There’s something magical about Starbucks’ Lavender Cold Foam—it’s light, creamy, and infused with a subtle floral sweetness that feels like a sip of serenity. While it’s a treat to grab one at the coffee shop, why not recreate that luxurious experience right at home? With just a few simple ingredients, we can whip up this dreamy topping to elevate any iced coffee or cold brew.
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Starbucks Lavender Cold Foam at home, we need two distinct components: a homemade lavender syrup and the luscious cold foam. Follow these lists closely for precise measurements and preparation.
For The Lavender Syrup
We’ll prepare a fragrant, homemade syrup that forms the base of the lavender flavoring. This is what you’ll need:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender (available in specialty stores or online)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For The Cold Foam
The creamy consistency and delightful sweetness of cold foam are easy to achieve with just a few ingredients. Here’s what we’ll use:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (chilled)
- 2 tablespoons milk (any variety – whole, almond, or oat works great)
- 1-2 tablespoons lavender syrup (adjust to taste)
- Optional: A pinch of sea salt for depth of flavor
Tools And Equipment
To replicate Starbucks-level Lavender Cold Foam in your kitchen, having the right tools and equipment is crucial. Here’s what we need for an effortlessly creamy and perfectly blended topping:
Essential Tools
- Milk frother or handheld frother: A handheld frother works best to achieve that smooth, velvety texture. This will help us incorporate air into the liquid, resulting in the light foam consistency Starbucks is known for.
- Electric blender: If you want heavier foam or are making a larger batch, an electric blender is an excellent alternative to a frother.
- Small saucepan: For making the lavender syrup from scratch, we’ll use a small saucepan to simmer the ingredients evenly.
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth: This is essential to strain the dried lavender from the syrup, ensuring a silky smooth liquid.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision matters. We’ll use these to ensure every ingredient, from the lavender syrup to the milk and cream, is measured exactly.
- Mixing bowl: A small mixing bowl will hold the cold foam ingredients as we froth or blend them.
- Spoon or spatula: For stirring the lavender syrup as it simmers, or integrating and mixing the ingredients before frothing.
Optional, But Helpful
- Kitchen thermometer: If you’re new to syrup-making, a thermometer can ensure the syrup doesn’t overheat and retains optimal flavor.
- Cold foam pitcher: Mimic Starbucks’ aesthetic by using a specific cold foam pitcher to pour the blend over your coffee or cold brew.
Quick Reference Table for Tools
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Milk frother | For creating the creamy cold foam texture. |
| Electric blender | An alternative to frothers, great for making larger quantities. |
| Small saucepan | Essential for creating the lavender syrup. |
| Fine mesh strainer | Strains out dried lavender for smooth syrup. |
| Measuring cups & spoons | Ensures the accuracy of all ingredients. |
| Mixing bowl | Holds ingredients during the blending or frothing process. |
| Spoon or spatula | For stirring and scraping during preparation. |
| Thermometer (optional) | Maintains the ideal syrup temperature. |
| Cold foam pitcher (optional) | Adds a professional touch while serving cold foam with your beverages. |
Having this setup ensures we can easily make a consistently delicious Lavender Cold Foam at home. Keep these tools handy, as they not only simplify the process but also elevate the overall experience.
Directions
Let’s recreate the luxurious Starbucks Lavender Cold Foam step by step at home. Follow these instructions to make the perfect lavender syrup and creamy cold foam to top your next coffee.
Make The Lavender Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine:
- 1 cup granulated sugar,
- 1 cup water, and
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender.
- Set the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar. Heat until the mixture just begins to simmer.
- Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. This helps extract the lavender’s aromatic flavor.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract for added sweetness and depth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a small bowl or jar to remove the lavender pieces.
- Allow the syrup to cool completely before use. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Prepare The Cold Foam
- In a mixing bowl or container, combine:
- 1/4 cup heavy cream,
- 1/4 cup milk (any variety works, but 2% or whole milk creates extra creaminess), and
- 1 tablespoon lavender syrup (adjust to taste).
- Using a milk frother or handheld frother, whip the mixture until it becomes light, airy, and forms gentle peaks. If preparing for multiple servings, use an electric blender.
