Spanish Latte and Everything About It | How to Make, Tips | 2023
Halime Yılmaz
11/27/2023
If you can’t spend a day without a cup of coffee, you may have heard of the Spanish Latte.
Spaniards and Latin Americans are huge fans of this classic Spanish drink. It’s one of the many types of lattes that can be found around the world.
When you go to a cafe and ask for a cup of Spanish Latte, you will probably get a drink that combines espresso with milk and condensed milk. If you want the same drink at a coffee shop in another country, you may have to ask for Vietnamese Coffee or Café Bombón.
So, what is Spanish Latte, and how is it different from other drinks?
Here's how to make Spanish latte, Spanish latte history, why they're popular in some places, Spanish latte calories, cold Spanish latte, and where they fit on the lists of specialty coffee shops around the world.
Let’s get started.
What is a Spanish Latte?
The Spanish latte is an adaptation of the coffee drink known as café con leche, which literally means "coffee with milk" in English.
So-called "Spanish lattes" are apparently meaningless to a barista in Spain. So be smart and stick with the local language instead.
Anyway, language differences aside, a café con leche in Spain is a mixture of strong espresso coffee and scalded (or warmed) milk in nearly equal parts.
The café with leche was originally a Spanish coffee drink sweetened with condensed milk, although the drink is now popular outside Spain.
Enjoyed this? Then read Everything About Drip Coffee
History of the Spanish Latte
The Spanish Latte is a popular coffee that has its roots in Spain.
It is a variation of the traditional latte, but with a unique twist.
While the exact origin of the Spanish Latte is unclear, it gained popularity in the late 20th century and has since become a popular drink in many coffee shops and cafes around the world.
The drink's rise in popularity can be attributed to Spain's strong coffee culture and the country's fondness for sweet and indulgent treats. Spanish cafes and coffee shops started offering this variation of the latte for customers who preferred a sweeter and richer coffee experience.
Other international coffee varieties have also influenced the Spanish Latte.
For example, the Vietnamese Ca Phe Sua Da, which consists of coffee, condensed milk, and ice, may have played a role in inspiring the Spanish Latte. The similarities between the two drinks, particularly the use of condensed milk, suggest a possible connection.
In recent years, the Spanish Latte is popular outside of Spain, with coffee shops around the world incorporating it into their menus. It has become a trendy and Instagram-worthy drink, often garnished with cocoa powder or cinnamon for added flavor and presentation.
For instance, The Spanish Latte has gained popularity in Saudi Arabia.
According to Foodex Saudi, an international trade exhibition focused on the local food and beverage industry, the hot drink sector in the country was worth $2723.1 million in 2017.
Looking for a nice Spanish Latte in Dubai? Contact us now!
Variations on the Spanish Latte
- Cold Spanish Latte: Instead of serving it hot, prepare your Spanish Latte over ice for a refreshing and chilled version of the drink. You can see the iced spanish latte recipe above.
- Vegan Spanish Latte: Use plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of dairy milk to make a vegan-friendly version of the Spanish Latte.
- Mocha Spanish Latte: Add a touch of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder to the Spanish Latte for a delicious mocha-flavored variation.
How to Make Spanish Latte (Step-By-Step)
So how to make Spanish latte? Making this spanish latte at home is a quick and easy process. It takes around 5-10 minutes.
Here’s a Spanish Latte recipe for you (For iced spanish latte, you can also use this recipe):
Perfect Spanish Latte Ingredients
2 shots of espresso 1/2 cup of milk 15 grams of Traum coffee beans 4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk Espresso machine, stovetop espresso maker, or Aeropress
Iced Spanish Latte Ingredients
- Ice cubes
Step 1
To make a perfect Spanish latte, activate your espresso machine and ensure that you extract a shot of espresso using robust coffee.
Use a conical burr grinder to freshly grind your coffee beans.
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Step 2
While the espresso is in the brewing process, take a steaming pitcher and pour approximately half a cup of your preferred milk into it.
Use a steaming wand to create warm and frothy milk.
If your coffee machine lacks a built-in steaming wand, don't worry; there are alternative methods to generate milk foam.
Step 3
Next, carefully pour the freshly brewed espresso into a mug.
Subsequently, add the velvety and hot frothed milk on top of the espresso.
Step 4
To add a touch of sweetness to your coffee, gently stir in a drizzle of condensed milk or add one to two teaspoons of sugar.
Step 5
Enjoy your perfect Spanish latte!
Spanish Latte Quick Tips
Here are some valuable quick tips to enhance your Spanish latte recipe:
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Brew strong espresso for a bold coffee flavor. Use 15g of ground espresso to make a 60ml double shot of coffee. The recipe calls for 3 double shots to serve 2 people.
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Warm your serving glass or cup by filling it with hot water as you prepare the drink. This ensures that your latte is served at an optimal temperature.
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Measure the condensed milk and adjust the amount according to your personal taste preferences. For a mildly sweet flavor, 1 ½ tablespoons may be ideal. Coffee lovers might prefer to reduce this amount, while those with a preference for sweeter drinks can increase it to their liking.
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If you enjoyed a spanish latte at home hot, why not try an iced spanish latte recipe next time? Ice spanish latte is perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day while still enjoying your dose of caffeine.
The Benefits of Spanish Latte
Here we have listed the benefits of a Spanish Latte for you:
Spanish Latte is helpful for memory and brain function
The presence of coffee and espresso in the Spanish Latte can be beneficial for memory and brain functioning.
Spanish Latte can boost your mood
The caffeine content in the Spanish latte is considered a mood-enhancing substance, capable of instantly uplifting one's mood.
