This creamy pistachio latte is your new favorite homemade coffee drink. It beats the Starbucks version every time-made with real pistachios and simple ingredients. Make it at home in less than 10 minutes and save time and money!
Email me the recipe!
Enter your email and I'll send it to your inbox!
Plus get all our new recipes too!
JUMP TO
Why My Recipe
Pistachio everything is all the rage right now. So when I started seeing pistachio cream at my grocery store, I figured I better jump on the trend and try making a copycat version of a Starbuck Pistachio Latte for my afternoon pick-me-up.
This latte is ready in just about 5 minutes. I like to make the hot version in the cooler months, but an iced version is perfect for the warm Texas heat here. If you don't have an espresso machine, no problem! A strong brewed coffee, cold brew concentrate or moka pot works great!
Be sure to try my Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino next!
Ingredients and Substitutions
Here's what you'll need for this easy recipe:
- Milk of choice - Use whole milk for extra creaminess. Oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based milk all work beautifully.
- Espresso or strong brewed coffee - Pull a shot of espresso or use a moka pot, French press, or strong cold brew.
- Pistachio cream/spread - Look for one made with real pistachios. Pistachio paste can works too, but you might have to work with the texture some. Flavored pistachio syrup can be used in a pinch or if that's all that's available.
- Vanilla paste or extract - this is optional if you want to add a touch of vanilla flavor. Just add a ¼ teaspoon of high quality vanilla (I prefer vanilla paste or fresh vanilla bean) to the milk. A little bit goes a long way, so don't over do it. You don't want to overpower the pistachio flavor.
- Sweetener (optional) - Try honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar. Skip it if your spread is already sweet.
Optional toppings:
- Whipped cream or frothed milk
- Crushed pistachios
- A drizzle of honey
- Extra pistachio cream
How to Make a Pistachio Latte
This homemade latte comes together in just 5 minutes. Here's how:
- Heat milk in a small saucepan until steaming. Medium heat works best (don't boil). Add pistachio spread/cream and sweetener and vanilla (if using), stir until combined. A handheld milk frother or immersion blender works great for this!
- Drizzle some pistachio cream on the inside of the glass.
- Brew espresso and pour it into your mug.
- Pour the pistachio milk over the espresso.
- Top with frothy milk or whipped cream, crushed pistachios, and a drizzle of honey.
What's the difference between pistachio paste, spread, and cream?
- Pistachio paste is similar to a natural nut butter. It's usually just pure ground nuts without anything added. It has the most intense flavor and a dense texture.
- Pistachio spread and cream (what I used for this recipe) are similar products. They are whipped with a sweetener, oil, and sometimes dairy. The texture is light, creamy an luxurious similar to Nutella.
- When making your pistachio latte, read the label of the product and be sure it fits your dietary needs.
Tips for Success
- The quality of the pistachio spread makes a huge difference. Look for one made from real pistachios.
- Stir the spread well before using. Natural oils tend to separate at the top.
- Adjust the amount depending on sweetness and intensity. Some spreads are subtly nutty while others are more dessert-like.
- For an iced pistachio latte, skip heating the milk. Instead, blend cold milk and pistachio spread, pour over ice, and top with espresso.
- You can also make a cold foam version. Froth cold milk with a bit of pistachio spread and spoon it over iced espresso.
FAQ
Absolutely! Use a moka pot, French press, or strong cold brew. Any bold coffee works well here. Cold brew concentrate is also a great alternative to hot brewed espresso.
Yes! Pistachio milk gives a lighter, more delicate pistachio flavor. It's a great dairy-free option for this drink.
Whole milk makes the creamiest latte. Oat milk is a close second for a plant-based milk option.
How to Store
This drink is best enjoyed fresh. But you can prep the pistachio milk ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container like a mason jar, in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir or shake before using. Reheat gently. Do not store it with the espresso already added.
More Coffee Drinks To Try Next
📖 Recipe
Email me the recipe!
Enter your email and I'll send it to your inbox!
Plus get all our new recipes too!
Creamy Homemade Pistachio Latte (Starbucks Copycat)
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk or milk of choice such as oat or low fat
- 2-3 ounces espresso or strong coffee
- 2+ tablespoon pistachio cream/spread/paste adjust depending on how sweet/rich your spread is; use more for drizzle in your glass
- Sweetener to taste honey, simple syrup, maple syrup, or sugar-optional if your spread is sweet
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla paste/extract optional flavoring
Topping suggestions
- Whipped cream
- Frothed milk
- Crushed pistachios
- A drizzle of honey and pistachio cream
Instructions
- Heat milk in a small saucepan until steaming (don't boil). Add pistachio spread and sweetener (if using), stir until combined. A milk frother or immersion blender works great for this!
- Drizzle pistachio cream inside your glass or mug.
- Brew espresso and pour it into your mug. Pour pistachio milk over the espresso.
- Top with your favourite extras and enjoy!
Did you make the recipe? Share a tip here!