- For an added flavor kick, sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt before frothing.
- Spoon or gently pour the finished lavender cold foam over your iced coffee or cold brew.
Assembly
Now that we have the lavender syrup and the cold foam ready, it’s time to bring everything together for the ultimate café-style experience. This final step ensures the perfect harmony of floral sweetness and creamy texture for your favorite iced beverages.
Combining The Lavender Syrup With Cold Foam
- Prepare Your Base Drink: Start by choosing your coffee base. Whether you’re using iced coffee, cold brew, or even iced matcha, pour it into a chilled glass leaving about 1.5 inches of space at the top.
- Gather the Foam Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk (use whole milk or your preferred alternative like oat or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lavender syrup
- Optional: Add a small pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavor profile.
- Froth the Cold Foam: Use a milk frother, handheld frother, or electric blender to froth the mixture. Blend until it reaches a light and airy consistency resembling a cloud.
- Spoon or Pour the Lavender Cold Foam: Carefully layer the cold foam on top of your iced drink. Use the back of a spoon to evenly spread it, ensuring every sip captures the luscious lavender-rich foam.
Pro Tip: For an aesthetic barista-style look, swirl a few drops of leftover lavender syrup on top or garnish with a sprinkle of dried lavender.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Drink Preparation | Pour iced coffee, cold brew, or iced matcha into a glass leaving space on top. |
| Foam Ingredients | Combine heavy cream, milk, lavender syrup, and optional sea salt. |
| Frothing | Use a frother or blender to achieve a creamy, airy texture. |
| Assembly | Spread or pour lavender cold foam over your beverage to finish. |
Tips And Variations
Optimize the Lavender Syrup
- Use high-quality dried culinary lavender, as regular lavender might not be food-safe or provide the same gentle flavor.
- Adjust sweetness by modifying the granulated sugar quantity. For a subtler taste, reduce by 1–2 tablespoons.
- For a twist, add a splash of lemon juice to the syrup for a citrusy balance to the floral notes.
Cold Foam Customizations
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or non-dairy creamers like oat milk or coconut cream for a lighter or vegan-friendly option.
- Add a small amount of honey or maple syrup for extra natural sweetness.
- Experiment with ratios! A 2:1 mix of heavy cream to milk creates an ultra-rich foam, while equal parts make a lighter texture.
Tools and Techniques
- If you don’t have a handheld frother, improvise by using a whisk, a French press, or even shaking the mixture vigorously in a mason jar.
- Keep the cold foam mixture chilled before frothing—colder temperatures yield firmer foam with more stability.
- For a denser café-style topping, try an electric blender, using its lowest setting for better control.
Flavors and Garnishes
- Replace lavender syrup with rose or jasmine syrup to explore floral alternatives.
- Boost aromatic appeal by sprinkling dried lavender buds, a touch of cinnamon, or even lemon zest over the foam layer.
- Infuse extra depth by adding a drop of almond extract alongside the vanilla extract in the lavender syrup.
Base Drink Variations
| Base Drink | Flavor Pairing |
|---|---|
| Cold Brew | Enhances the bold coffee, balancing floral sweetness |
| Iced Matcha Latte | Complements earthy matcha with a delicate lavender touch |
| Iced Chai Latte | Layers warm spices with the calming floral aroma |
| Iced Earl Grey Tea | Lavender and bergamot create a classic, dreamy pairing |
Batch-Making Tips
- Double or triple the lavender syrup recipe to store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. This saves time and allows quick access for future batches.
- Pre-make cold foam mixtures by combining heavy cream and milk, storing them in the fridge, and only frothing them before use for optimal freshness.
Pro Serving Suggestions
- Serve in clear glasses to showcase the frothy lavender foam layer against your drink base.
- Offer a drizzle of leftover lavender syrup at the table for customizable sweetness.
- Pair this lavender-infused delight with a light pastry, such as a lemon scone or almond croissant, for a perfect café-style experience at home.
Make-Ahead Instructions
When crafting Starbucks Lavender Cold Foam at home, preparing certain components in advance can save time and ensure the best results. Let’s walk through how to effectively make and store the lavender syrup and the cold foam mixture for future use.
