When the sun blazes overhead, I crave a refreshing pick-me-up that tantalizes my taste buds. Enter the Iced Ube Latte—a dazzling twist on the classic Vietnamese coffee that transforms a simple afternoon coffee break into a delightful escape. I stumbled upon this vibrant gem during a recent culinary exploration, and it’s become my go-to indulgence when I’m in need of a little sweetness to offset a hectic day.
Imagine a velvety blend of rich coffee mingling with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk and a luscious ube foam that adds a hint of nuttiness and a pop of color. This drink not only impresses with its striking appearance, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, elevating your home café experience without the fuss. Whether you’re a busy chef on the lookout for something unique or someone simply bored of too many drive-thru visits, this recipe promises to delight and inspire. Let’s dive into crafting this delightful iced treat that’s bound to become a new favorite!
Why is this Iced Ube Latte a must-try?
Refreshingly Unique: This Iced Ube Latte delivers a sensational flavor combination that’s both comforting and exciting.
Easy to Make: In just a few simple steps, you can create a café-quality drink right at home.
Visual Delight: The vibrant purple hue of ube foam creates an Instagram-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this drink serves as a unique conversation starter for friends and family.
Versatile Ingredients: With options like coconut milk and condensed milk, you can easily tailor it to your taste preferences.
Transform your mornings or afternoons with this delightful ice-cold treat that redefines your coffee experience!
Iced Ube Latte Ingredients
• Discover the essentials to craft a dreamy Iced Ube Latte right at home!
For the Coffee Base
- Vietnamese coffee or espresso – Use ½ cup Vietnamese coffee or 2 shots of espresso for a robust flavor.
- Condensed milk – 2 tablespoons add a creamy sweetness that balances the coffee’s bitterness.
For the Milk Mixture
- Milk of choice – ¼ cup of any milk enhances the drink’s creaminess; or opt for plant-based alternatives.
- Ice – Filling your glass with ice keeps this drink refreshingly cool and delightful.
For the Ube Foam
- Heavy cream – 2 tablespoons whisked into the foam will provide a delightful richness.
- Coconut milk – Substitute with 2 tablespoons of coconut milk for a tropical twist, or use any milk you prefer.
- Sugar – A pinch of ½ teaspoon sweetens the foam beautifully without overpowering the coffee.
- Ube extract – Just ⅛ teaspoon adds vibrant color and a unique nutty flavor that makes this drink extraordinary.
Elevate your beverage game with these simple yet essential ingredients, perfect for whipping up a sensational Iced Ube Latte!
How to Make Iced Ube Latte
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Brew the coffee: Start by brewing ½ cup of Vietnamese coffee or preparing 2 shots of espresso. Aim for a bold flavor that will stand up beautifully against the sweetness and creaminess to come.
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Combine the coffee and condensed milk: In a tall glass, pour your brewed coffee and mix in 2 tablespoons of condensed milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy, enhancing that loved coffee flavor.
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Add the milk and ice: Toss in ¼ cup of your chosen milk along with a generous amount of ice. This step creates the refreshing base for your Iced Ube Latte.
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Whisk the ube foam: In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of coconut milk, ½ teaspoon of sugar, and a touch of ⅛ teaspoon ube extract. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and has a luscious, creamy texture reminiscent of soft peaks.
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Pour the ube foam: Gently pour the whimsical ube foam over your coffee mixture. Allow some of it to float on top for that striking layered effect, making your Iced Ube Latte a feast for the eyes.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of crushed ube chips for added texture and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Iced Ube Latte Variations
Feel free to personalize your Iced Ube Latte with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds.
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Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk for both the heavy cream and regular milk for a creamy vegan-friendly option.
Enjoy the lusciousness of coconut while keeping it plant-based! -
Flavored Syrup: Add a splash of vanilla or hazelnut syrup to the coffee mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
This small change can transport your latte to gourmet coffee shop levels! -
Sweetness Levels: Adjust the sugar to taste; you can use honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
Experimenting with sweeteners adds a personal touch and caters to diverse preferences. -
Chocolate Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of cocoa powder to create a delicious mocha version of your Iced Ube Latte.
This indulgent twist combines richness with sweetness for chocolate lovers! -
Ice Cream Delight: Top your drink with a scoop of ube ice cream for a fun, dessert-like treat.
This variation transforms your latte into a sweet, creamy experience that’s perfect for a warm day! -
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile and introduce warmth.
These spices provide a comforting layer of depth that complements the sweetness beautifully. -
Nutty Flavor: Introduce a bit of almond or pistachio extract for a nutty twist that pairs wonderfully with ube.
The nuttiness elevates the drink’s complexity, appealing to those who enjoy layered flavors! -
Fruity Infusion: Consider blending in a few fresh strawberries or a splash of blueberry syrup for a fruity version.
