Pumpkin spice has some competition now, thanks to a new warm and cozy coffee favorite.
The banana bread latte is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about drinks among coffee lovers, health-conscious sippers, and TikTok foodies alike. Inspired by the sweet, comforting flavor of freshly baked banana bread, this warm and frothy drink blends banana, espresso, and hints of cinnamon or nutmeg to create a café-style experience right at home.
Whether you love making drinks at home or want to know what Dutch Bros and Starbucks are brewing, this guide covers it all. We’ll break down exactly what a banana bread latte is, how to make one, its nutritional benefits, and why it’s the newest flavor trend to watch this year.
Looking for other fun drinks? Check out our tropical favorite — pineapple coconut ice cream — for a summer twist.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What is a Banana Bread Latte?
The Origin and Inspiration Behind the Drink
A banana bread latte is more than just a banana-flavored coffee. It’s a flavorful combination of ripe bananas, espresso or strong brewed coffee, warm milk, and cozy spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract. Imagine the deep, comforting taste of banana bread, but sippable like your favorite latte.
This trend probably kicked off in indie coffee shops playing around with fruity blends and classic dessert-inspired tastes. But it exploded online thanks to home baristas posting their creations on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. The comforting vibe of banana bread combined with the jolt of caffeine made it an instant hit.
Some versions use actual banana puree while others rely on syrups or extracts. You can also find iced, hot, vegan, or dairy-based versions, making this drink flexible for any coffee lover’s preferences.
Difference Between Banana Latte and Banana Bread Latte
Many people confuse a banana latte with a banana bread latte, but they’re actually quite different.
| Feature | Banana Latte | Banana Bread Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredient | Banana milk or purée | Banana + spices like cinnamon, nutmeg |
| Flavor Profile | Light, fruity | Warm, sweet, spiced |
| Common Style | Iced or hot | Usually served hot |
| Add-ins | No spices or bakery notes | Mimics banana bread with spice layers |
A banana latte is popular in Korean cafés and is usually made with banana milk and espresso. It’s lighter and more minimalist in flavor. In contrast, a banana bread latte is more dessert-like, cozy, and often enjoyed in cooler months.
Some cafés like Dutch Bros have made buzzworthy versions, while others offer customizable options. Don’t miss our Drinks & Dessert section for more inspiration!
Why Banana Bread Latte is the Next Big Coffee Craze
Popularity Trends on TikTok and Pinterest
If you’ve opened TikTok or Pinterest lately, you’ve probably scrolled past a dreamy clip of someone frothing banana milk, sprinkling cinnamon, or blending espresso with banana purée. The banana bread latte trend started gaining traction in late 2023 but skyrocketed in 2024 thanks to food influencers, home baristas, and cozy beverage lovers.
Search terms like banana bread coffee, homemade banana latte, and banana milk latte have spiked on Pinterest and Google Trends. On TikTok alone, the hashtag #bananabreadlatte has racked up millions of views with videos that highlight how easy it is to make this drink at home—often with just 4 or 5 ingredients.
The flavor combo taps into something nostalgic. People are craving comfort and simplicity, and banana bread already has a “cozy food” reputation. Turning it into a latte just makes sense—it’s warm, rich, and slightly indulgent without being over the top.
Influencers have helped fuel the craze by putting their own spins on it—vegan versions, iced versions, protein-packed versions. And because it looks gorgeous in a clear glass with frothed milk and banana swirls, it’s Instagrammable, too.
Cafes and Chains Offering the Drink (Dutch Bros, Starbucks, Local Cafés)
This isn’t just a home kitchen trend anymore—it’s popping up on real café menus.
Dutch Bros, the Oregon-based drive-thru chain known for bold and unique flavors, has offered a banana bread breve, which is essentially a banana bread latte with extra creaminess from half-and-half. It’s rich, sweet, and extremely popular in cooler months.
