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Spanish Latte

A Spanish latte combines rich espresso with sweetened condensed milk and velvety steamed milk, creating an indulgent coffee drink that tastes like it came from a Madrid café. Ready in just 5 minutes with only three main ingredients.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Spanish
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 shot espresso 1 oz or 30 ml
  • 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 4 oz whole milk 120 ml
  • Small pinch of salt optional, enhances sweetness

Equipment

  • Espresso machine or Moka pot
  • 8 oz coffee mug or glass
  • Small saucepan or milk frother
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Start your espresso machine or moka pot and pull one shot of espresso into your mug. You want about 1 oz of liquid, strong and dark, which takes 25 to 30 seconds on a machine.
  2. Pour 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk directly into the hot espresso. The heat will help thin it out and distribute it evenly throughout the cup.
  3. Stir the espresso and condensed milk together for about 30 seconds until they're fully combined. You should see the mixture turn a warm caramel color as the milk dissolves into the coffee.
  4. Pour 4 oz of whole milk into a small saucepan or pitcher and heat it over medium heat until it steams gently, about 1 to 2 minutes. You're looking for small bubbles forming around the edges, not a rolling boil.
  5. If you have a frother, use it now to create a layer of micro-foam on top of your milk. If you don't have one, you can achieve a similar effect by whisking the milk vigorously for 30 seconds once it's heated.
  6. Slowly pour the hot milk into the mug with the espresso and condensed milk mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon. This pouring technique blends everything together gradually rather than creating a harsh mix.
  7. Use your spoon to guide any remaining foam from the pitcher onto the top of your drink. A thick layer of foam adds texture and keeps your drink hot longer.
  8. If using, sprinkle just a tiny pinch of salt onto the foam or into the drink. The salt doesn't make it salty but rather heightens the sweetness and depth of flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Use whole milk for best texture and creaminess. Add condensed milk to hot espresso first so it dissolves completely. The drink is best enjoyed fresh and doesn't store well. If you don't have an espresso machine, brew 1.5 oz of very strong coffee using a moka pot or double-strength pour-over.