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