It was one of those mid-afternoon slumps where I just couldn’t seem to find the energy to power through the rest of the day. I’d been working nonstop, and my usual cup of coffee just wasn’t cutting it anymore. That’s when I decided to try something new – a Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte.
I’d heard rave reviews about the calming, yet subtly energizing properties of lavender, and I was intrigued by the idea of using oat milk instead of dairy. As I stirred together the fragrant, violet-hued mixture, I couldn’t help but feel my stress melt away. The first sip was pure bliss – the rich, creamy oat milk, the bold coffee, and the delicate floral notes of the lavender creating a perfectly balanced, comforting treat.
From that moment on, the Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte became my go-to afternoon pick-me-up. It’s become a ritual that I look forward to, a moment of peace and indulgence in the midst of a hectic day. And let me tell you, this recipe is an absolute game-changer.
Table of Contents
Why This Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte
What makes this Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte recipe so special is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The key is in the careful balance of the strong, bold coffee, the creamy and slightly sweet oat milk, and the fragrant, calming lavender.
The lavender is the real star of the show here. By using dried culinary lavender, you get a concentrated, yet delicate flavor that infuses the entire drink. The vanilla extract also helps to round out the floral notes, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the honey perfectly. And the oat milk? It creates a luxuriously velvety texture that’s hard to beat.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups oat milk: The creamy, slightly sweet oat milk is the perfect base for this latte, providing a rich, dairy-like texture without any heaviness.
- 1 cup freshly brewed coffee: A bold, full-bodied coffee is essential to balance out the delicate floral notes of the lavender.
- 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender: This fragrant, purple-hued herb is the star of the show, infusing the latte with a calming, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: The vanilla helps to round out the floral notes of the lavender, adding a subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional): A touch of honey can help to enhance the natural sweetness and provide a soothing, comforting element.
Step-by-Step Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte Instructions
Preparing Your Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte
With a prep time of just 5 minutes and a cook time of 5 minutes, this Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte comes together in a flash. All you’ll need is a small saucepan, a whisk, and a few key ingredients.
1- Start by brewing a strong cup of coffee, either using your preferred method or a quick espresso shot. This will be the bold, caffeinated base for your latte.
2- In a small saucepan, combine the 2 cups of oat milk and the 2 tablespoons of dried culinary lavender. Gently heat the mixture over medium, whisking frequently, until it’s steaming and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3- Carefully pour the hot lavender-infused oat milk through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the lavender buds, leaving behind the aromatic, violet-hued liquid.
4- Add the 1 cup of freshly brewed coffee and the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the strained oat milk. Whisk everything together until well combined and frothy.
5- If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon of honey to add a touch of sweetness.
6- Pour the Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte into two mugs and enjoy immediately, savoring the soothing floral aroma and velvety smooth texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans for the best flavor.
- Be sure to use dried culinary lavender, not essential oil, to infuse the oat milk.
- Experiment with different honey varieties to find your perfect flavor pairing.
- For an extra frothy latte, use a milk frother or whisk the mixture vigorously.
- Try adding a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.
- Adjust the ratios of coffee to oat milk to suit your personal taste preferences.
Serving and Storing Your Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte
Perfect Pairings for Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte
This Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte is the perfect afternoon treat, serving 2 people. For a truly indulgent experience, pair it with a flaky, buttery croissant or a slice of lemon pound cake. The delicate floral notes of the lavender also make it a wonderful accompaniment to light, fresh salads or a seasonal fruit plate.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The great news is that this Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte can be made in advance and stored for easy reheating. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, then transfer the latte to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the latte in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking frequently, until steaming hot. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.
Unfortunately, this latte doesn’t freeze well, as the delicate texture and flavor of the oat milk and lavender can be compromised. For best results, enjoy your Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte fresh.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte
Creative Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte Variations
- Iced Lavender Oat Milk Latte: Pour the latte over ice for a refreshing, chilled version.
- Lavender Oat Milk Chai Latte: Swap the coffee for a strong chai tea concentrate.
- Pumpkin Spice Lavender Oat Milk Latte: Add a spoonful of pumpkin puree and a dash of pumpkin pie spice.
- Maple Lavender Oat Milk Latte: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a cozy, autumnal twist.
Making Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte Diet-Friendly
For a gluten-free Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte, simply use certified gluten-free oat milk.
To make it vegan, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar. You can also use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or cashew milk in place of the oat milk.
For a low-carb version, omit the honey and use your preferred low-calorie sweetener instead. You can also reduce the amount of oat milk and increase the ratio of coffee to create a more robust, less creamy latte.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh lavender instead of dried?
A: While fresh lavender can work, it’s best to use dried culinary lavender for this recipe. The dried buds have a more concentrated flavor that infuses the oat milk better. Fresh lavender may result in a more subtle floral note.
Q: How long does it take to make this Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte?
A: This recipe comes together quickly, with a total time of just 10 minutes – 5 minutes for prep and 5 minutes for cooking.
Q: Can I make this latte ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat it before serving.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte recipe yields 2 servings.
Q: What if I don’t like the flavor of lavender?
A: If the lavender flavor is too strong for your taste, you can start with just 1 tablespoon and adjust to your preference. You can also try substituting other dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different floral note.
Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte
- Total Time: 10
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the heavenly aroma and creamy texture of this Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte. This cozy and comforting beverage is the perfect pick-me-up for busy mornings or a relaxing afternoon.
Ingredients
– 2 cups oat milk
– 1 cup freshly brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons dried culinary lavender
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
1. In a small saucepan, heat the oat milk over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it starts to steam and bubble.
2. Using a milk frother or whisk, froth the oat milk until it’s light and airy.
3. In a separate mug, combine the freshly brewed coffee and the frothed oat milk.
4. Stir in the dried lavender, vanilla extract, and honey (if using) until well combined.
5. Garnish the Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte with a sprinkle of additional dried lavender, if desired.
6. Enjoy your cozy and soothing beverage!
Notes
For an extra indulgent touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top. The lavender flavor can be adjusted to your personal preference.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Dips, Boards & Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
The Lavender Oat Milk Draft Latte has become my new afternoon ritual, a moment of zen in the midst of a busy day. With its perfect balance of bold coffee, creamy oat milk, and soothing lavender, it’s a unique and indulgent treat that I just can’t get enough of.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your home, too. Let me know what you think in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media. Cheers to a delightful, lavender-infused pick-me-up!