If you have been looking for a hot latte that actually tastes like banana bread and not just banana-flavored coffee, this is the one.
The iced banana bread latte will always have my heart, but I knew I needed to put together a proper version of the hot one too, especially since my husband had already claimed it as his. The difference is subtle but it is there. Because the banana coffee syrup dissolves directly into the hot espresso, the banana flavor gets pulled deeper into the coffee rather than sitting on top of it. It tastes more infused than layered, warmer and richer in a way that makes sense for a hot drink.
He has been taking it to work for weeks now, and apparently a few of his workmates have started asking what is in his coffee because it smells like actual banana bread when he walks in. That detail alone tells you everything you need to know about how good this one is.
If you want the full banana bread experience in a cup, make the Starbucks copycat banana bread on the side. It is a hard combination to beat on a cool morning.
Ingredients
The banana coffee syrup is what gives this latte most of its banana bread flavor, so I like starting with a tablespoon and adding more after tasting. Homemade syrup works especially well, but a store-bought banana syrup can work in a pinch, though the flavor may be a little less like banana bread.
For the coffee, I prefer espresso because it stays strong enough to balance the sweet banana and milk, but strong brewed coffee works too. The cinnamon is important here too. You only need a little, but it gives the banana that warm, spiced flavor that makes the drink taste more like banana bread.
See the recipe card for exact quantities.
Top Tips for Starbucks Copycat Banana Bread Latte
Use barista-style milk for a creamier latte: If you're using oat or almond milk, go for the barista version. It froths better than regular plant-based milk and gives the latte a smoother, creamier texture.
Toast the walnuts before adding them: A quick toast in a dry pan for 2 to 3 minutes brings out their nutty flavor and makes the topping taste more like freshly baked banana bread.
Warm your mug before making the latte: Fill it with hot water for a minute, then empty it before adding the coffee. This helps keep the latte hot longer, especially if you're taking your time drinking it.
How to Make Starbucks Copycat Banana Bread Latte?
This banana bread latte comes together by mixing the syrup into hot espresso, then adding steamed milk and your favorite toppings. Frothing the milk first gives it that familiar coffee shop finish without needing much extra work.
Heat the milk
Heat the milk until hot, then froth it until light and foamy.
- A milk frother, steam wand, or handheld frother will all work.
- Heat the milk until steaming, but do not let it boil.
Mix the coffee and banana syrup
Add the banana syrup in a mug, then add the espresso.
- Stir until the syrup is fully mixed into the coffee so it does not settle at the bottom.
- If using strong brewed coffee instead of espresso, use it while it is still hot.
Add the milk
Slowly pour the hot milk into the coffee, holding back some foam for the top.
Garnish and serve
Add whipped cream if using, then finish with crushed walnuts and a little extra cinnamon.
- Finely crushed walnuts work best so the topping does not feel too chunky.
- Add the whipped cream right before serving so it does not melt too quickly.
Yes. Strong brewed coffee or a moka pot works well if you don't have an espresso machine. Just make sure the coffee is concentrated enough to balance the milk and sweet banana syrup.
Whole milk creates a rich, creamy latte with plenty of foam. Oat milk is another great choice because its slightly toasted flavor pairs naturally with banana, cinnamon, and coffee.
Yes. Use oat, soy, or almond milk and skip the whipped cream or choose a dairy-free version. The banana coffee syrup is already made without dairy.
You can, but banana extract is much more concentrated and doesn't add sweetness. Start with just a drop or two, then sweeten the latte separately to taste.
Yes. Replace the espresso with extra warm milk for a caffeine-free banana bread steamer. You will still get the sweet banana and cinnamon flavors without the coffee.
Add a tiny pinch of nutmeg or a drop of vanilla extract. Both bring out the warm, baked flavor of the banana without making the latte overly sweet.
Absolutely. Decaf espresso or strong decaf brewed coffee works just as well, giving you the same banana bread flavor with much less caffeine.
Starbucks Copycat Banana Bread Latte
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon banana coffee syrup plus more to taste
- 2 shots espresso or ½ cup strong brewed coffee
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream for garnish (optional)
- Crushed walnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Steam or heat milk until hot and frothy.
- Combine espresso and banana coffee syrup in a mug. Stir to combine.
- Pour in steamed milk. Sprinkle cinnamon over the top.
- Top with whipped cream and crushed walnuts.
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