Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Make the Caramel Brûlée Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat.
- Cook, swirling occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color — about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and slowly whisk in cream (it’ll bubble!).
- Stir in vanilla and salt until smooth.
- Let it cool slightly, then pour into a jar.
- 💡 Pro Tip: Store leftover syrup in the fridge for up to 2 weeks — it’s great on ice cream, pancakes, or more coffee drinks!
Step 2: Brew the Coffee
- Brew your espresso or strong coffee. For maximum flavor, use dark roast or espresso beans with caramel or nutty notes.
Step 3: Steam or Froth the Milk
- Heat milk until hot but not boiling. Froth with a milk frother or whisk until creamy and airy.
Step 4: Assemble the Latte
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of caramel brûlée syrup to your mug.
- Pour in the espresso and stir well.
- Slowly add steamed milk, then spoon the froth on top.
Step 5: Garnish Like a Barista
- Top with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a sprinkle of crushed caramel candies or toffee bits for that signature brûlée flair. ✨
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Syrup: Keep refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 2 weeks. Latte: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently in the microwave.🥄 Variations
Iced Caramel Brûlée Latte: Pour espresso and syrup over ice, top with cold milk and whipped cream. Salted Caramel Twist: Add a pinch of flaky sea salt before topping. Vegan Version: Use coconut or oat milk and dairy-free cream. Caramel Mocha Brûlée: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to your espresso. Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mix over whipped cream. Holiday Edition: Add a splash of rum extract or sprinkle crushed peppermint candy. Caramel Cold Foam Version: Whisk caramel syrup with a splash of milk until frothy and layer on top. Espresso Shot Lovers: Add an extra shot for a bolder coffee kick. Honey Brûlée Latte: Mix honey into the syrup for a floral sweetness. Toffee Nut Fusion: Blend in toffee syrup for a nutty caramel depth.❓ 10 FAQs
Can I make it without espresso?Yes — just use strong brewed coffee or instant espresso powder. What’s the best milk to use?
Whole milk froths best, but oat or almond milk work great too. Can I skip the homemade syrup?
You can use store-bought caramel syrup, but homemade tastes richer. Can I make it cold?
Definitely — just pour everything over ice and skip frothing. Can I make it sugar-free?
Use sugar-free caramel syrup or substitute with monk fruit sweetener. Can I use a blender to froth milk?
Yes — blend hot milk for 10–15 seconds until foamy. Can I make a big batch of syrup?
Yes — double the recipe and store it for easy daily lattes. How do I make the brûlée topping crunchy?
Sprinkle sugar on top and lightly torch it until caramelized! Can I make it decaf?
Absolutely — use decaf espresso or instant decaf coffee. What’s the difference between this and caramel latte?
The brûlée version has deeper, toasty caramel notes and a richer, buttery finish.
