Copy Cat Starbucks Vanilla Steamer

This Copy Cat Starbucks Vanilla Steamer is rich, cream, and sweet–and it has NO caffeine or coffee, so it’s perfect for kids too.

One of my standard cold-weather orders at Starbucks is a Vanilla Steamer, which is simply warm milk with vanilla syrup topped with frothed milk–and sometimes, if I’m throwing caution to the wind, whipped cream. It’s also a drink kids can enjoy too, since it’s coffee-free and caffeine-free.

I started making these a few years ago when it occurred to me that I could treat myself (for a lot less money) at home. I could also control what went into my mug. And I could save money. Lots of it!

You can easily adjust the sweetness in this Copy Cat Starbucks Vanilla Steamer. I add a couple drops of almond extract, which makes everything addictively delicious.

And frothed milk! Lots of frothed milk. Because frothed milk feels extra-super-special even though it’s just milk with a bunch of air in it (don’t tell my kids). 

How to make frothed milk

For the photos here, I used the Capresso Frother (it’s a splurge for sure–I received a free one a few years ago–but whips up stellar foam).

I also an inexpensive, handheld milk frothers which you can use to make the top foamy.

A much more low-tech method: Put your warm Vanilla Steamer in a big, heat-safe glass jar, close it tightly with a lid, wrap it in a kitchen towel, and shake vigorously before pouring it into a mug.

Take your Vanilla Steamer to the next level with a dollop of real whipped cream and some sprinkles. (Then high-five yourself for saving a bunch of money.)

How to make real whipped cream

• Chill a glass or metal mixing bowl and beaters in the fridge until they’re very cold (be sure your heavy whipping cream is well chilled too).
• Place 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, and 1 cup heavy whipping cream in the bowl and beat with a mixer on medium speed for 3-5 minutes or until the whipped cream forms stiff peaks.
• Store any leftover whipped cream in an airtight container in the fridge.

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Copy Cat Starbucks Vanilla Steamer

Yield: 2

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

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Ingredients

• 2 cups milk
• 3 teaspoons honey
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 drops almond extract
• 2 dollops real whipped cream, optional

Instructions

Stovetop directions

1. Place milk, honey, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a small saucepan and stir until combined.
2. Heat over medium-low heat until steaming, stirring constantly (don't allow it to boil!).
3. Create a foamy top by using a frother or by shaking it vigorously in a heat-proof jar.
4. Top with whipped cream (if using).

Microwave directions:

1. Place milk, honey, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a mug and stir until combined.
2. Microwave on HIGH for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
3. Create a foamy top by using a frother or by shaking it vigorously in a heat-proof jar.
4. Top with whipped cream (if using).

Recommended Products

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

• 
  Capresso Pro Milk Frother for Cappuccino, Espresso, Latte and Hot Chocolate
• 
  Aerolatte Milk Foamer, The Original Steam-Free Frother, 8.5-Inch, Polished-Chrome Finish
• 
  McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
• 
  McCormick Pure Almond Extract, 2 oz

Nutrition Information:

Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1 cup
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 177Total Fat: 5gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 22mgSodium: 128mgCarbohydrates: 22gFiber: 0gSugar: 9gProtein: 9g