Cinnamon Dolce Latte – Starbucks Copycat Recipe

There’s something magical about sipping a warm, cinnamon-infused latte on a crisp morning. For me, it’s a little ritual that transforms even the busiest of days into something special.

Starbucks has always been my go-to for that comforting cup of Cinnamon Dolce Latte, but over time, I realized I wanted to recreate that cozy, spiced flavor at home.

So, I rolled up my sleeves, put on my favorite playlist, and got to work crafting a recipe that doesn’t just mimic the original—it feels even more personal. Now, I get to enjoy that sweet, cinnamon-kissed warmth whenever I want, right from my own kitchen.

If you’re like me—someone who finds joy in those little moments with a homemade latte in hand—this recipe is for you. Let’s bring a little Starbucks magic to your home!

What Does Cinnamon Dolce Mean?

If you’ve ever wondered about the fancy-sounding name, “Cinnamon Dolce,” you’re not alone!

“Dolce” is an Italian word that means “sweet,” and in this case, it perfectly describes the rich, sugary flavor that blends so beautifully with the warm spice of cinnamon. Together, “Cinnamon Dolce” translates to something like “sweet cinnamon,” a fitting name for this indulgent flavor combination.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Cost-Effective: Save money by skipping the coffee shop and making your own latte at home with simple ingredients you likely already have.
• Perfect for Any Season: Enjoy it hot in the winter for a cozy treat or iced in the summer for a refreshing pick-me-up.
• Aromatherapy Bonus: The warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen as you make it, adding to the sensory delight.
• Impress Your Guests: Serve this homemade latte to friends or family, and they’ll think you’ve mastered the art of coffee-making.
• Pairs Perfectly with Treats: Whether it’s a slice of cake, a muffin, or even breakfast pancakes, this latte elevates any snack.
• Feel Like a Barista: There’s something empowering about recreating your favorite coffee shop drink at home—it’s a skill you’ll love showing off!

Ingredients & Equipment

When making a Cinnamon Dolce Latte, the quality of each ingredient plays a big role in the final flavor.

First, the espresso or strong brewed coffee is essential—it serves as the base of the drink, so choosing a rich, well-roasted coffee will give your latte that deep, robust flavor that balances the sweetness. Whether you use an espresso machine or a stovetop method, make sure the coffee is freshly brewed for the best taste.

The cinnamon is, of course, the star of the show. Opt for ground cinnamon, but for an extra burst of flavor, you can use freshly grated cinnamon sticks. The key here is to choose a high-quality cinnamon, such as Ceylon cinnamon, which has a smoother, sweeter taste compared to the more common Cassia variety. The right cinnamon will enhance the latte’s warmth without overpowering it.

The sweetener used in a Cinnamon Dolce Latte is typically brown sugar or a cinnamon syrup. Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon, giving the drink that cozy, indulgent feel. If you prefer a syrup, making it at home allows you to control the sweetness and consistency, ensuring it’s just the way you like it.

For the milk, whole milk gives the richest, creamiest texture, making your latte smooth and velvety. However, if you prefer a dairy-free version, almond milk or oat milk works well and adds a nice creaminess too. Just be sure to choose a milk or milk alternative that froths well to get that perfect foam on top.

A touch of vanilla extract can round out the flavors, adding a subtle sweetness that complements the cinnamon and sugar. It’s not mandatory, but it adds depth to the drink, making it feel extra special. All these ingredients come together to create a Cinnamon Dolce Latte that’s just as satisfying, if not more so, than the one you’d order at Starbucks.

Lastly, for equipment, you’ll need a coffee maker or espresso machine, a saucepan for making the cinnamon syrup, and a milk frother to achieve that creamy texture and foam. If you don’t have a frother, a whisk or handheld frother will do the trick. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can easily recreate a delicious Cinnamon Dolce Latte at home.

Ingredients for making Cinnamon Dolce Latte:

• 1 shot of espresso (or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee)
• 1/2 cup of milk (whole milk or dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more for extra spice)
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• Whipped cream (optional, for topping)

How To Make Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Instructions for making Cinnamon Dolce Latte:

1. Brew your coffee or espresso. Start by brewing one shot of espresso or 1/2 cup of strong coffee. This will be the base of your latte.
2. Prepare the cinnamon syrup. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon with a splash of water (about 1-2 tablespoons). Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes syrupy. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Heat your milk. In a separate small saucepan or using a milk frother, heat the milk until it’s steaming, but not boiling. If you’re using a frother, this will create a creamy foam.
4. Combine everything. In a mug, pour your brewed coffee or espresso. Add the cinnamon syrup and vanilla extract (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Add the milk. Slowly pour the steamed milk into the mug with the coffee mixture. If you’ve used a frother, pour the frothed milk for a nice foam on top.
6. Optional topping. Top your Cinnamon Dolce Latte with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fun finishing

Recommendations & Alternatives

• Make it Iced: For a cool version, simply let the coffee and cinnamon syrup cool, then pour over ice and top with cold milk and foam.
• Use Maple Syrup: Swap out the brown sugar for maple syrup for a different, natural sweetness and a unique twist.
• Add a Dash of Nutmeg: For extra warmth, sprinkle a bit of nutmeg along with the cinnamon in your syrup or on top.
• Try Coconut Milk: If you’re looking for a tropical flavor, substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet twist.
• Infuse the Syrup with Other Spices: Experiment by adding a pinch of cloves or cardamom to the cinnamon syrup for a more complex, spiced flavor that enhances the warmth of the drink.
• Use Cinnamon Sticks for Stirring: For an extra touch of elegance, use a cinnamon stick as a stirrer in your latte. It adds both flavor and a visually appealing touch.