Easy Lavender Latte Recipe You’ll Love (Better Than Starbucks!)

Ever sipped a latte that tastes like a peaceful morning stroll through a blooming lavender field? That’s exactly what this drink delivers—floral, smooth, and downright soothing.

Lavender in coffee might sound fancy, but trust me, it’s comfort in a cup. Whether you like your lattes hot and steamy or iced and refreshing, this recipe has you covered.

Even better? It’s simple to make and way cheaper than your local café. Let’s turn your kitchen into your new favorite coffee shop.

Why Lavender in Coffee?

Not all lavender is created equal, especially when it comes to what ends up in your coffee.

You’ll want to stick with culinary lavender, which is a specific variety (usually English lavender) grown without harsh pesticides and safe to eat.

It’s more delicate and sweet, not overly perfumey like the stuff in your grandma’s drawer sachets. Beyond the flavor, lavender has long been praised for its calming effects.

Studies and folk wisdom alike suggest it can help reduce stress, ease anxiety, and even improve sleep quality.

So when you blend that gentle, floral note with the bold kick of espresso, something magical happens. The bitterness of the coffee balances out the sweetness of the lavender.

The floral aroma softens the sharp edges of the caffeine. It’s a yin-yang combo that somehow energizes and relaxes you at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 shot of espresso (or ¼ cup strong coffee): The bold base that gives your latte depth and richness. Use espresso for intensity, or strong-brewed coffee if that’s what you’ve got.
• ¾ cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based): This is where the creaminess comes from. Whole milk makes it lush, but oat, almond, or coconut milk works beautifully too.
• 1–2 tsp lavender simple syrup (homemade or store-bought): The star of the show. Sweet, floral, and calming—it transforms your drink from “just coffee” to café-level.
• Optional toppings: Whipped cream for indulgence, a sprinkle of dried lavender buds for beauty, a drop of vanilla for warmth, or a drizzle of honey for natural sweetness.

Equipment Checklist

• Espresso machine or coffee maker: Needed to brew your espresso or strong coffee base. Use whatever you have—an espresso machine, French press, or even instant in a pinch.
• Milk frother or small saucepan: For warming and frothing your milk. A handheld frother adds that café-style foam, but a simple saucepan works just fine.
• Fine mesh strainer (for syrup if making homemade): Essential for removing dried lavender from your homemade syrup so you don’t end up sipping petals.
• Small saucepan (for syrup): Used to simmer water, sugar, and lavender together if you’re making your own syrup from scratch.
• Mug or glass: Your final vessel—use a cozy mug for hot, or a tall glass for iced. Either way, it’ll look and taste like something off a fancy café menu.

How to Make Lavender Simple Syrup (Homemade)

Ingredients:

• ½ cup water – Acts as the base to dissolve the sugar and steep the lavender.
• ½ cup sugar – Provides sweetness and balances the floral flavor.
• 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender – Make sure it’s food-grade! This brings the calming, aromatic floral note to your latte.

Directions:

1. Add the water and sugar to a small saucepan.
2. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar fully dissolves.
3. Stir in the dried lavender and reduce the heat. Let it gently simmer for 1–2 minutes.
4. Turn off the heat and let it steep for 10 minutes because this is where the flavor deepens.
5. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh strainer to remove the lavender buds.
6. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a glass jar or bottle.
7. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks—perfect for multiple lattes, lemonades, or even cocktails.

How to Make a Hot Lavender Latte

Making a hot lavender latte at home is surprisingly easy, and yes, it’ll make your kitchen smell like a spa and a coffee shop had a baby. Here’s how to bring this floral hug in a mug to life:

1. Brew Your Espresso or Strong Coffee

Start by pulling a shot of espresso if you’ve got the gear. If not, brew about ¼ cup of strong coffee using a French press, AeroPress, moka pot, or whatever method you prefer.

The stronger, the better, because it needs to stand up to the milk and lavender syrup.

2. Heat (and Froth) Your Milk

Pour about ¾ cup of milk into a small saucepan or a milk frother. Heat it gently over medium-low until it’s hot but not boiling—tiny bubbles around the edge are your cue to stop.

If you like foam (who doesn’t?), use a frother or whisk to create that velvety microfoam. No frother? A good ol’ mason jar with a tight lid and some shaking works in a pinch.

3. Add Lavender Syrup

Drizzle 1 to 2 teaspoons of lavender simple syrup into your favorite mug. You can adjust the amount depending on how floral and sweet you like your latte.

Start light because lavender is delicate, but it can overpower if you go heavy-handed.

4. Combine Espresso and Milk

Pour your espresso or strong coffee into the mug over the syrup. Then slowly pour in the steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon if you want to spoon it on top afterward.

Stir gently to blend the flavors.

5. Garnish (Optional, But Fun)

If you’re feeling a little fancy, top it off with a sprinkle of dried culinary lavender or a heart-shaped swirl of foam. It’s not just pretty, but it’s café-level impressive.

How to Make an Iced Lavender Latte

When it’s too hot for hot coffee but you still want that dreamy floral flavor, an iced lavender latte hits the spot. It’s smooth, refreshing, and takes just a few minutes to throw together.

