Lightened-Up Copycat Chestnut Praline Latte
A healthier homemade version of the seasonal chestnut praline latte, made with natural sweeteners and creamy oat milk. This cozy drink comes together in under 10 minutes and delivers all the indulgent flavor without the sugar crash.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup roasted chestnuts, peeled and roughly chopped
- 4 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ cup water
- 2 shots espresso or 2 ounces strong brewed coffee
- 1 cup milk of choice (oat milk recommended)
- Optional: crushed chestnuts, cinnamon, coconut whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Make the chestnut praline syrup: In a small saucepan, combine chopped chestnuts, pitted dates, maple syrup, vanilla extract, sea salt, and ½ cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 3-4 minutes until dates are softened and chestnuts are tender.
- Blend the syrup: Carefully transfer the hot mixture to a blender. Blend on high for 30-45 seconds until completely smooth. Leave blender lid slightly ajar to let steam escape.
- Strain (optional): For a silky smooth syrup, pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl or jar. Press down with a spatula to extract all liquid.
- Brew your coffee: While syrup cools slightly, brew 2 shots of espresso or 2 ounces of very strong coffee using an espresso machine, Moka pot, or French press.
- Heat and froth your milk: Warm milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming (about 150°F). Froth using a milk frother or by shaking in a sealed jar for 30 seconds.
- Assemble the latte: In a mug, add 2 tablespoons of chestnut praline syrup. Pour in hot espresso or coffee and stir. Slowly pour frothed milk over the back of a spoon to create layers. Top with foam.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle crushed chestnuts, cinnamon, or nutmeg on top. Add coconut whipped cream if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Toast chestnuts before using if not already roasted for deeper flavor. Use room temperature milk for better frothing. Syrup can be stored in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For iced version, skip frothing and pour over ice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 latte (12 ounces)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 4
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 4
Keywords: chestnut praline latte, healthy latte, copycat recipe, dairy-free latte, vegan latte, fall coffee drink, homemade syrup