While Starbucks hasn’t officially added a banana bread latte to its core menu, several baristas on TikTok have shared custom order hacks using:
- 1–2 shots of espresso
- Steamed oat or almond milk
- 1 pump hazelnut syrup
- 1 pump banana syrup (or banana purée if available)
- Topped with cinnamon or nutmeg
Their banana bread loaf, however, is a staple on the food menu. Pairing the banana loaf with a cinnamon latte or vanilla latte brings a similar effect—though not quite as satisfying as the real thing.
Some indie cafés and specialty coffee shops have taken it further by offering banana-infused syrups or fresh banana steamers. It’s often a seasonal drink but is gaining enough popularity to become a year-round option.
Discover great ideas like Quick & Easy recipes for more sippable experiments!
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Banana Bread Latte: The Cozy, Creamy Drink You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Cozy up with this creamy banana bread latte made with real banana, cinnamon, and espresso. A warm, comforting drink that tastes like banana bread in a mug, easy to make in under 10 minutes!
Ingredients
🍌 ½ ripe banana (mashed or blended)
☕ 1 shot espresso or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee
🥛 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
🍁 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or brown sugar (optional)
🌼 ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
🌰 ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
✨ A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
☕Brew Coffee: Brew espresso or strong coffee and set aside.
🍌Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine mashed banana, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and sweetener.
🔥Heat Gently: Heat gently over medium heat until warm and steamy, stirring often (do not boil).
🌀Froth: Froth the mixture using a frother or whisk for extra foam.
🥄Assemble Drink: Pour espresso into a mug and top with the warm banana milk mixture.
✨Finish & Serve: Sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg and serve immediately.
Notes
📌For an iced version, blend the banana with cold milk and espresso, then pour over ice.
📌Use oat milk or almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free option.
📌Freeze blended banana and milk in cubes for a quick latte base later.
📌Add hazelnut or walnut syrup for a nuttier flavor twist.
📌Best enjoyed fresh—avoid storing longer than 1–2 days due to banana oxidation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (12 oz)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Banana Bread Latte Recipe – Make It at Home
Ingredients You Need for the Perfect Cup
You don’t need a fancy espresso machine or rare ingredients to enjoy a warm, flavorful banana bread latte at home. Chances are, everything you need is already sitting in your kitchen.
Here’s a basic version that you can tweak based on your taste or dietary needs:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe Banana | ½ medium | Mashed or puréed |
| Espresso or Strong Coffee | 1–2 shots | Adjust to taste |
| Milk | 1 cup | Whole, oat, almond, or soy work well |
| Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar | 1–2 tsp | Optional for sweetness |
| Vanilla Extract | ¼ tsp | Optional |
| Ground Cinnamon | ⅛ tsp | For warm spice flavor |
| Nutmeg (optional) | A pinch | Adds bakery-like notes |
You can also use banana syrup or banana-flavored milk if you’re in a rush, but using a real ripe banana gives this drink its authentic “banana bread” feel.
If you’re prepping this post-workout, add a scoop of protein powder or collagen for an extra boost.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Follow this easy step-by-step method to make a banana bread latte that feels like it came straight out of a cozy café.
Step 1: Brew the Coffee or Espresso
Start with freshly brewed espresso or a strong cup of coffee. Using instant espresso? Simply stir 1 to 2 teaspoons into 2 ounces of hot water.
Step 2: Mash or Blend the Banana
Mash half a ripe banana until smooth, or blend it with the milk for a silkier texture. This is where the magic starts—it’s what gives your latte that signature banana bread flavor.
Step 3: Warm the Milk Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the banana, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, sweetener, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using). Heat gently until steaming but not boiling, whisking frequently. You can heat it in the microwave, 30 seconds at a time, giving it a stir between each round.
Step 4: Froth (Optional)
Use a milk frother or whisk to create some foam if you like your lattes creamy and airy. Oat milk froths especially well for plant-based versions.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Pour the hot espresso into your favorite cup, gently add the warm banana-flavored milk, spoon the foam on top, dust with a little cinnamon, and sip away.
