Description
Enjoy a cozy and festive Holiday-Spiced Café au Lait, featuring warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves blended with rich whole milk and strong coffee. This comforting beverage is perfect for chilly days and holiday gatherings, topped with optional whipped cream and a cinnamon garnish for extra warmth and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Milk Mixture
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Coffee
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso
Optional Garnishes
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the Milk Mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole milk, brown sugar (if using), ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and pure vanilla extract. Whisk gently and heat the mixture until it is warm and steamy but not boiling, allowing the spices to infuse the milk.
- Brew the Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee or espresso using your preferred method and pour it into a large mug, preparing the base of your café au lait.
- Froth the Spiced Milk: Use a milk frother, a whisk, or shake the spiced milk vigorously in a jar with a tight lid to create froth. This adds a light and creamy texture to the drink.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the frothed spiced milk over the coffee in the mug. If desired, top with whipped cream and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick for a festive touch. Serve immediately while the drink is hot.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with oat milk or almond milk.
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference for a milder or stronger seasonal flavor.
- Add a dash of ground ginger for an extra layer of warmth and holiday spice.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, French-inspired
