Low Carb Iced Latte Recipe 🧋

Published July 8, 2024 by
Scott Groth
| Post updated: November 23, 2024 |
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Iced Latte is one of my absolute favorite drinks to make! It has become my “go-to” drink whenever I want a refreshing treat that fits perfectly into my low carb lifestyle. There's something magical about watching the cream swirl into the coffee, creating those mesmerizing patterns. The end result is a rich, creamy latte that’s both satisfying and delicious.

I make this recipe almost year-round—it’s not just for hot summer days! It’s the perfect pick-me-up in the fall or early spring too. Let's jump into the kitchen and see how it all comes together.

This recipe is: Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free and Vegetarian.

7 Reasons To Love This Recipe

Ready to fall in love with your new favorite drink? Here’s why:

It’s a latte that’s cold and delicious. What’s not to love?
The cream mixed with the coffee creates a velvety texture.
It’s mesmerizing to watch the cream and coffee dance in the glass.
Low carb-friendly with natural sugar substitutes.
Perfect for a quick energy boost in the morning or afternoon.
Can be made completely caffeine-free.
Loads of variations to make it your own.

Is Iced Latte Low Carb?

Yes!! Iced latte is low carb. This iced latte recipe is perfect for low carb and keto diets, with just 2 g net carb counts per 12-ounce serving (including the ice).

What is an Iced Latte?

An iced latte is a popular coffee-based beverage that combines espresso or strong coffee with chilled milk or cream, served over ice. Unlike traditional hot lattes, which are steamed milk with a shot of espresso, an iced latte offers a refreshing twist by incorporating cold ingredients. The result is a smooth, creamy drink with a balanced flavor profile, where the espresso or coffee provides a robust base that is mellowed by the milk or cream. Typically, an iced latte can be customized with various milk options, sweeteners, and flavorings, making it a versatile choice for coffee lovers seeking a cool and satisfying beverage.

Iced Latte vs Iced Coffee

Understanding the differences between an iced latte and an iced coffee can help satisfy specific preferences for flavor and texture. An iced latte starts with a base of espresso or strong coffee combined with chilled milk or cream. This results in a creamy and slightly sweet beverage, perfect for those who enjoy a milder coffee flavor with a touch of richness.

In contrast, an iced coffee is simply brewed coffee that has been cooled and poured over ice. It maintains a stronger coffee taste, making it ideal for those who prefer a straightforward, bold coffee experience without added dairy or sweetness.

While both drinks are served cold and over ice, their distinct ingredients and preparation methods cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you opt for the creamy smoothness of an iced latte or the robust simplicity of an iced coffee depends on whether you prefer your coffee experience to be rich and indulgent or strong and straightforward.

Iced Latte Ingredient List

Below is the list of ingredients you'll need to make iced chai tea latte:

8 ounces chilled brewed coffee
4 ounces heavy cream
2 teaspoons monk fruit sweetener
12 ounces ice cubes

Ingredient Substitutions

Looking to mix things up? Here are some tasty alternatives you can use:

Heavy cream: You can make this with coconut milk, coconut cream, unsweetened almond milk, or even half-and-half. I choose the highest fat heavy cream that I can find.
Monk fruit sweetener: Substitute with erythritol, allulose, stevia, or any other natural sugar substitute. Each brand and type of sweetener has a different level of sweetness, so taste first and adjust accordingly.

Additional Ingredients

Want to take your iced latte to the next level? Here are some delicious additions that pair perfectly:

Sugar-free syrups: If you know, you know! There are some really tasty sugar-free coffee syrups out there in flavors like caramel, hazelnut, keto coffee syrup, sugar-free vanilla syrup, and more. Try any flavored syrup as per your liking, but don't add maple syrup as it is not low carb.
Stevia drops: If you want something a little more natural than the sugar-free syrups, which often are made with artificial liquid sweeteners, try a couple of drops of vanilla or cinnamon liquid stevia. If you like stevia, it is delicious with coffee drinks!
Keto whipped cream: If you really want to make this drink, then take the extra five minutes to make some sugar-free whipped cream. Adding a dollop on top of each iced latte is just amazing.
MCT oil: Some days, I need a bit of an energy boost that I know comes with some MCT oil. I find that it does not incorporate well just by mixing, so I’ll add all the ingredients along with a tablespoon of MCT oil into the speed blender. Bam. Now it’s an iced coffee shake.
Shaved dark chocolate: I love taking out the microplane and shaving some 100% dark chocolate on top of this strong coffee, particularly if I have taken the time to make some whipped cream!
Spices: To enjoy different iced latte flavors, garnish with cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice!

Note: These ingredients are not part of the original recipe—use them to enhance or customize the instant coffee to your liking.

Tools Required

Here is the list of tools you'll need to make iced latte recipe:

Coffee machine (if making at home)
Measuring cups and spoons
Pitcher
Whisk
Glasses

How To Make Iced Latte: Complete Cooking Guide

Cooking Method

No-cook recipe

Instructions

Brew the coffee and chill it. Pour into a pitcher or mixing bowl.
Add the monk fruit sweetener and whisk until dissolved.
Fill two glasses with ice to the top.
Pour the sweetened coffee over the ice, dividing it evenly between the glasses.
Pour half of the cream into each tall glass.
Stir gently to combine.
Garnish as desired.
Enjoy ice cold.

