Classic Spanish Latte Coffee Recipe

Name: Classic Spanish Latte
Prep time: 2 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee); 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste); ½ cup steamed whole milk

Posted by

mugmee

September 8, 2025

On August 31, 2025

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Classic Spanish Latte

A sweet, creamy, and incredibly smooth coffee drink that's a staple in cafes worldwide. The key is the condensed milk.

Region: Spain 🇪🇸 (Specifically, with deep roots in Spanish cafeterias)

Total Time: 5 minutes

Indulgence: ☕️☕️☕️ (Rich)

The Classic Spanish Latte Story:

While the exact origin is debated, the Spanish Latte (Café Con Leche) is a pillar of Spanish coffee culture. It's the standard morning coffee, often enjoyed with a pastry. The key difference from a standard latte is the purposeful use of sweetened condensed milk instead of plain sugar, which creates a uniquely rich, creamy, and sweet flavor profile without any grit. It gained global popularity through international coffee chains, but its soul remains in the bustling cafes of Madrid and Barcelona.

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Prep Time 2

Brewing time 3

Total Time 5

Course: Drinks

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

2 shots espresso (or ½ cup strong brewed coffee)
2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
½ cup steamed whole milk

Equipment

1 Espresso machine (with steam wand)

Method

Add the sweetened condensed milk to the bottom of your mug.
Pull the espresso shots directly over the condensed milk and stir to combine.
Slowly top with steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon.
Gently spoon a little milk foam on top.
Pro Tip: For an iced version, combine espresso and condensed milk, then pour over ice and add cold milk.