Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat

Name: Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled; 1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative); 1-2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste); Ice cubes; Whipped cream (optional, for topping); Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

I absolutely love the refreshing taste of this Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat! It combines the rich flavor of coffee with the sweet, creamy essence of vanilla and a hint of chill. Whether it's a hot day or I just need a delightful pick-me-up in the afternoon, this treat hits the spot. Making it from scratch is surprisingly easy and allows me to customize every element to suit my palate. It's a delightful way to enjoy coffee, and I can't wait for you to try this simple recipe!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:45:00.397Z

My journey to perfecting the Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat started on a hot summer day when I craved something cool and creamy. Experimenting with different ratios of coffee and vanilla, I found that a balance of both produces a treat that is refreshingly indulgent. The addition of whipped cream gives it a decadent touch, making it feel like a true dessert.

One important tip I learned is to chill the glass before pouring in the latte. A cold glass not only keeps the drink chilled longer but also enhances the overall experience. I love incorporating real vanilla bean for an aromatic quality, but vanilla extract works just as well if you have that on hand!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The harmonious blend of chilled coffee and sweet vanilla
A creamy finish that's perfect for any time of day
Easily customizable to suit your flavor preferences

Perfecting Your Coffee Base

The foundation of an exceptional Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat lies in your choice of coffee. Opt for a medium to dark roast for a richer flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of vanilla. Cold brewing your coffee can also yield a smoother, less acidic taste. If you’re in a pinch, consider using leftover brewed coffee; just ensure it's adequately chilled to enhance your drink’s refreshing quality.

When brewing coffee for this treat, aim for a ratio of 1:15 coffee to water for optimal flavor extraction. After brewing, let it cool completely before adding it to your mixture. You can even chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour, which can help integrate flavors without diluting your latte with ice too quickly.

Choosing the Right Milk

Milk selection is crucial for the creaminess of your latte. Whole milk will provide a rich, velvety texture, while low-fat milk might result in a lighter drink. If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, almond milk or oat milk work wonderfully, but consider the flavor profiles—almond milk adds a nutty note, whereas oat milk is creamier and more neutral. Adjust the amount based on your desired creaminess.

For an extra touch, try frothing your milk before combining it with coffee. Heat the milk gently until steaming but not boiling (around 150°F is ideal) and then whisk or use a frother until light and airy. This can give your iced latte a luxurious mouthfeel, elevating your treat to the next level.

Customization and Variations

One of the best parts of making your Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat at home is the ability to customize it. You can experiment with flavored syrups, such as caramel or hazelnut, to add a personal twist. Switching up the vanilla bean paste for a flavored extract can also lead to delightful variations; just remember that some extracts are stronger than others, so start with a lower amount and adjust to taste.

Consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a dusting of cinnamon on top of your whipped cream for a flavor boost. If you're feeling adventurous, a scoop of coffee ice cream instead of regular ice can create a visually stunning and indulgent version of this drink. Each variation can lead to a new favorite way to enjoy this classic treat!

Ingredients

For the Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat

1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
1 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
1-2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
Chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Coffee

Brew a cup of your favorite coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. This step is crucial for a refreshing iced latte.

Mix Ingredients

In a shaker or a large glass, combine the cooled coffee, milk, vanilla bean paste or extract, and sugar. Stir or shake well until the sugar is dissolved.

Serve Over Ice

Fill two glasses with ice cubes and pour the mixture over the ice. Leave some space at the top for whipped cream if desired.

Garnish and Enjoy

Top with whipped cream and sprinkle chocolate shavings for an extra treat. Serve immediately and enjoy your Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of flavored syrup, such as caramel or hazelnut, to your latte.

Tips for Serving

Presentation can elevate your latte experience! Consider using tall, clear glasses to showcase the beautiful layers formed when you pour the mixture over the ice. When serving, recommend straws made of environmentally friendly materials to enhance sipping enjoyment while also being conscious of the environment.

If you’re preparing this drink for a gathering, you can scale the recipe by brewing a larger batch of coffee. This can be kept chilled in the fridge and portioned out as needed. Just remember to mix in the milk and vanilla right before serving to maintain a fresh taste.

Make-Ahead Strategies

You can prepare your Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat ingredients in advance for a quick afternoon pick-me-up. Brew a large batch of coffee and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This prep allows you to grab and go on busy mornings without the need to brew fresh coffee each time.

The vanilla mixture can also be pre-mixed and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good stir before using, as vanilla bean paste tends to settle. This way, your iced treats can come together in minutes!

Storage and Shelf Life

While the Iced Vanilla Bean Latte Treat is best enjoyed freshly made, leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Note, however, that ice will dilute the drink as it melts. If you’re saving some for later, consider storing the liquid components separately and mixing them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Avoid freezing your latte as the texture upon thawing may become grainy due to the separation of milk and coffee. However, you can freeze coffee ice cubes to refill your drink without altering the taste later on. This works well for those who want to enjoy a chilled latte without extra dilution from melting ice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf coffee for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using decaf coffee is a great way to enjoy this treat without the caffeine kick.

→ What kind of milk works best?

You can use any milk, including almond, soy, or oat milk, depending on your dietary preferences.

→ How can I make this a vegan latte?

Simply substitute the milk for a plant-based alternative and skip the whipped cream or use a vegan option.

→ Can I prepare this latte in advance?

Yes! You can brew the coffee and mix the ingredients in advance, just chill them until you're ready to serve.