There’s something magical about curling up with a warm drink as the leaves start to turn. My love for apple cider lattes began on a crisp October morning when I decided to spike my usual espresso with a splash of spiced cider—and wow, was it a game-changer! This cozy combo brings together the rich depth of coffee with the sweet, cinnamon-kissed comfort of apple cider. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire or sneaking a moment of calm before the school run, this drink tastes like fall in a mug. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Latte
This isn’t just another basic latte—it’s a hug in a mug that’ll make your fall mornings (or afternoons, no judgment) so much cozier. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:
- Effortless to whip up – Ready in under 10 minutes with just a saucepan and your favorite mug
- The ultimate flavor combo – Rich espresso and spiced cider create magic you can’t get from pumpkin spice alone
- Totally customizable – Swap milks, adjust sweetness, or spike it with bourbon if you’re feeling fancy
- Smells like autumn – That cinnamon-vanilla aroma will make your whole kitchen feel like a cozy café
Apple Cider Latte Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the coziest apple cider latte—measurements matter, but don’t stress about perfection!
- 1 cup apple cider (not boiled—just warmed gently)
- 1 shot espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee if you’re in a pinch)
- ½ cup milk (whole milk for richness, but any kind works)
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, but it deepens the flavor)
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (the star of the show)
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract (trust me, it’s worth it)
- Whipped cream (because why not?)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Espresso shortcuts: No machine? Use strongly brewed coffee—just double the strength you’d normally make. Milk swaps: Oat milk froths beautifully, or go coconut for a tropical twist. Sweetness hack: Maple syrup works instead of brown sugar if you love that caramel vibe. And if your cider is already spiced? Skip the extra cinnamon (unless you’re a spice fiend like me).
How to Make an Apple Cider Latte
Making this cozy drink is as simple as stirring sunshine into your morning—just follow these easy steps. The secret? Don’t rush the cider warming (boiling kills the flavor) and get that milk perfectly foamy. I’ve burned one too many batches of cider in my excitement, so learn from my mistakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Warm the cider gently – Pour cider into a small saucepan over medium-low heat. You’ll know it’s ready when steam rises and tiny bubbles form at the edges (about 3-4 minutes). No boiling—that makes it taste dull!
- Brew your espresso – While the cider heats, pull a fresh shot or make strong coffee. Stale coffee = sad latte.
- Froth the milk – Heat milk until warm (not scalding), then froth until it’s silky with tiny bubbles. No fancy tools? A whisk and some elbow grease work too!
- Mix the magic – In your favorite mug, combine warm cider, espresso, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Top it off – Slowly pour frothed milk over the back of a spoon to create that beautiful layered effect. Crown it with whipped cream and a cinnamon sprinkle if you’re feeling extra.
See? No barista skills required—just patience and a love for fall flavors. Now go wrap your hands around that mug and savor!
Tips for the Perfect Apple Cider Latte
Want to take your apple cider latte from good to wow? Here are my hard-earned secrets after many (many) test batches:
- Low and slow wins the race – Keep your cider at a gentle simmer, not a boil, to preserve that bright apple flavor.
- Foam like a pro – Heat milk to just below boiling (around 150°F) before frothing for the creamiest texture.
- Spice it your way – Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove with the cinnamon if you love bold flavors.
- Prep ahead smartly – Warm the cider first, then brew espresso—that way both stay hot when mixing.
Apple Cider Latte Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these fun twists to keep things interesting—I promise your taste buds will thank you!
- Spiced-up version: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for extra warmth
- Caramel dream: Swap brown sugar for 1 tbsp caramel syrup and drizzle extra on top
- Iced autumn treat: Chill all ingredients, pour over ice, and shake like a cocktail for a refreshing twist
My personal favorite? A splash of bourbon turns it into the perfect after-dinner nightcap when the weather gets chilly. For more cozy drink ideas, check out our slow cooker pumpkin spice latte recipe.
Serving & Storing Your Apple Cider Latte
Serve this beauty immediately in your coziest mug—the whipped cream melts just right when it’s piping hot! Leftovers? (Unlikely, but hey.) Store any extra cider-coffee mix in the fridge for 24 hours max. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of fresh milk to revive that creamy texture.
Apple Cider Latte FAQs
Got questions about making the perfect apple cider latte? I’ve spilled the beans (and a few mugs) testing all the variables—here are the answers you need:
Can I make this without espresso? Absolutely! Just use ½ cup of extra-strong brewed coffee. Pro tip: Cold brew concentrate works wonders too—just heat it gently.
How do I make it vegan? Easy-peasy—swap dairy milk for oat or almond milk, skip the whipped cream or use coconut cream, and check that your cider’s brand is plant-based.
Is bottled apple juice okay instead of cider? It’ll work in a pinch, but you’ll miss that rich, spiced depth. If you must, simmer juice with extra cinnamon first. For more fall-inspired recipes, you might enjoy our Dutch apple pie.
Can I prep this ahead for guests? Mix the cider and coffee base (without milk) up to a day ahead—just reheat gently and add freshly frothed milk before serving.
Why does my milk foam collapse? You might be overheating it—aim for warm, not hot. And always froth right before pouring for that Instagram-worthy foam.
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind—these numbers are rough estimates that can change based on your ingredients. Using whole milk instead of almond? Adding extra whipped cream? Your latte might be slightly higher in calories and fat, but oh-so-worth-it!
Apple Cider Latte
A warm and comforting apple cider latte perfect for fall. This drink combines spiced apple cider with espresso for a cozy twist.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 shot espresso (or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Heat apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
- Brew espresso or strong coffee.
- Froth milk using a frother or whisk until slightly foamy.
- Mix warm apple cider, espresso, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a mug.
- Top with frothed milk.
- Add whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
- Use dairy-free milk for a vegan version.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
