How to Recreate Your Favourite Coffee Drinks at Home

Discover tips and recipes on how to recreate your favourite coffee drinks at home, from frothy lattes to iced creations, plus how to use coconut whipping cream for the perfect finish.

There’s something special about enjoying a café-style coffee drink, whether it’s a frothy cappuccino, a creamy latte, or a refreshing iced coffee. While visiting your local coffee shop is always an option, recreating your favourite coffee drinks at home can be just as enjoyable, and often more convenient. With a few simple ingredients and some helpful techniques, you can craft delicious, café-inspired beverages in your own kitchen.

Start with Quality Coffee

The foundation of any great coffee drink is, of course, the coffee itself. Choose a blend that matches your taste preferences, whether you enjoy a bold dark roast or a lighter, fruitier blend. If possible, grind your beans just before brewing for the freshest flavour. Experiment with different brewing methods—such as a French press, pour-over, or espresso machine—to discover what you like best.

Master the Basics: Espresso, Brewed Coffee, and Cold Brew

Most café drinks start with either espresso or brewed coffee. If you have an espresso machine, you can easily pull a shot for lattes and cappuccinos. For those without an espresso machine, a stovetop moka pot or a strong French press brew can be a great alternative. For iced coffee, try making a batch of cold brew by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water overnight, then straining it in the morning.

Choose Your Plant-Based Base

Many coffee lovers enjoy adding a plant based beverage to their drinks for a subtle flavour. Almond, oat, and soy beverages all work well and can be frothed for hot drinks or poured over ice for chilled creations. If you like a hint of sweetness, choose a vanilla or original version, or keep it unsweetened for a more classic taste.

Try my homemade rice milk or homemade oat milk recipes!

Froth Like a Barista

Frothed plant-based beverages can take your homemade coffee drinks to the next level. Use a handheld frother, a French press, or even a whisk to create foam for your lattes and cappuccinos. Heat your beverage of choice gently before frothing to achieve the best texture. Pour the frothed beverage over your coffee and enjoy the café-style experience at home.

Flavour It Up – Best coffee flavors

One of the joys of making coffee at home is the ability to experiment with flavours. Add a dash of cinnamon, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a unique twist. You can also infuse your beverage with vanilla extract, a hint of nutmeg, or even a splash of plant based caramel or hazelnut syrup. For iced drinks, try adding a few fresh mint leaves or a slice of orange for a refreshing touch.

Try my flavored pumpkin spice latte below!

Top It Off – Best coffee toppings

To truly capture the coffee shop experience, don’t forget the finishing touches. A swirl of coconut whipping cream can add a delicious, creamy layer to hot or iced drinks—perfect for special occasions or when you want to enjoy a little something special. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, cocoa, or a few chocolate shavings for a beautiful presentation.

Simple Coffee Recipes to Try

Classic Café Latte

• Brew a strong cup of coffee or a shot of espresso.
• Heat and froth your favourite plant-based beverage.
• Pour the coffee into a mug and top with the frothed beverage.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa if desired.

Iced Vanilla Coffee

• Fill a glass with ice and pour in cold brew or cooled brewed coffee.
• Add a splash of vanilla-flavoured plant-based beverage.
• Stir and top with coconut whipping cream.

Mocha-Inspired Cappuccino

• Brew a shot of espresso or strong coffee.
• Stir in 1 tsp. of cocoa powder and a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Froth your plant-based beverage and pour over the coffee mixture.
• Garnish with chocolate shavings.

Tips for Success

• Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the amount of coffee, plant based beverage, and sweetener to suit your taste.
• Keep It Fresh: Use freshly ground coffee beans and clean equipment for the best results.
• Get Creative: Try new flavour combinations and toppings to keep your homemade drinks exciting.

Recreating your favourite coffee drinks at home is about more than just the beverage—it’s about enjoying the process and savouring the moment. Take a few extra minutes to set the scene with your favourite mug, a cozy spot, and maybe a good book or some music. Sharing your creations with family or friends can make the experience even more special.