Ingredients

For the Latte:

  • 1 shot (1 oz) espresso (or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee)
  • 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based like oat or almond)
  • 1 tbsp lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
  • Zest of 1/4 lemon (freshly grated, for garnish)

For the Cream Cheese Foam:

  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp powdered sugar
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish:

  • Crushed graham crackers
  • Lemon zest
  • Whipped cream (if not using foam)

Equipment

  • Espresso machine or coffee maker
  • Milk frother or small saucepan
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Small bowl for foam
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Latte mug or heatproof glass (12-16 oz)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Espresso

  1. Brew 1 shot of espresso using an espresso machine or prepare 1/4 cup of strong coffee.
  2. Pour the espresso into a latte mug or heatproof glass.

Step 2: Heat and Flavor the Milk

  1. In a small saucepan or milk frother, heat 1 cup of milk over medium heat until steaming (do not boil). Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat for 1-2 minutes.
  2. Stir in 1 tbsp lemon curd, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp honey or sugar until fully dissolved.
  3. Froth the milk mixture using a frother, whisk, or by shaking it in a sealed jar to create a light foam.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Foam

  1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp softened cream cheese, 2 tbsp heavy cream, 1 tbsp powdered sugar, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Whisk or use an electric mixer until smooth and slightly thickened, resembling a light whipped cream. For extra froth, use a milk frother.

Step 4: Assemble the Latte

  1. Pour the frothed lemon milk over the espresso in the mug, holding back some foam with a spoon if desired.
  2. Spoon or pipe the cream cheese foam on top of the latte.
  3. Sprinkle with a pinch of crushed graham crackers and a small amount of fresh lemon zest for garnish. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve immediately while hot, stirring gently to combine the flavors as you sip.

Tips

  • Make it iced: Brew the espresso, let it cool, and pour over ice. Use cold milk and skip heating, but still froth for texture.
  • Adjust sweetness: Taste the milk mixture before pouring and adjust honey or sugar to your preference.
  • Lemon curd substitute: If you don’t have lemon curd, mix 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice with 1 tsp sugar, but note the flavor will be less rich.
  • Dairy-free option: Use plant-based milk and cream cheese alternatives, ensuring they froth well (oat or soy work best).

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

  • Calories: 220-250 kcal
  • Fat: 12-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 20-25g
  • Protein: 6-8g Values vary based on milk type and sweetener used.