Optional Garnishes:
- Crushed walnuts or pecans
- Banana chips
- A drizzle of maple syrup
Looking for inspiration? Try a fruity twist with our pineapple coconut ice cream recipe—perfect for warm days when you want a tropical balance to your latte.
Best Variations of Banana Bread Latte
Iced Banana Bread Latte Recipe
Banana bread lattes aren’t just for sipping warm, they can be cool and refreshing too.
For warm days, iced banana bread lattes hit the spot cool, creamy, and just as flavorful.
Here’s a quick iced version you can make in 5 minutes:
Ingredients:
- ½ ripe banana, mashed or blended
- 1 shot espresso (or ¼ cup strong coffee)
- ¾ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp maple syrup or brown sugar
- Dash of cinnamon
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Toss banana, milk, your favorite sweetener, a dash of cinnamon, and espresso into a blender or shaker.
- Blend or shake until smooth.
- Pour over a glass full of ice.
- Garnish with a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon.
Pro Tip: Freeze your banana beforehand for a creamier texture without watering it down. If you want it even colder, blend everything with crushed ice for a banana bread latte frappe!
This version is a social media favorite—perfect for TikTok-style recipe videos. Try pairing it with a light snack from our Quick & Easy section for a full café-at-home experience.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Banana Bread Latte Options
Want a plant-based twist? This latte works beautifully with dairy-free alternatives. In fact, many say oat milk makes it even better thanks to its natural creaminess.
Best Milk Alternatives:
- Oat milk: Rich and naturally sweet—perfect match for bananas
- Almond milk: Lighter texture with nutty flavor
- Soy milk: High-protein option with a neutral base
- Coconut milk: Adds a tropical undertone if you want something bolder
Sweeteners to Try:
- Maple syrup
- Coconut sugar
- Agave nectar
- Date syrup
Spice Mix Ideas for Extra Flavor:
- Pumpkin spice blend
- Chai masala
- Cardamom and clove
You can also skip the espresso entirely and turn this into a banana bread steamer—especially good for kids or caffeine-sensitive drinkers.
Don’t miss our Drinks & Dessert section for other naturally sweet, dairy-free drink recipes.
Nutrition Breakdown and Health Benefits
Calories, Carbs, and Sugar Content
A banana bread latte may taste like dessert, but when made with whole ingredients, it can actually be a pretty balanced beverage—especially compared to store-bought flavored lattes or syrups loaded with additives.
Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown of a homemade 12 oz banana bread latte using:
- ½ ripe banana
- 1 cup oat milk
- 1 shot espresso
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- Light cinnamon and vanilla
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120–150 kcal |
| Total Sugar | 8–12g (mostly natural from banana) |
| Carbohydrates | 20–25g |
| Protein | 2–3g (varies by milk type) |
| Fat | 2–4g |
| Fiber | 2–3g (from banana and oat milk) |
| Caffeine | 60–90 mg |
Compared to a flavored latte at a coffee shop (which can run 250–400 calories with up to 40g of sugar), the homemade banana bread latte is far lighter and cleaner.
Want to drop the sugar? Skip sweeteners altogether or use stevia, monk fruit, or cinnamon for flavor without added calories.
Nutritional Pros and Cons of Adding Banana to Coffee
PROS:
- Natural Sweetness: Ripe bananas offer built-in sweetness, reducing the need for processed sugar.
- Fiber-Rich: Even half a banana adds gut-friendly fiber to your morning drink.
- Power Up with Potassium: A single banana packs more than 400 mg of potassium, which helps keep your heart and muscles in top shape.
- Mood Enhancer: Bananas contain tryptophan and vitamin B6, which help regulate mood and reduce stress—perfect with your morning coffee!
CONS:
- High Carbs for Keto: If you follow a low-carb or keto diet, bananas might spike your carb count quickly.
- May Not Blend Well Cold: When blended cold, banana texture can separate unless mixed well—best served fresh.
