How to Make Cold Foam for Coffee at Home

Cold foam, a cold, frothy milk topping, was introduced by Starbucks in 2018 as an innovative twist on the classic steamed milk used in lattes and cappuccinos. This popular addition has since been mimicked by other coffee chains like Dunkin' and Jamba Juice. Now, you can channel your inner barista and create delicious cold foam at home to elevate your coffee experience.

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You'll save time and money by skipping the drive-through or coffee shop line. Ahead, we're spilling all the details and a step-by-step recipe. Ideal for topping a wide variety of coffee shop favorites , our DIY cold foam can hold its own atop your go-to coffee drink or tea, slowly seeping down to infuse it with just enough richness and vanilla flavor.

What Is DIY Cold Foam?

Cold foam is frothed milk—or a nondairy milk alternative —that is often flavored with sweetener and extract. It's similar to the steamed milk used for lattes and cappuccinos, but served cold.

Since it doesn't melt into hot drinks, cold foam creates a light, sweet layer that gently settles into your beverage. You can add cold foam to many Starbucks drinks for an extra cost, and it's featured in cold brews, iced mochas, iced espressos, iced matcha tea lattes, and the popular "pink drink."

Ingredients for DIY Cold Foam

You only need three ingredients to make cold foam.

• Milk (or alternative "milk"): Skim milk is ideal because it has more protein per ounce than whole milk or 2 percent , making it whip into a thick, stable foam. Other options include heavy cream, half-and-half, or plant-based alternatives like coconut cream, almond, oat, or coconut milk.

• Sweetener: Simple syrup is preferred for its neutral sweetness. To make it, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then transfer to a mason jar and use within a month. You can also use maple syrup , honey, or flavored coffee syrups.

• Extract or spice: This optional step enhances flavor. We recommend vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste . For variety, try matcha powder for tea lattes, pumpkin spice for coffee, or a small spoonful of fruit puree. Other extracts, like almond or maple, also work well.

How to Make Cold Foam for Coffee

Making homemade cold foam is easy and impressive. Gather your ingredients and choose your foaming tool from these options:

Foaming Tool Options

• Milk frother: Quick and compact.

• Immersion blender: Like a larger milk frother; useful for tasks like soup-making .

• French press: Pour ingredients in and pump until foamy.

• Regular blender : Great for large batches. Blend until foamy.

• Mason jar: Shake vigorously for foam and an arm workout.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup milk (or alternative)

• 1 teaspoon simple syrup (or other sweetener)

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (or other flavor)

Step 1: Add Ingredients to Jar

Add milk, syrup, and extract to a tall glass, pitcher, or jar . Fully submerge the whisk of your milk frother.

Step 2: Froth Milk Mixture

Turn on the frother, blending until the milk thickens, about 20 seconds. Lift the wand gradually until it's out of the milk.

Step 3: Add to Coffee

Spoon the foam gently over your drink.

How to Store Cold Foam

Store any extra foam in a mason jar with a lid, refrigerated for up to three days. Before using, revive it with a milk frother or by shaking the jar vigorously until foamy.

This DIY cold foam can replace milk or cream in your coffee or tea drinks, or complement them. Leave it as a sweet topping or stir it in for rich flavor. Try it over spirit-free drinks or cocktails like eggnog , hot chocolate, or milk punch for a special touch.

Frequently asked Questions

Is cold foam just whipped cream?

No. Though both use cream, cold foam is lighter, while whipped cream is thicker and more stable. Cold foam often includes flavorings and sweeteners.

Is cold foam healthier than creamers?

Yes. Cold foam usually has lower fat and calorie content, especially when made with nonfat milk, compared to traditional creamers.

What is the healthiest thing to add to coffee?

Consider natural sweeteners, low-fat milk or cream, and cinnamon. These options add flavor and texture for a great cup of coffee.

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