Lavender Syrup: Prep and Storage
The lavender syrup is the foundation of this recipe, and the great news is that it stores beautifully for extended use.
- Start by doubling or tripling the syrup recipe if you plan to use it over the week.
- Once the syrup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight glass jar or bottle.
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. A clean, sealed container will help preserve its freshness and aromatic floral flavor.
- When needed, give the syrup a gentle shake before use to maintain consistency.
Pro Tip: Label the jar with the date to track its freshness.
Cold Foam Mixture: Prep in Small Batches
While the cold foam is best frotted fresh to preserve its light and airy texture, the ingredients can be combined ahead of time. Here’s how to prepare:
- Whisk together heavy cream, milk, and the required amount of lavender syrup. Adjust sweetness as desired.
- Pour the mixture into a sealed jar or container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For best results, froth just before serving. A handheld frother, blender, or cold foam pitcher works seamlessly.
| Item | Prep Method | Storage Time | Storage Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lavender Syrup | Simmer and cool completely | Up to 2 weeks | Airtight container in the fridge |
| Cold Foam Mixture | Combine cream, milk, and syrup | Up to 3 days | Sealed jar in the fridge |
Quick Assembly Tips
When it’s time to serve, retrieve your prepared components:
- Froth the cold foam mixture until it’s airy and smooth.
- Drizzle your pre-made lavender syrup into your chosen iced beverage.
- Layer the freshly frothed foam on top and garnish for that professional café finish.
Conclusion
Creating Starbucks-inspired Lavender Cold Foam at home is simpler than it seems and adds a touch of elegance to any iced drink. With a few quality ingredients, the right tools, and a little creativity, we can craft a café-worthy experience in our own kitchens.
Whether we’re enjoying it over cold brew, iced matcha, or a chai latte, this aromatic foam elevates every sip. By preparing the lavender syrup and foam mixture in advance, we can save time while still delivering that luxurious, handcrafted feel. Let’s embrace the art of homemade indulgence and impress ourselves with this delightful treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Starbucks’ Lavender Cold Foam?
Starbucks’ Lavender Cold Foam is a creamy, light topping with a delicate floral sweetness that enhances iced beverages. It pairs perfectly with iced coffee, cold brew, or other chilled drinks for a serene café-style experience.
Can I make Lavender Cold Foam at home?
Yes, you can make Lavender Cold Foam at home with simple ingredients like homemade lavender syrup, heavy cream, and milk. Proper tools like a frother or blender ensure a smooth, airy texture similar to Starbucks.
What ingredients are needed for lavender syrup?
To make lavender syrup, you’ll need granulated sugar, water, dried culinary lavender, and pure vanilla extract. These ingredients create a flavorful syrup perfect for Lavender Cold Foam.
How do I froth the cold foam?
Froth the cold foam by combining heavy cream, milk, and lavender syrup, then using a milk frother, handheld frother, or blender. Froth until light and airy for the best results.
What tools do I need to make Lavender Cold Foam?
Key tools include a milk frother, blender, saucepan, fine mesh strainer, measuring cups, and a spoon or spatula. Optional tools like a kitchen thermometer enhance precision.
Can I use non-dairy ingredients for Lavender Cold Foam?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream and milk with non-dairy options like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut cream to create a plant-based version of Lavender Cold Foam.
How long does lavender syrup last?
Homemade lavender syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it convenient for multiple uses.
Can I prepare Lavender Cold Foam ahead of time?
You can refrigerate the cold foam mixture (without frothing) for up to three days. Froth it just before serving for the best texture and consistency.
What drinks pair well with Lavender Cold Foam?
Lavender Cold Foam pairs beautifully with iced coffee, cold brew, iced matcha, iced chai, and iced Earl Grey tea, creating a luxurious and refreshing beverage experience.
Are there garnish ideas for Lavender Cold Foam drinks?
Yes, you can garnish your drink with a drizzle of lavender syrup, a sprinkle of dried lavender, or a touch of sea salt for added flavor and aesthetic appeal.