Break out your favorite festive mugs, grab your slippers, and prepare to get cozy — ‘tis the season for frothy lattes! We’ve officially entered holiday latte season, and this year feels more delicious than ever. Think: Gingerbread lattes, eggnog, peppermint mochas, golden milk lattes, and more. The best part? We’ve transformed all your favorite treats into healthier blends!
Enter low-sugar holiday lattes that are equally as tasty, just as satisfying, and much better for your health and wellness goals!
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Quick Tips On How to Make Healthier Holiday Lattes
Before diving into the delicious healthier holiday recipes, here are some quick tips for when you want to quickly whip that healthy holiday latte with some simple swaps. P.S. These tips can come in handy when ordering out, too!
Dairy-free lattes: Use a creamy dairy-free base like oat milk or coconut milk, and swap dairy-based whipped cream for a plant-based alternative (like our DIY Coco Whip!)
Vegan lattes: Read the ingredient labels to avoid dairy and eggs. Choose dairy-free beverage bases like coconut or oat milk.
Low-sugar lattes: Always opt for unsweetened dairy or dairy-free milk, and avoid sneaky processed sugars found in creamers and toppings. If you want to sweeten your beverage, opt for a natural sweetener like dates, raw honey, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Protein-packed lattes: Give your latte a protein boost by adding in a scoop of collagen (without changing the flavor or consistency). Want to keep it plant-based? Add a spoonful of plant-based protein (like pea or pumpkin seed), or use dairy-free milk higher in protein, like hemp or soy milk.
Stress-reducing lattes: Give your latte a stress-reducing boost by incorporating antioxidant-rich superfoods like cacao and cinnamon and stress-busting adaptogens like reishi mushroom or ashwagandha powder.
RELATED: 8 Ways to Boost Your Coffee (Including Superfoods For All Your Needs)
3 Simple Ingredient Swaps to Make A Healthier Holiday Latte
#1 Dairy-Free Milk VS Dairy Milk
Even if you tolerate dairy, consider making a healthier holiday latte by going dairy-free. Dairy milk is often higher in calories and saturated fat than plant-based alternatives. Plus, it can be hard to digest.
Opting for unsweetened non-dairy milk is a great alternative! Here are the best non-dairy milk swaps based on texture and consistency:
Instead of heavy cream or half-and-half: Try full-fat (canned) coconut milk. It’s the creamiest non-dairy milk, most similar to half-and-half or heavy cream.
If you love whole milk: Try full-fat oat milk. Oat milk is a non-dairy milk replacement that’s most similar to whole milk with a similar taste, texture, and frothing ability.
For a lighter option: Try unsweetened almond milk. It is most comparable to reduced-fat milk, with a similar texture and taste.
RELATED: We Tried 5 Different Ways to Drink Oat Milk & One Was Our Favorite
#2 Natural Sweeteners VS Refined Sugar
A small-sized holiday latte can contain upwards of 30 to 50 grams of sugar — in one cup. If that’s a size small, imagine the sugar content in some of their larger cups! Now consider what size you typically order.
And just so you’re aware, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 36 grams of added sugar per day for men and no more than 25 grams for women. No judgment! But knowledge is power. The truth is that most cafes and store-bought lattes are full of sneaky sugars that are often refined.
By utilizing natural sweeteners, you can make tasty low-sugar holiday lattes that are still flavorful yet much healthier. Natural sweeteners like dates, maple syrup, and honey contain powerful nutrients like minerals, vitamins, and fiber that support everything from digestion to overall health.
#3 Whole Food Flavoring VS Artificial Flavorings & Syrups
Why use peppermint or vanilla-flavored syrup when you could flavor your cup with the real thing? Instead of using artificial flavor enhancers, opt for whole food flavor add-ins like vanilla, peppermint, or almond extract. Still need a touch of sweetness? Give it an all-natural boost with a touch of honey, date syrup, or maple syrup. Not only will it taste better, but it will be much healthier — trust us.
10 Low-Sugar Seasonal Lattes That Will Keep You Satisfied All Winter
#1 Healthy Hot Cocoa
Creamy, decadent, chocolatey, and… healthy! Made with antioxidant-rich cocoa and a small spoonful of pure maple syrup, indulge in this better-for-you option to get your cocoa fix.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy non-dairy milk (cashew milk, almond milk, oat milk)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder or raw cacao, unsweetened
- ½ – 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
To serve:
Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
Directions:
Step #1 Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over medium-high heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2 Continue stirring until hot, then pour into a mug and serve warm with optional coconut whip
Note: You can also pour heated mixture into a blender to froth, or use a handheld frother to blend.
#2 Peppermint Mocha
‘Tis the season… for low sugar lattes like yummy Peppermint Mochas! Made with creamy dairy-free milk, a hint of sweetener, and a splash of vanilla to complement the decadent notes of cocoa, peppermint, and coffee. Yum.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1-2 shots of espresso or ½ cup coffee or cold brew
- 1 cup full-fat oat milk or creamy non-dairy milk
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract, to taste
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
To serve:
- Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
Directions:
Step #1 Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over high medium heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2 Continue stirring until hot, then pour into a mug and serve warm with optional coconut whip
Note: You can also pour heated mixture into a blender to froth, or use a handheld frother to blend.
