This Iced Dulce de Leche Latte is a delightful blend of rich espresso, creamy milk, and the sweet, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche. Perfect for hot summer days, this beverage offers a refreshing twist on your regular coffee routine. The addition of sweetened condensed milk enhances its sweetness, while optional coffee ice cubes provide an extra caffeine kick. Whether you’re a caramel lover or seeking a new iced coffee experience, this latte is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Coffee Ice Cubes (Optional):
- 2 cups brewed coffee
- Dulce de Leche Iced Latte:
- 3-4 coffee ice cubes (optional)
- 1-2 tablespoons dulce de leche
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or your choice)
- 1 shot espresso
- 1-2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Directions
- Prepare Coffee Ice Cubes (Optional):
- Brew 2 cups of coffee and let it cool.
- Pour the cooled coffee into an ice cube tray and freeze overnight.
- Assemble the Latte:
- In a tall glass, add 1-2 tablespoons of dulce de leche.
- Add 3-4 coffee ice cubes (or regular ice cubes) to the glass.
- Pour ½ cup of milk over the ice and stir to combine with the dulce de leche.
- Pour 1 shot of espresso over the milk mixture.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Garnish:
- In a small bowl, mix 1-2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk with 1 teaspoon of crushed peppermint candies (if using).
- Drizzle the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the top of the latte.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Iced Dulce de Leche Latte!
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 138 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 21mg
- Sodium: 73mg
- Potassium: 280mg
- Sugar: 17g
- Vitamin A: 251 IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 208mg
- Iron: 0.04mg
The Origins of Dulce de Leche and Its Role in Coffee Culture
Dulce de leche, which translates to “sweetened milk,” has been a beloved treat in many cultures for centuries. Originating from Latin America, it is made by simmering sweetened condensed milk until it caramelizes into a rich, golden syrup. This decadent creation is frequently used in desserts, but its versatility makes it a perfect addition to beverages as well. In the case of the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte, this syrup takes the place of regular sweeteners like sugar or flavored syrups, giving the drink an extra layer of depth and richness.
Dulce de leche’s popularity has spread across the globe, from being a staple in Argentina and Mexico to making its way into kitchens in the United States and beyond. The combination of dulce de leche with coffee is a natural fit, as the syrup enhances the inherent flavors of coffee with its sweet, caramel-like taste. Whether drizzled over espresso, stirred into lattes, or even used in iced coffee, dulce de leche brings an irresistible sweetness that balances the bitterness of coffee. Its smooth texture also adds a creamy richness to the drink, making every sip a luxurious experience.
The Appeal of the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte
What sets the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte apart from other coffee drinks is its unique flavor profile. While many iced coffees rely on vanilla or caramel syrup to add sweetness, the use of dulce de leche offers a distinct taste that is both creamy and caramel-like, without being overwhelmingly sweet. This balance of flavors is perfect for coffee lovers who want a rich, indulgent beverage that still highlights the boldness of espresso.
The drink’s versatility is also one of its biggest appeals. You can customize it to suit your personal preferences—whether you like your coffee strong or mild, whether you prefer a dairy-free alternative, or if you want to add extra flavor with a dash of cinnamon or crushed peppermint. For those looking for a bit of extra caffeine, the addition of coffee ice cubes enhances the overall strength of the drink. The coffee ice cubes not only chill the latte but also intensify the flavor as they slowly melt.
The Iced Dulce de Leche Latte is perfect for a variety of occasions. It can be served as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up, a sweet treat after dinner, or even as an indulgent breakfast option when paired with a pastry or croissant. Its combination of caffeine and sweetness makes it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and an excellent choice for those who enjoy a sophisticated coffee beverage with a touch of luxury.
Why You Should Try Making It at Home
While the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte is commonly found in cafes and coffee shops, making it at home offers several advantages. First and foremost, it gives you full control over the ingredients, allowing you to adjust the sweetness, milk type, and coffee strength to your liking. If you prefer your lattes a little sweeter or want to try a different milk alternative like oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk, making it at home lets you experiment with the drink until you find the perfect combination for your tastes.
Additionally, preparing this drink at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re brewing your espresso shot with a high-end espresso machine or using a simpler method like a stovetop espresso maker, creating a coffeehouse-quality drink at home can feel like an accomplishment. Plus, it’s a more affordable option compared to buying iced lattes from cafes regularly.
For those who enjoy the ritual of making coffee, preparing the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte can be a relaxing and enjoyable process. Brewing fresh coffee, mixing the dulce de leche, and adding your milk of choice allows you to craft a personal coffee experience. You can even get creative by experimenting with different flavor additions like cinnamon, vanilla, or a splash of flavored syrup to give your iced latte a unique twist.
Health Benefits and Considerations
While the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte is a deliciously indulgent treat, it also offers some health benefits, particularly from the coffee and milk components. Coffee itself is packed with antioxidants, which can help fight inflammation and protect against certain diseases. It has also been linked to improved mental alertness, better cognitive function, and even reduced risk of certain chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes and Parkinson’s disease.
Milk, which is often used in the preparation of this latte, provides essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins D and B12, which are important for bone health and overall well-being. If you choose to make the drink with dairy-free milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, you still get a creamy texture while reducing the amount of saturated fat found in whole milk. Keep in mind, however, that the drink does contain added sugar in the form of dulce de leche and sweetened condensed milk, so it should be enjoyed in moderation as a special treat rather than an everyday beverage.
For those who are more health-conscious, it’s easy to customize the recipe to make it a little lighter. You can reduce the amount of dulce de leche or sweetened condensed milk to lower the sugar content, or opt for a sugar-free version of dulce de leche. Additionally, using a non-dairy milk alternative can further cut down on the fat content. This way, you can enjoy the creamy, flavorful coffee experience while keeping it in line with your dietary preferences.
Pairing the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte with Food
The Iced Dulce de Leche Latte pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods, making it a versatile drink for any occasion. For a simple and classic pairing, serve it with a freshly baked croissant, scone, or pastry. The richness of the coffee and dulce de leche complements the buttery, flaky texture of these baked goods, creating a satisfying and indulgent breakfast or brunch experience.
If you’re hosting a gathering, the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte also makes an excellent accompaniment to desserts. Pair it with chocolate-based desserts like brownies, chocolate cake, or tiramisu. The smooth, caramel-like sweetness of the drink enhances the flavors of chocolate, making for a delightful contrast between bitter and sweet.
For a lighter pairing, consider serving the Iced Dulce de Leche Latte with a fruit tart, cheesecake, or a fruit salad. The subtle sweetness of the latte balances well with the tanginess of the fruit, creating a refreshing and satisfying combination. It also pairs nicely with light snacks like almonds, popcorn, or a slice of toasted bread with jam.
Conclusion
The Iced Dulce de Leche Latte is more than just a coffee drink—it’s an experience that brings together the boldness of espresso and the sweet, creamy richness of dulce de leche. This beverage is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving a refreshing treat on a hot day or want to enjoy a luxurious coffee experience at home.