Looking for nutrient-packed inspiration? Don’t miss our carrot ribbon salad for a healthy, crunchy side to pair with your latte. (orphan link placement)
Banana Bread Latte vs Traditional Lattes
Taste and Texture Comparison
When it comes to flavor, the banana bread latte offers something completely different from traditional lattes—comfort food in a cup.
| Feature | Banana Bread Latte | Traditional Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, spiced, banana-rich | Neutral, coffee-forward |
| Sweetness | Naturally sweet (banana, cinnamon) | Depends on added syrups |
| Texture | Slightly thicker if using real banana | Smooth and creamy |
| Aromatics | Vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon | Espresso-forward |
| Mouthfeel | Creamy with banana body | Silky from steamed milk |
Because of the banana, this latte has a bit more weight and natural sweetness than a regular latte. It’s warm, bakery-like, and almost reminiscent of a dessert—yet not too heavy.
The traditional latte, on the other hand, focuses on the coffee’s boldness. That’s great for purists but might not satisfy someone looking for cozy, dessert-like vibes.
Banana bread lattes also pair well with rustic baked goods or nut-based snacks. Traditional lattes, while versatile, don’t carry that “comfort food” feeling quite the same way.
Which One Suits Your Morning Better?
It really comes down to your mood and goals for the day.
Choose a Banana Bread Latte if:
- You want something comforting and sweet without processed sugars.
- You’re sipping slowly or pairing it with breakfast.
- You’re craving something different from the usual.
Go with a Traditional Latte if:
- You need a stronger caffeine kick.
- You’re in a hurry and prefer simple, fast coffee.
- You don’t want any added flavors or sweetness.
You can always combine the best of both worlds: start your week with your usual latte, and treat yourself midweek or weekend with a banana bread version. Life’s all about balance, right?
Discover great ideas like our crack burger recipe to balance sweet drinks with savory meals. (orphan link placement)
Pairing Suggestions – What to Eat With Your Banana Bread Latte
Best Breakfast and Dessert Pairings
The comforting notes of banana, cinnamon, and vanilla in a banana bread latte make it the perfect morning companion—but what you pair it with can make or break the experience.
Here are top pairing suggestions for both sweet tooths and breakfast lovers:
| Pairing | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Homemade Banana Bread | Match the flavor—double banana, double comfort. Use nuts or chocolate chips for variety. |
| Oatmeal Cookies or Muffins | Their warm, chewy texture complements the creamy latte. |
| Pancakes or Waffles | Especially if flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, or brown sugar. |
| Almond or Walnut Biscotti | Crunchy contrast to a smooth latte, adds nuttiness that complements banana. |
| Greek Yogurt with Honey & Granola | Light yet textured, with natural sweetness. Balances out the richer banana notes. |
Want to keep it simple? Buttered sourdough or cinnamon raisin toast makes a perfect match, too.
Looking for something kid-friendly? Pair with a banana and peanut butter sandwich or even banana muffins for a flavor-rich but nutritious combo.
Try our simple lemon poppy seed pancakes for a bright, citrusy twist that balances the latte’s sweetness.
Homemade Banana Bread vs Bakery Treats
If you’re deciding between baking your own banana bread or grabbing a slice from your local café, here’s a quick breakdown:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Homemade | Customizable, lower sugar, fresh | Takes time and effort |
| Bakery Treat | Convenient, consistent flavor | Higher sugar/fat, costly over time |
When making it at home, opt for whole wheat flour, mashed bananas (not sugar), and healthy oils like avocado or olive oil for a more balanced snack. Toss in some cinnamon, chopped walnuts, or a bit of protein powder to give your morning a hearty boost.
Want to go the extra mile? Toast a slice, add butter or almond spread, and enjoy it alongside your hot banana bread latte. It’s basically breakfast dessert—but who’s complaining?
Don’t miss our Quick & Easy recipe section for more breakfast options that match your latte’s flavor profile perfectly.
Tips and Tricks to Elevate Your Banana Bread Latte Game
Frothing, Syrups, and Spices to Try
Your banana bread latte doesn’t have to be basic. With just a few tweaks, you can take it from “homemade” to “next-level café-quality.”