Here’s how to make it like a pro without leaving your kitchen.

1. Brew and Cool Your Espresso or Coffee

Start by brewing a shot of espresso or about ¼ cup of strong coffee. If you’re using a hot method like espresso, French press, or moka pot, let it cool for a few minutes so it doesn’t melt the ice instantly.

In a rush? Pop it in the freezer for 5–10 minutes or use cold brew concentrate instead.

2. Fill a Glass with Ice

Grab a tall glass and fill it with ice. Use plenty because you want your latte to stay cold and refreshing. Bonus points for clear ice if you’re going for that Instagram-worthy look.

3. Add Lavender Syrup and Espresso

Pour 1 to 2 teaspoons of lavender simple syrup into the glass. Then add your cooled espresso or coffee over it. This layering adds a beautiful gradient effect and helps the flavors mingle slowly.

If you’re someone who enjoys the aesthetics, this is your moment.

4. Pour in Cold Milk

Add about ¾ cup of cold milk—dairy or plant-based, whatever your heart desires. Watch as it swirls together with the coffee and syrup. That marbled look? Chef’s kiss.

5. Stir and Sip

Give it a good stir to combine all the layers. Taste and adjust. Add more syrup if you want it sweeter or more floral.

6. Optional Garnish: Cold Foam or Lavender Sprig

Feeling extra? Top it with a layer of cold foam for that velvety café texture.

A tiny sprig of dried lavender or even a pinch of crushed buds adds visual charm and a subtle aroma with every sip.

Flavor Variations

One of the best things about a lavender latte is how easy it is to make it your own.

Whether you like your drinks extra cozy, lightly sweet, or completely caffeine-free, these variations let you switch things up without losing that signature floral charm.

Lavender Vanilla Latte

This one’s a classic for a reason. Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pump of vanilla syrup to your latte for a creamy, dessert-like twist.

The vanilla smooths out the floral notes and gives your drink that comforting bakery aroma, like sipping a lavender sugar cookie in liquid form.

Lavender Honey Latte

If you prefer natural sweetness, replace the sugar in your syrup with honey. It adds a warm, golden flavor that pairs beautifully with lavender’s floral edge.

Think less “sweet shop,” more “sunny meadow.” Plus, it’s a great way to soothe your throat on chilly days.

Lavender London Fog

Not in a coffee mood? Swap your espresso for Earl Grey tea. The bergamot in the tea and the lavender play off each other like old friends—fragrant, cozy, and a little bit posh.

Decaf or Half-Caf Options

Love the flavor but not the caffeine buzz? No problem. Use decaf espresso or mix half regular, half decaf beans.

You’ll still get the same smooth, floral flavor without staying up counting lavender buds at midnight.

Lavender Matcha

For a green tea twist, swap the espresso for matcha. The earthy, grassy flavor of matcha balances the floral sweetness of lavender perfectly.

It’s a vibrant, energizing drink that feels both grounding and uplifting.

Storage & Make‑Ahead Tips

If you love planning ahead or just hate waiting for your caffeine fix, you’ll be happy to know this recipe is make‑ahead friendly.

The lavender syrup can be prepped in advance and stored in a sealed glass jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. It actually gets better after a day or two as the flavors mellow and deepen.

Your coffee can also be batch‑brewed and chilled, ready for quick iced lattes during the week. Just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

And don’t stop at coffee because your homemade lavender syrup is surprisingly versatile.

Stir it into lemonade for a floral twist, drizzle it into cocktails for a classy touch, or even add a splash to your afternoon tea.

A small batch goes a long way, and before you know it, you’ll be adding it to everything but your cereal.

Final Words

And just like that, you’ve got an elegant, café-style lavender latte made right at home. It’s simple, soothing, and way easier on your wallet than the fancy shop down the street.

Whether you’re starting your morning slow or winding down after a long day, this floral favorite makes a perfect little ritual!

FAQs

Can I use fresh lavender?

Yes, but with caution. Fresh lavender can be more potent and unpredictable than dried culinary lavender. If using fresh, make sure it’s organic and pesticide-free, and start with a smaller amount.

Always taste as you go because too much and it can go from floral to soapy real fast.

Is this drink safe during pregnancy?

In small amounts, lavender is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used in food or drink.

That said, always check with your doctor first, especially if you’re using concentrated lavender syrup or essential oils. Better safe than sorry.

What milk froths best for this?

Whole milk creates the richest, creamiest foam. But if you’re dairy-free, oat milk is the next best thing because it froths beautifully and has a naturally sweet, neutral flavor that pairs well with lavender.

Almond milk works too, though it can be a bit thinner.

How strong is the lavender flavor?

It depends on how much syrup you use. A teaspoon gives a soft, subtle floral note. Two teaspoons?

You’ll really taste the lavender. It’s totally customizable, so start light and build from there until it tastes just right to you.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Absolutely. Swap the regular lavender syrup with a sugar-free version using a sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol.

Just follow the same method—heat water, sweetener, and dried lavender—then strain and chill. It’s a great option if you’re watching your sugar intake but still want something fancy.