Step 1: Prepare the coffee and sweetener.

Step 2: Whisk the coffee and sweetener mixture until well combined.

Step 3: Pour the sweetened coffee over a glass filled with ice cubes.

Step 4: Continue pouring the coffee until the glass is nearly full.

Step 5: Pour cream into the iced coffee.

Step 6: Stir the coffee and cream mixture to combine and serve immediately.

💡 My Pro Tip

Here are a few tips that might help you out. First, you can use hot coffee in this recipe, but keep in mind that the ice cubes will melt quickly, resulting in a thinner consistency. If you prefer a lighter latte over a rich, velvety iced latte, there's no need to wait for the coffee to cool.

⏲️ Time-Saving Tips

Opt for store-bought cold brewed coffee. It’s the biggest time-saver, providing a week’s worth of iced lattes from one jug. Just ensure it only contains concentrated coffee and water, with no hidden sugars.
If you prefer not to buy cold brewed coffee, brew a stronger-than-usual pot. Let the coffee grounds cool to room temperature and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Keeping the process as chill as the drink itself.
When making a slightly sweetened latte like this recipe, whisk in your natural sugar substitute while the freshly brewed coffee is still hot. This helps the sugar dissolve quickly, making your daily coffee mix prep even easier!

What To Serve With Iced Latte Recipe?

Iced latte is sweet and refreshing, making it a perfect companion for delicious treats. Serve it with a keto donut, or try any of these yummy recipes:

Fluffy Blueberry Pancakes: The sweet, fruity flavors of blueberry pancakes complement the creamy texture of the coffee brew, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch combination.
Keto Waffles: Enjoy the crispy edges and fluffy interior of keto waffles alongside the smooth, chilled keto coffee for a satisfying low-carb breakfast or snack.
Peanut Butter Cookies: The nutty, savory taste of peanut butter cookies contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweetness of various coffee recipes, making it a perfect treat for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Keto Crepes: Delicate and thin keto crepes pair wonderfully with the iced latte, offering a light yet satisfying breakfast or dessert option that won’t weigh you down.
Keto Brownies: Savor the rich, chocolatey keto brownies alongside the refreshing latte. The combination of decadent chocolate and creamy cold brew coffee creates a heavenly treat for any time of day.

Is Starbucks iced latte recipe the same?

Starbucks iced latte typically includes shots of espresso, milk (usually whole milk or a milk alternative like almond milk), and ice. While the basic components are similar to homemade iced lattes, Starbucks may use its proprietary espresso blend and specific ratios to achieve its signature flavor. So, you can name this recipe a keto Starbucks Latte as it is a low-carb and keto iced latte.

Also, I have created a Low Carb Cheat Sheet for eating Low Carb At Starbucks so don't forget to check that as well.

Storage And Freezing Instructions

Storage

You can store the keto iced coffee in the fridge for up to 5 days without adding ice. Adding ice can dilute the flavor and thin out the consistency, so it's best to avoid if you plan to store leftovers or make coffee in advance.

Freezing

Consider freezing the latte into ice cube tray for future use. The coffee ice cubes are perfect for adding a flavorful twist to hot coffee during colder months. Store the frozen coffee drink in a freezer-safe bag for up to six months.

Recipe Conclusion

This cold coffee always steals the show when I entertain friends during the summer. It's not just refreshing and delicious—it's a delightful surprise. Guests often think I've gone all out with this chilled beverage. Still, truthfully, it only takes a few minutes to prepare something unforgettable.

As I mentioned, this is my go-to drink when I'm craving something special on my low carb journey. Also remember that it's not a dairy-free latte as it contains heavy cream, but the good thing is that it is low carb and keto. It instantly elevates my mood, and sharing it with friends adds to the enjoyment of embracing a low carb lifestyle. So, I make this quick Iced Latte in summers instead of going to my favorite coffee shop.

Feel free to leave any questions or suggestions about this best iced latte recipe in the comments below. You can also connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.

Other Drink Recipes To Try

Craving for more refreshing beverages like this low carb coffee? Check out these recipes:

FAQs

Is an iced latte just coffee with milk?

No, a proper iced latte includes coffee blended with cream and optionally sweetened for a creamy flavor.

What is the best milk for iced latte?

The best milk for an iced latte is typically whole milk or any milk with a higher fat content, as it enhances the creaminess and richness of the drink.

How many calories are in iced latte?

Iced latte calories can vary based on specific ingredients and portion size. Generally, a low carb iced latte made with cold brew or chilled coffee, heavy cream or a low carb milk substitute, and sweetened with a natural sugar substitute, can range from approximately 100 to 150 calories for a standard serving size of around 12 ounces.

Can I add one teaspoon vanilla extract to this iced latte?

One teaspoon of vanilla extract might be too strong for an iced latte, as it can overpower the other flavors. Typically, a few drops are sufficient to add a subtle vanilla flavor without overwhelming the coffee and cream.

Iced Coffee Latte

The perfect combination of coffee, cream and sweetener to brighten any day! If for no other reason, just make this drink to watch the coffe and cream dance together in the glass... it's mezmerizing! This is one of my favorite recipes for when I'm feeling a little restricted on the low carb diet: it keeps me from cheating!