1. Frothing Like a Barista
Frothed milk gives lattes that signature silky texture. Here’s how to get it right:
- No frother? Use a mason jar: shake warm milk (not hot) for 30 seconds, then microwave for 30 more seconds.
- Use a handheld whisk to create microfoam manually.
- Oat milk and barista blends froth best among plant-based options.
2. Syrup Upgrades
For those who like things a bit sweeter or bolder:
- Cinnamon dolce syrup: brings in bakery-like spice.
- Banana syrup: ideal when you don’t have ripe bananas.
- Hazelnut or walnut syrup: adds nutty complexity to the drink.
3. Spice Layering
Don’t stop at cinnamon. Consider adding:
- Cardamom: brings out banana’s sweetness.
- Pumpkin pie spice: gives a cozy, fall-like flavor.
- Clove: use sparingly for a deeper warmth.
Want a gourmet edge? Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance sweetness, or grate fresh nutmeg on top for aromatic finish.
Storage and Reheating Hacks
While banana bread lattes are best fresh, you can prep them ahead—especially if you’re tight on time in the morning.
Storage Tips:
- Make the banana milk base (banana, milk, spices, sweetener) and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Brew fresh espresso or coffee just before serving to maintain full flavor.
Reheating Tips:
- Reheat banana milk base gently on the stove—avoid boiling, or it may curdle.
- Froth again after reheating for café-style foam.
Bonus Trick: Freeze blended banana + milk in ice cube trays. Toss a few cubes into hot coffee for an instant banana latte that cools down without watering it out.
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Want more food and drink hacks? Check out our Drinks & Dessert section for creative recipes and pairings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a banana bread latte?
A banana bread latte is a flavored coffee drink inspired by the warm, sweet taste of banana bread. It usually features mashed or blended banana, your choice of milk (dairy or plant-based), bold coffee or espresso, and warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Some versions use banana syrup, but the homemade version is often made with ripe bananas for a more natural taste. The result is a cozy, mildly sweet latte with creamy texture and bakery-style flavor.
Is banana latte a thing?
Yes, banana lattes are real—and they come in different styles. The original banana latte is especially popular in South Korea and Japan, where it’s made by blending banana milk with espresso, served hot or iced. While similar, it’s lighter and more minimalistic than the banana bread latte, which adds warm spices and deeper dessert-like notes. Both drinks are gaining popularity around the world, especially among fans of fruity coffee fusions.
Does Dutch Bros have a banana bread latte?
Dutch Bros does offer a version known as the banana bread breve, which is their take on the banana bread latte. It combines banana and hazelnut syrups with half-and-half instead of milk, making it extra rich and creamy. While it may not be available year-round or at every location, many Dutch Bros fans rave about it as a seasonal favorite. You can even ask a barista to custom-make one using banana and nutty syrups if it’s not on the menu.
What is in Starbucks banana bread?
Starbucks’ banana bread is a baked treat made with real bananas, walnuts, and a soft, moist texture. It’s a popular item on their bakery menu and pairs well with their cinnamon or vanilla lattes. While Starbucks hasn’t officially released a banana bread latte, some baristas have created custom recipes using banana-flavored syrups (if available) or by pairing the banana bread loaf with a spiced latte for a similar experience.
Conclusion
The banana bread latte isn’t just a trend—it’s a flavor experience that brings the comfort of your favorite homemade banana bread into a creamy, energizing cup of coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned barista or a curious first-timer, this drink is incredibly easy to make and easy to love.
From cozy morning routines to TikTok-worthy recipes, this latte has found its way into the hearts (and mugs) of coffee lovers everywhere. You can make it hot, iced, dairy-free, or sweetened to your liking. With just a banana, some spices, and your go-to milk, you can whip up a comforting, bakery-inspired beverage in minutes.
Looking for more fast and flavorful drink ideas? Don’t miss our Drinks & Dessert recipes to satisfy your next craving.
