Name: Homemade Juniper Berry Latte (Easy Syrup Recipe)
Prep time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1/2 cup filtered water; 1 tablespoon whole dried juniper berries; 3 fresh sage leaves (finely chopped); 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 shots freshly brewed espresso ((1/4 cup)); 2 tablespoons homemade juniper syrup; 1/2 to 2/3 cup steamed milk (to taste) ((or cold milk for iced version))

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juniper latte recipe in mug with sage and nutmeg

This homemade juniper berry latte is a warm and refreshing twist on your usual cup of coffee. With the subtle winter flavor of juniper and herbs combined with caramelized maple syrup and creamy steamed milk, it’s perfect for cold mornings or when you’re craving something unique! Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a great way to add a festive taste to your every day drink.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Easy

You don’t have to drive to your local Starbucks to enjoy a tasty seasonal drink, you can make your own at home! The simple syrup is very easy to make, only taking a few minutes. Combine water, maple syrup, and spices in a small saucepan, then simmer for a few minutes. Next, strain through a sieve, then combine with coffee and milk. Now it’s ready to enjoy!

Healthy

The Starbuck’s juniper latte is made with unhealthy ingredients like sugar, flavoring, and preservatives. Rather than buying an expensive and unhealthy drink, you can easily make a healthier version at home. By using maple syrup and spices, you not only save money but also enjoy a more natural alternative to the Starbucks version.

Delicious

A juniper latte has unique flavors and an evergreen aroma, perfect for Holiday season or any time of the year! The juniper and sage add earthy pine flavors, while the nutmeg and vanilla round out the bright notes with warming floral notes. These flavors combined with caramelized maple syrup and creamy steamed milk are perfect when combined with rich and bitter espresso. This drink is a good way to enjoy something that’s not too sweet, but still comforting and warm (perfect during the colder months!)

juniper berry latte in mug birds eye view

What are Juniper Berries?

A juniper tree is an evergreen plant, and the lovely seed cones of the plant are small and purple (resembling little berries). The main flavor of aromatic juniper berries consist of pine-like and citrus notes, and while it may be somewhat of an acquired taste, juniper is amazing in a wintery latte! The first time I made the simple syrup for this latte, the smell of the juniper berries cooking was a bit strange, and I couldn’t imagine how it would taste. Once I took the first sip, I was hooked! The combination of spices with the taste and aroma of juniper berry and maple syrup was incredible, perfect when combined with espresso and steamed milk.

Simple Ingredients in This Juniper Berry Latte

Whole milk: I prefer to use use dairy milk in my lattes, with my favorite milk being pasture raised and non-homogenized. If you choose to use a non-dairy alternative, watch out for unhealthy ingredients like thickeners and sweeteners!

Espresso: a double shot of espresso is used in this latte, perfectly contrasting the sweet and aromatic juniper syrup. You can use strong coffee made with an espresso machine, or use a moka pot instead if you prefer. Check out my favorite plastic and aluminum free stove top espresso maker at the bottom of this post! If you are enjoying this beverage cold, feel free to use cold brew coffee.

Maple syrup: the simple syrup in the recipe is made using maple syrup instead of processed sugar for the perfect sweetness! While it simmers with spices and herbs, is gently caramelizes, giving it an extra rich taste.

Juniper berries: add bright citrusy pine flavors to this unique coffee drink. You can often find whole berries at a health food store or specialty spice shop. Make sure to use whole berries instead of ground juniper berries.

Sage: gives this winter latte earthy and woody pine tree flavors.

Nutmeg: adds warm and nutty notes to the simple syrup.

Vanilla extract: compliments the earthy, piney and warm tastes with natural sweetness and floral notes.

How to Serve This Juniper Berry Latte

Serve it hot: my favorite way to enjoy this winter flavor latte is nice and hot on a cold morning! Enjoy this warm drink with breakfast or as a mid-morning snack.

Pour it over ice: this drink it also delicious cold! Instead of steamed milk, use chilled milk and pour the prepared drink over ice in your favorite glass. You can use cold brew instead of espresso for a cold version if you prefer.

How to Store Juniper Syrup

You can make the juniper berry syrup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it! Store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

How to Make a Juniper Latte

homemade juniper latte recipe ingredients

Make the Juniper Berry Syrup (Two Servings)

Combine water, maple syrup, juniper berries, sage, nutmeg, and vanilla in a small saucepan.

Bring to a simmer, then reduce to medium low and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure the syrup doesn’t stick to the bottom as it thickens and slightly caramelizes.

Strain cooked syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl or glass storage container. Discard spices.

Make the Juniper Latte (One Serving)

Combine two shots (about 1/4 cup) of freshly brewed espresso and 2 tablespoons of homemade juniper syrup in your serving mug of choice.

Pour steamed milk into mug, combining with the coffee and syrup mixture as you pour.

Alternatively, serve as an iced latte by combining coffee and syrup mixture with cold milk, then pouring over ice in a glass.

Enjoy!

Looking for More Cold Weather Drink Recipes?

Check out this Homemade Peppermint Mocha for a wintery refreshment, or this healthy Sweet Potato Latte with warming fall spice!