Holidays come with joyful moments, people and some other wonderful things. Two of these things are candy cane latte and candy cane tea latte. Peppermint flavors additionally enhance every sip of your favorite coffee. That mouthful sip of a candy cane latte immediately brings warmth to your mornings.

On the menus at Starbucks and Dutch Bros, you have undoubtedly seen these minty treats, commonly known as candy cane latte starbucks and candy cane latte Dutch bros. But did you know you may produce your own version at home? There are many means to savor that ideal mix of coffee and peppermint, from classic espresso-based recipes to caffeine-free tea options.

Whether you like grabbing one from your preferred coffee shop or brewing something special in your own kitchen, this guide will cover all you have to know about preparing and savoring candy cane lattes.

What Is a Candy Cane Latte?

The strong, rich flavor of espresso is mixed with the icy peppermint syrup in a candy cane latte. Usually the drink consists of steamed milk, forming a creamy bottom, topped with fluffy whipped cream and occasionally decorated with mashed candy canes or a peppermint stick. The end product is a drink resembling liquid holiday cheer.

Origins and Holiday Popularity

Riding the tide of flavored coffee popularity, peppermint-flavored coffee beverages began to show up on winter menus in the early 2000s. During the holiday season, coffee shops found consumers longed for something distinct. Something that conveyed the mood of winter festivities while yet providing their daily caffeine kick.

Because it matched the nostalgic emotions people have for the holidays so well, the candy cane latte swiftly became a seasonal favorite.

Key Ingredients That Define a Candy Cane Latte

Four basic ingredients make the foundation of any great candy cane latte:

• Fresh brewed espresso
• Peppermint syrup
• Steamed milk
• Whipped cream

While peppermint syrup offers that distinctive minty flavor, the espresso forms the coffee foundation. Whipped cream provides depth while steamed milk gives the creamy texture. Crushed candy canes, which have a pleasing crunch and peppermint flavor as well as visual appeal, are among favorite toppings.

Classic Candy Cane Latte Recipe at Home

Making your own candy cane latte at home is not as difficult as you would imagine, and it lets you manage every part of the taste. You’ll need a few basic ingredients, basic coffee equipment such as an espresso machine or strong coffee maker, a milk frother or whisk, and some simple spices.

From beginning to end, the process takes around 5 to 10 minutes, therefore ideal for hectic mornings or comforting evening treats. Here is the breakdown of the whole process

Equipments

• Coffee mug
• Espresso machine, unless you’re using espresso powder
• Measuring cup
• Microwave safe cup
• Microwave, steam wand, or milk frother with heating element
• Milk frother
• Coffee stirrer or spoon
• Sandwich bags or food processor for crushing candy canes

Ingredients

• Espresso two shots (2 oz.)
• Milk 1 CUP
• Peppermint syrup 2-3 tbsp
• Candy cane 1 piece
• Whipped cream optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Brew your espresso or strong coffee
• Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming
• Froth the milk using a frother or whisk vigorously
• Add peppermint syrup to your coffee
• Pour the frothed milk into the coffee
• Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes
• For a dairy-free version, you can substitute coconut milk, oat milk, or almond milk. Each alternative creates a slightly different flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite one.

Tips to Enhance Your Homemade Latte

Getting the ideal milk froth calls practice, but a quick trick is to pour warm milk into the jar, screw on the cover, and shake aggressively for 30 seconds. Crush candy canes in a sealed bag for garnish using a rolling pin.

Experiment with flavor combinations like a shot of vanilla for richness or adding white chocolate syrup for more sweetness. Some people like to add a pinch of cocoa powder to create a subdued mocha variation.

Candy Cane Latte Starbucks Style

Starbucks has refined their interpretation of this traditional favorite over decades. Their method aims at developing a beverage that is simultaneously decadent and well-balanced. Using their trademark espresso combination with peppermint syrup and steamed milk, the coffee chain tops with whipped cream and red sugar crystals resembling crushed candy canes.

Starbucks‘ version stands out for their focus on ratios of ingredients. They’ve found the ideal combination where the peppermint improves rather than covers the flavor of the coffee. It is available hot or cold, and many customers like personalizing it with extra espresso shots or other milk substitutes like oat milk or almond milk.

Candy Cane Latte Dutch Bros Version

The Dutch Bros version, with their signature energetic approach to coffee culture, gives the traditional candy cane latte their own twist. Their rendition is typically a touch sweeter than other coffee shops, which attracts people who like a beverage that is more dessert-like. The Dutch Bros team is known for their energy and readiness to personalize drinks exactly how you want them.

What Is a Candy Cane Tea Latte?

Herbal peppermint tea and steamed milk make up a candy cane tea latte, which offers a calming, caffeine-free substitute for coffee-based lattes. Non-coffee drinkers or anybody wishing to have a celebratory evening drink without disturbing their sleep will find this variant to be ideal. Creamy milk and sweet toppings match well with the tea’s mild, naturally minty base.

How to Make a Peppermint Tea Latte

Ingredients

• Peppermint tea bags 2 

or 

• Loose leaf peppermint tea 1 tbsp
• Hot water 1 cup 
• Milk ½ cup
• Honey or vanilla syrup 1-2 tbsp (optional)
• Whipped cream and crushed candy canes for garnishing

Instructions

• Steep the tea in hot water for 5 minutes, then remove bags or strain loose leaves.
• Heat and froth the milk, then combine with the tea.
• Add honey or vanilla syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
• Top with whipped cream and candy cane pieces for the full experience.

A Delightful Variant of Flavor and Taste

Whether you like making your own at home, Team Starbucks, or Dutch Bros, there is a candy cane latte recipe out there for everyone. The attraction of this beverage stems from its flexibility, it may be made strong or faint, sweet or delicate, caffeinated or caffeine-free. Make it just like you desire.