This fruity twist not only enhances the drink’s vibrancy but also adds a refreshing zing!
Expert Tips for the Best Iced Ube Latte
- Perfect Brew: Use fresh, high-quality Vietnamese coffee or espresso for a rich flavor that shines through the creamy layers.
- Milk Choice: Experiment with different milk options, like almond or oat milk, to find the combination that suits your palate for the best Iced Ube Latte experience.
- Mixing Technique: Ensure the condensed milk is fully mixed with the coffee before adding ice—this prevents any clumping and ensures a smooth drink.
- Foam Consistency: Whisk the ube foam until it forms soft peaks, which yields a light and luscious topping. Avoid over-whisking to keep it airy.
- Layering: Pour the ube foam gently over the coffee mix to achieve those stunning layers—a simple yet effective way to impress your guests!
What to Serve with Iced Ube Latte?
Elevate your afternoon break with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the flavors of your Iced Ube Latte.
- Flaky Croissants: These buttery delights add a rich, flaky texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sweetness of your latte.
- Coconut Macaroons: The tropical flavor of coconut mirrors the ube and coconut milk in your drink, creating a harmonious taste experience.
- Chocolate Tart: Rich chocolate offers a decadent contrast, balancing the latte’s sweetness with its deep flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can elevate both elements.
- Fresh Mango Slices: The natural sweetness and juiciness of fresh mango beautifully enhance the ube flavor, offering a refreshing and fruity pairing.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and sweet, almond biscotti adds a nice bite, perfect for dipping into your latte while enjoying its creamy texture.
- Pineapple Smoothie: A fruity smoothie brings a refreshing brightness that complements the richness of the coffee, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Lavender Shortbread Cookies: Subtle floral notes in these cookies elevate the unique flavor of your iced latte, while their crispy texture adds a satisfying crunch.
- Matcha Cheesecake: This creamy dessert introduces an earthy flavor that beautifully contrasts with that sweet ube foam, making it an intriguing option for dessert lovers.
How to Store and Freeze Iced Ube Latte
Fridge: Store any leftover Iced Ube Latte in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before enjoying it again to refresh the flavors.
Freezer: If you want to save portions, pour your Iced Ube Latte into ice cube trays and freeze for a cold treat later. Use these ice cubes in smoothies or blended drinks!
Reheating: Although this drink is best served cold, if you prefer a warm version, gently heat the coffee base separately—don’t microwave the foam to preserve its texture!
Serving Tips: For the freshest flavor and texture, it’s best to enjoy your Iced Ube Latte right after making it.
Make Ahead Options
These Iced Ube Latte components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time! You can brew the coffee or espresso and mix it with condensed milk up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the ube foam, prepare the heavy cream, coconut milk, sugar, and ube extract blend up to 24 hours ahead, whisking just before serving to ensure it maintains its airy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply add ice and the milk of your choice to your coffee mixture, then finish with the ube foam. This way, you’ll have a café-quality drink with minimal effort!
Iced Ube Latte Recipe FAQs
What type of coffee should I use for the Iced Ube Latte?
Absolutely! For an authentic taste, I recommend using Vietnamese coffee, as its robust flavor complements the creamy ingredients beautifully. If Vietnamese coffee isn’t available, you can substitute with strong espresso (2 shots).
How should I store leftover Iced Ube Latte?
Store any leftover Iced Ube Latte in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may have settled. Enjoy it cold for the best experience!
Can I freeze Iced Ube Latte?
Very! To freeze your Iced Ube Latte, simply pour it into ice cube trays and place them in the freezer. These cubes can later be used in smoothies or blended drinks. For the best taste, consume them within 2 to 3 months.
What if my ube foam isn’t thick enough?
If your ube foam isn’t reaching the desired thickness, make sure to whisk the heavy cream until soft peaks form—this indicates you have the right consistency. If it’s still too runny, blend it briefly with a hand mixer for a thicker foam.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
This Iced Ube Latte contains dairy from condensed milk and heavy cream, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. You can substitute these with lactose-free options or plant-based milks, such as coconut or almond milk, to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Can pets have any of the ingredients in this latte?
It’s best to keep this Iced Ube Latte away from pets, as the caffeine in coffee can be harmful to them. Additionally, ingredients like sugar and ube extract aren’t recommended for pet consumption. Always prioritize your furry friends’ health first!
Elevate Your Day with an Iced Ube Latte Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brew the coffee by preparing ½ cup of Vietnamese coffee or 2 shots of espresso.
- Combine the coffee and condensed milk in a tall glass and stir until smooth.
- Add the ¼ cup of milk of choice and fill with ice.
- Whisk together the heavy cream, coconut milk, sugar, and ube extract until creamy.
- Pour the ube foam over the coffee mixture for a layered effect.