dulce de leche for a caramel-salty balance.
Use whole milk for the richest flavor, but experiment with non-dairy alternatives for a twist.
Always warm the dulce de leche before drizzling, as it helps it flow better over the whipped cream.
If you don’t have a milk frother, use a whisk to froth the milk vigorously in a mug.

As you sip on this luscious dulce de leche latte, you’ll find yourself enveloped in its creamy goodness. It’s perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy end to your day. Treat yourself to this lovely drink; your afternoon moments will not be the same again!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this latte dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute whole milk with your choice of dairy-free alternatives such as oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Just make sure to choose unsweetened options to keep the flavors balanced.

How do I make this latte sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter latte, you can increase the amount of dulce de leche to 3 tablespoons or add a dash of flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel. Taste and adjust according to your preference!

What type of coffee is best for this recipe?

Using strong coffee or espresso gives a bold flavor that complements the sweetness of the dulce de leche. If you’re using brewed coffee, choose a dark roast for the best results as it stands up nicely against the caramel notes.

Can I make a larger batch?

Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want. Ensure to adjust the ratios for milk and coffee so that every cup has that perfect balance of flavors. Enjoy sharing this creamy delight with friends and family!