Ingredients
Scale
- 1-2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
- 1 cup (8 oz) milk of choice (whole, oat, almond, or coconut)
- 1-2 tablespoons rose syrup (or 1 teaspoon rose water + 1-2 teaspoons sweetener)
- Optional: Food-grade dried rose petals for garnish
- Optional: Pinch of ground cardamom
Instructions
- Brew Your Coffee Base: Prepare 1-2 shots of espresso using your espresso machine, or brew ½ cup of very strong coffee using your preferred method. If using instant espresso, dissolve 2 teaspoons in ¼ cup hot water. Pour into your favorite mug.
- Add the Rose Flavor: Stir 1-2 tablespoons of rose syrup (or 1 teaspoon rose water plus sweetener) into the hot espresso. Start with less and taste—you can always add more, but you can’t take it away. The mixture should smell floral but not overpowering.
- Heat and Froth the Milk: Pour your milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until it reaches 150-155°F (steaming but not boiling). Alternatively, microwave for 45-60 seconds. Use a handheld frother to create foam for about 30 seconds, or pour heated milk into a jar with a tight lid and shake vigorously for 30-45 seconds until doubled in volume.
- Combine: Pour the frothed milk over the rose-coffee mixture in your mug. Use a spoon to hold back the foam initially, then spoon the foam on top for that classic layered look.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with a few food-grade dried rose petals and a tiny pinch of cardamom if desired. Snap a photo for Pinterest (because this drink is too pretty not to share), then enjoy immediately while hot!
Notes
- Rose syrup brands matter: Look for quality brands like Monin, Torani, or Middle Eastern brands from specialty stores. The flavor is much better than artificial versions.
- Temperature is key: Don’t let your milk boil or it will lose its ability to foam and may develop a “cooked” taste. Ideal temperature is 150-155°F.
- Adjust to taste: Start with 1 tablespoon of rose syrup and add more if needed. Rose flavor should be present but subtle.
- Make it iced: This recipe works beautifully as an iced latte—just pour espresso and rose syrup over ice, add cold milk, and shake or stir.
- Dairy-free options: Oat milk and coconut milk work exceptionally well in this recipe.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte (12 oz)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg