The Ultimate Butterscotch Latte (AKA Dirty Latte): A Cozy Twist with a Surprising Ingredient
Hey there! If you’ve ever been to Quail and Condor in Healdsburg, you know that they love to get creative with their flavors. This Butterscotch Latte, which I call the “Dirty Latte,” is inspired by their innovation. The twist? It’s made with Castelvetrano olive brine turned into a simple syrup that magically tastes like butterscotch! I know it sounds wild, but trust me, this sweet and salty blend is pure magic in a cup.
Why You’ll Love It
This isn’t just any latte—it’s packed with flavor and some surprising health perks. The olive brine, which forms the base of the butterscotch syrup, contains heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. Recent studies have shown that the polyphenols in olives may help reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure, which is a great bonus while you enjoy your morning cup.
Plus, the shot of espresso gives you that energy boost we all need in the morning, and paired with frothy plant milk, it’s the perfect balance of creamy, bold, and sweet. If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, but still want that satisfying, caramel-like sweetness, the olive brine syrup is a great alternative because it naturally curbs your sugar cravings!
Butterscotch Latte
Rate This Recipe:
Equipment
- Espresso Machine or Moka Pot
- milk frother
- Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Butterscotch Simple Syrup click ingredient for recipe link
- 1 shot espresso
- ½ cup frothed plant milk (use your favorite dairy-free milk)
- Vegan caramel sauce (for decoration, optional) click ingredient for recipe link
Instructions
- Brew the Espresso: Get that shot of espresso going with your favorite method.1 shot espresso
- Froth Your Milk: Heat your plant-based milk and froth it up! If you don’t have a milk frother, a quick hack is to shake the hot milk in a sealed jar until it’s nice and frothy.½ cup frothed plant milk
- Layer the Latte: Pour the butterscotch simple syrup into your mug first. Then, add the espresso shot and give it a stir. Slowly pour in the frothy milk on top to create those pretty layers.2 tsp Butterscotch Simple Syrup
- Garnish & Serve: Drizzle some vegan caramel sauce over the top and serve immediately. It’s cozy, comforting, and absolutely delicious!Vegan caramel sauce (for decoration, optional)
Video
More About This Recipe
Cooking Tips:
- The Froth Factor: Frothing plant milk can be tricky because it doesn’t foam up
quite like dairy milk. Almond and oat milk usually froth better than coconut milk, but try different brands to find your favorite! - Simple Syrup Secrets: To make your butterscotch syrup shine, don’t overboil it.
Just simmer the olive brine with sugar until it reaches that syrupy consistency. - Espresso Alternatives: No espresso machine? No problem! A strong brew of
coffee will work in a pinch.
Kitchen Tools
- Milk Frother: For that café-quality foam, a good milk frother is worth the
investment. - Espresso Machine or Moka Pot: Either will give you a rich, smooth espresso to
build the latte on. - Small Saucepan: Perfect for making your butterscotch simple syrup.
Tips for the Perfect Butterscotch Latte
- Experiment with Plant Milks: Different plant milks will give your latte a unique flavor and texture. Try oat milk for a creamy consistency, or almond milk for a nutty undertone.
- Make It Your Own: Add a touch of vegan caramel or sprinkle on some sea salt to bring out the butterscotch flavor even more. You can also experiment with a little cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
- Moderate the Sweetness: You can adjust the amount of Butterscotch Simple Syrup to make the drink more or less sweet depending on your preference. For a lighter version, try using 1 teaspoon of syrup instead of 2.
Nutrition
This Butterscotch Latte is not just a drink; it’s an experience. With its blend of rich espresso, creamy frothed milk, and the unique butterscotch flavor from olive brine syrup, it’s a delightful treat that’s sure to surprise your senses. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making it a versatile option for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Health Benefits in Every Sip
This latte isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s packed with health benefits too! The olive brine offers a source of healthy fats and polyphenols, which have been shown to promote heart health and combat oxidative stress. Polyphenols, the powerful antioxidants found in olives, have also been linked to reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Plus, the espresso brings a boost of energy and mental clarity, helping you power through your
day.
Give this Butterscotch Latte a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes your new morning obsession. It’s the perfect blend of unexpected flavors and cozy vibes. Enjoy!