There’s something incredibly cozy about sipping a warm, spiced coffee drink on a chilly day, and this Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe does exactly that. The blend of warming spices with creamy milk and rich espresso is like a holiday hug — you’ll want to make this your go-to during the festive season and beyond.

Two clear glass mugs filled with light brown coffee topped with thick white whipped cream sprinkled with cinnamon powder sit on a white marbled surface. Each mug has three visible layers: a bottom layer of coffee, a thick middle layer of frothy milk, and a fluffy top layer of whipped cream with the cinnamon dust. Around the mugs are brown star-shaped cookies with white icing in simple patterns and dark brown pinecones scattered on the surface. A white textured cloth with cinnamon specks adds softness to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve made this Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe countless times during the holidays, and it never disappoints. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy, yet totally doable at home without fancy equipment or specialized syrups.

Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these spices in your pantry already, making it super easy to whip up.
Customizable Sweetness: You control the sugar level, so it’s perfect for everyone, from sweet tooths to those wanting just a hint of flavor.
Rapid to Make: From start to finish, it takes less than 10 minutes — ideal for busy mornings or a last-minute festive treat.
Flexible Coffee Base: No espresso machine? No problem! There’s a simple workaround using instant coffee that still tastes fantastic.

Two clear glass mugs filled with light brown hot chocolate are topped with thick white whipped cream sprinkled with a reddish-brown powder, likely cinnamon, on top. The mugs are placed on a white marbled surface surrounded by brown pinecones, star anise, and light brown star-shaped gingerbread cookies. The background has a soft, cozy winter feel with out-of-focus warm lights and white knitted fabric adding a textured layer to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe marries classic holiday spices with creamy milk and robust coffee, creating a layered, comforting drink. Shopping tip: buy fresh ground spices or whole spices to grind yourself for the most vibrant flavor.

Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl with unsweetened almond milk, two shots of dark espresso in a small white bowl, a small white bowl containing ground ginger powder, another small white bowl with ground cinnamon, a small white bowl with ground nutmeg, a small white bowl holding ground allspice, a small white bowl with granulated sugar, and a dollop of fresh whipped cream on a simple white ceramic plate, all ingredients fresh and natural, perfectly balanced and symmetrical, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Milk: I love using unsweetened almond milk for a light, nutty note, but whole milk or oat milk also make it deliciously creamy.
Espresso: Two shots bring the perfect strength; if you don’t have an espresso machine, instant coffee is a fantastic substitute.
Ground ginger: Key to that unmistakable gingerbread kick — fresh ground is best for brightness.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a sweet aroma; stick to true cinnamon instead of cinnamon sugar here.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a nutty, slightly sweet depth.
Allspice: This mysterious spice rounds out the blend with hints of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg all in one.
Sugar: Any kind you like works — white sugar, brown sugar, or even maple syrup for a twist.
Whipped cream (optional): For that extra indulgence and pretty presentation.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe is how well it lends itself to your own personal twist. I often tweak the spices or milk depending on the mood, and you can too!

Variation: Sometimes I like adding a splash of vanilla extract or swapping the sugar for honey, which gives a lovely floral sweetness that plays beautifully with the spices.
Dairy-Free Option: Almond milk works great, and I've also had great results with coconut milk for a tropical hint.
Iced Gingerbread Latte: This recipe cools perfectly over ice on warmer days — just pour your hot latte right over the ice and stir.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe

Step 1: Warm Up Your Spice Mix

First, grab a small saucepan and pour in your milk, then add the espresso, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and sugar. Set the heat to medium and gently bring everything to a simmer. Stir it frequently to let the spices bloom without sticking to the bottom — trust me, the fragrance when the spices toast in the warm milk is the first sign this is going to be amazing.

Step 2: Simmer and Stir

Once your mixture starts simmering (you’ll see little bubbles at the edges), reduce the heat to low. Keep stirring every 30 seconds. After about two minutes, it’s time to take it off the heat — this step ensures the milk doesn’t boil over and the spices have melded perfectly.

Step 3: Pour and Top

Carefully pour your latte into two mugs, dividing equally. If you want to feel fancy, add a swirl of whipped cream on top — that little touch makes it feel like a coffeehouse treat you made just for yourself.

Top Tip

In my experience, getting the balance right between spices and sweetness is the secret to nailing this Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe. Here are some tips that really helped me along the way:

Quality Espresso or Coffee: Using good quality espresso or fresh instant coffee makes a huge flavor difference. Poor coffee can overpower all the lovely spices.
Don’t Overheat the Milk: Overheating can scorch the milk and change the flavor, so keep the heat medium-low once it reaches simmer.
Freshly Ground Spices: I learned that freshly ground ginger and cinnamon give a brighter, more vibrant flavor than pre-ground, older spices.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Start with less sugar and add a little more if needed — you can always add, but you can’t take away!

How to Serve Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe

Garnishes

I usually go with a generous dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg — it makes each sip feel special. Sometimes I add a small cinnamon stick for stirring; it looks charming and slowly infuses the drink with extra warm spice.

Side Dishes

This latte pairs wonderfully with holiday cookies like snickerdoodles or ginger snaps, but I’ve also enjoyed it alongside simple buttered toast with jam for an easy breakfast treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve served this Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe in clear glass mugs and topped each with whipped cream, a cinnamon stick, and a small gingerbread cookie on the side. It adds a festive touch that guests always compliment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover gingerbread latte can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I recommend storing without whipped cream and adding fresh topping when reheating.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze this latte because milk-based drinks can separate when frozen. However, if you want to freeze, try freezing the spice mixture separately and mixing fresh milk and espresso when ready.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the latte on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to keep the creamy texture intact.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of espresso in this Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe?

Yes! While espresso gives a richer, more intense flavor, you can substitute with strong brewed coffee or instant coffee. Use about ¼ cup and adjust the milk accordingly for a balanced latte.

What’s the best type of milk to use?

I prefer unsweetened almond milk for a lighter latte, but whole milk, oat milk, or even soy milk work just fine. Choose based on your taste preference and dietary needs.

Can I make an iced version of this gingerbread latte?

Absolutely! Just prepare the latte as usual, then pour it over a glass filled with ice. It’s a refreshing twist that works beautifully on warmer days.

How long can I store leftover gingerbread latte?

You can store leftover latte in the refrigerator for up to two days in an airtight container. Reheat gently before serving, and add fresh whipped cream if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Gingerbread Latte Recipe is one of those little joys I circle back to every winter — it’s quick, comforting, and so satisfying. I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do, and maybe even keep it as your holiday tradition or a cozy anytime treat. Trust me, there’s nothing like brewing this at home, wrapping your hands around a warm mug, and savoring the delicious scents that fill your kitchen.