The Best Looking Food-Topped Lattes
A latte does not need much decoration to taste good, but food toppings can make one more fun for a party, holiday drink, or photo. The key is to choose toppings that actually work with the coffee instead of adding something just because it looks dramatic.
For milk drinks, we like coffees with enough body to remain noticeable through milk and toppings. Starlight is an easy all-around choice, while Dusk works well when you want a richer coffee flavor. The Colombia Huila is another option if you want something cleaner and brighter.
S’mores Latte
Melt a small amount of chocolate and place it on a shallow plate. Dip or roll the rim of the mug in the chocolate, then press it into crushed graham crackers. Prepare your latte as usual and top it with marshmallows.
A chocolate-forward espresso works especially well here because the coffee does not get lost behind the graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow.
Donut-Topped Latte
A donut across the top of a mug is simple and easy to customize. Use a glazed or lightly frosted donut if you plan to dip it into the coffee. Powdered or heavily filled donuts can be messier than they are worth.
For a cleaner presentation, cut a small slit from the outside edge of the donut to the center and rest it on the rim of the cup.
Stroopwafel Latte
Place a stroopwafel across the top of a hot latte and let the steam warm it for a minute or two. The caramel filling softens as the waffle warms, which makes it especially good with coffees that have chocolate, caramel, or nut-like notes.
Chocolate-Topped Latte
A small square or shaving of chocolate is enough to change a latte without overwhelming it. Dark chocolate will keep the drink less sweet, while milk chocolate creates something closer to a mocha as it melts.
If you want the chocolate fully incorporated, add it to the espresso first and stir before pouring the steamed milk.
Seasonal Variations
The same idea can be adapted throughout the year. Try a small ginger cookie in winter, cinnamon and chocolate in fall, or a simple biscuit with a lighter latte. You do not need to pile food onto the cup. One topping that fits the flavor is usually enough.
The coffee should still be the reason the drink tastes good. The topping is the extra.