You can customize your milk choice for Spanish Latte
Spanish latte allows for flexibility in selecting the type of milk based on personal preference, accommodating different dietary needs and allergies.
Choosing healthier milk alternatives like soya milk or almond milk can contribute to a healthier version of the Spanish Latte.
Spanish Latte is nutrient source
The use of condensed milk in the Spanish Latte makes it a good source of essential nutrients such as potassium, Vitamin A, D, and B12.
Flexible for healthier modifications
While the traditional recipe may not prioritize nutrition, it is possible to create a healthier version by using brown sugar instead of white sugar, which offers slightly higher amounts of iron, potassium, and calcium.
Best Beans to Make Spanish Latte
When it comes to making a Spanish Latte, Arabica coffee beans are generally considered the best and most preferred choice. Freshly roasted Arabica beans retain the originality and flavors of the latte.
- Blend of Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans: If you want to increase the caffeine concentration in your Spanish latte, a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans can be a good option. Robusta beans are more affordable compared to Arabica beans.
What is Arabic coffee? Check out our blog post!
- Solely Using Robusta Coffee Beans: While Robusta beans are typically associated with Vietnamese coffee, if you enjoy their unique characteristics and rubbery texture, you can use them for your Spanish Latte. Keep in mind that this may result in a different taste profile compared to the traditional Spanish Latte.
For a truly authentic Spanish essence, you can explore specialty coffee websites that offer exclusive Spanish coffee beans. The choice of coffee beans significantly contributes to the overall taste of the latte.
For the best Spanish Latte beans, explore Traum Kaffee beans. Visit our official website to discover our exceptional selection of Spanish coffee beans, handpicked for quality and distinctive flavors.
Where Can You Buy a Spanish Latte in Dubai?
Traum Kaffee is a coffee roastery that provides good quality coffee. It is one of the best coffee shops where you can buy a Spanish Latte in Dubai.
Spanish Latte from Traum is sure to satisfy any tastebud, as we offer various high-quality green coffee beans sourced ethically all over the world and roasted in small batches.
Visit our website to buy Spanish Latte in Dubai and contact with us!
How Long Does a Spanish Latte Stay Fresh?
A Spanish Latte stays fresh for a short period due to the nature of its ingredients.
The brewed coffee or espresso used in the latte loses its flavor and aroma quickly after brewing, typically within 30 minutes to an hour. The milk, whether steamed or frothed, is best enjoyed immediately for the best taste and texture.
It is recommended to consume a Spanish Latte shortly after preparation to ensure its full freshness and enjoy the flavors at their best.
Contact Traum for Spanish Latte
When it comes to the perfect Spanish Latte, Traum Kaffee is a name that stands out.
Our passion for coffee is evident in every cup we brew, and our Spanish Latte is no exception.
If you're eager to make a Spanish latte at home, we offer an impressive selection of coffee beans on our website.
By visiting our website, you can also discover valuable brewing tips to help you achieve that perfect Spanish Latte in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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FAQs
- Why is it called a Spanish Latte?
The drink is called a "Spanish Latte" because it is believed to have come from Spain.
It is called ‘’Spanish Latte'’ because it became popular in cafes and coffee shops in Spain, and it has its own distinct taste and ingredients compared to a regular latte.
- Can you make a Spanish latte dairy-free?
Yes, a Spanish Latte can be made dairy-free by using alternative milk options such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of regular cow's milk.
These milk alternatives can provide a similar creamy texture and taste to the latte while catering to those who avoid dairy products.
- How much sugar in a iced Spanish Latte?
While a Spanish Latte is sweeter than an unsweetened latte, it's still less sweet than flavored ones.
- Where is the Spanish latte popular?
The Spanish Latte is popular in various countries with a coffee culture, including Spain, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and other parts of Europe and Asia.
- How many calories does the Spanish latte have?
On average, a standard Spanish Latte can range from 100 to 250 calories, but this can be higher or lower depending on factors like the type of milk and amount of sugar used.
- How much caffeine does the Spanish latte have?
A shot of espresso contains around 63 milligrams of caffeine, so a Spanish Latte with a single shot of espresso would have a similar amount.
A Spanish latte with 1 espresso shot: 63 mg of caffeine. A Spanish latte with 2 espresso shots: 126 mg of caffeine.
- How do I make a vegan Spanish latte?
To make a vegan Spanish Latte, replace dairy milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Use vegan-friendly sweeteners, and skip condensed milk if it contains animal products.
- What is the difference between an iced latte and a Spanish latte?
The main difference between an iced latte and a Spanish Latte is the flavor profile.
While an iced latte is a traditional espresso and milk-based drink, a Spanish Latte incorporates condensed milk or sugar, giving it a sweeter and creamier taste.
- Difference between spanish latte and normal latte
The main difference between a Spanish Latte and a normal latte lies in the additional ingredients used.
A Spanish Latte includes condensed milk or sugar to enhance its sweetness and creaminess, whereas a regular latte typically consists of espresso and steamed milk without the added sweetness.
- What Is The Difference Between Spanish Latte And Cappuccino?
The difference between a Spanish Latte and a Cappuccino lies in the milk-to-espresso ratio and the foam.
A Spanish Latte has equal parts espresso and milk, with a layer of condensed milk or sugar, while a cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, often with a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon on top.
- What's the difference between a Spanish latte and a Vietnamese latte?
The main difference between a Spanish Latte and a Vietnamese Latte is the use of ingredients.
A Spanish Latte typically incorporates condensed milk and may have a sweeter taste, while a Vietnamese Latte, also known as Ca Phe Sua Da, uses Vietnamese coffee with sweetened condensed milk poured over ice. The Vietnamese Latte is usually served as an iced coffee.