#3 Gingerbread Latte
This cozy latte is like a hug in a mug, and we just can’t get enough. The touch of molasses gives this festive drink its gingerbread taste, while the drizzle of maple syrup enhances the already delicious flavors. Low in sugar, dairy-free, and made with just a few simple ingredients, you’d never guess this latte was healthy.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat milk (or non-dairy milk of choice)
- 1 shot espresso (optional)
- 1-2 tsp molasses
- ½ tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ginger
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of nutmeg
- pinch of cloves
To serve:
- Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
Directions:
Step #1 Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over medium-high heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2 Continue stirring until hot, then pour into a mug and serve warm with optional coconut whip
Note: You can also pour heated mixture into a blender to froth or use a handheld frother to blend.
#4 Pumpkin Spice Latte
Because we couldn’t make a healthy holiday latte guide without the OG Pumpkin Spice Latte! This yummy blend is our go-to recipe, and believe us, it will be on repeat for the remainder of the year.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat milk (or non-dairy milk of choice)
- 1-2 shots of espresso or 1 cup strong coffee or cold brew
- 2 tbsp unsweetened pumpkin puree
- ½ – 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ginger
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of nutmeg
- pinch of cloves
Directions:
Step #1: Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over medium-high heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2: Continue stirring until hot, then pour into a mug and serve warm
Note: You can also pour heated mixture into a blender to froth or use a handheld frother to blend.
#5 Eggnog
Classically, eggnog is made with eggs, dairy, and loads of sugar. To make this latte healthier without changing the taste, we created a coconut-based blend that’s equally as creamy yet free from eggs and much lower in sugar. Now all can indulge in its creamy goodness! Spread the cheer.
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy dairy-free milk (we recommend full fat cashew, almond, or oat milk)
- ¾ cup full-fat canned coconut milk, unsweetened
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp of cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp ground cardamom
- Dash pink sea salt
To serve:
- Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
Directions:
Step #1 Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over medium-high heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2 Add all of the above ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend on medium-high for 1-2 minutes until creamy, smooth, and slightly frothy.
Step #3 Pour into a mug and serve warm with optional coconut whip
Note: You can also use a whisk or a handheld frother to blend.
#6 Spiced Chai Latte
Mhmm, cinnamon-spiced chai lattes. A cold-weather favorite! With warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, what’s not to love about this comforting blend? We’ll tell you — the hidden loads of sneaky sugar! Lucky for you, we’ve recreated the classic sugar-bomb blend into one of the tastiest low-sugar holiday lattes. Sip without guilt.
Serves: 1
Ingredients:
- 1 cup non-dairy milk
- 2 black tea bags
- 1-3 tsp raw honey
- 1-3 tsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- pinch ground nutmeg
- pinch ground cloves
- pinch ground cardamom
To serve:
- Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
Directions:
Step #1: Add the non-dairy milk and tea bags to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Lower to simmer and let the tea bags steep for 3-5 minutes. Once the tea has steeped, remove the tea bags from the saucepan.
Step #2: Add the remaining ingredients into the saucepan. Heat over medium heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #3: Add all of the above ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend on medium-high for 1-2 minutes until creamy, smooth, and slightly frothy.
Step #4: Pour into a mug and serve warm with optional coconut whip
Note: You can also use a whisk or a handheld frother to blend for step 3.
#7 Golden Milk Latte
Don’t let the addition of turmeric trick you into thinking all golden milk lattes are healthy! Keep in mind: many store-bought blends or pre-made mixes are full of sugar and other additives. One of the best ways to avoid this? Make your own! Get your golden fix with this low-sugar turmeric latte recipe.
Serves: 1-2
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups dairy-free milk (we love using a blend of almond and coconut, or coconut and oat milk)
- ¾ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1-3 tsp maple syrup
- Dash of black pepper
- 1-2 tsp coconut oil, optional
To serve:
- Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
Directions:
Step #1: Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over medium-high heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2: Add all of the above ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend on medium-high for 1-2 minutes until creamy, smooth, and slightly frothy.
Step #3: Pour into a mug and serve warm with optional coconut whip
Note: You can also use a whisk or a handheld frother to blend.
**Turmeric may stain your blender! To avoid this, use a handheld frother
#8 Dairy-Free Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Like a sweet cinnamon roll in beverage form. Except it’s low in sugar, free from dairy and fillers, and made with just five ingredients. Enjoy warm or used chilled coffee and serve over ice!
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp maple syrup or coconut sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 shots espresso or 1 cup coffee
- ½ cup full-fat oat, cashew, or almond milk
To serve:
- Dairy-free coconut whip (optional)
- Ground cinnamon
Directions:
Step #1: Combine all the ingredients into a saucepan over medium-high heat, using a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2: Continue stirring until hot, then pour into a mug and serve warm.
Optional: For a frothy blend, pour the heated mixture into a blender and blend until creamy or use a handheld frother to blend.
#9 Apple Cider Oat Milk Latte
Craving those holiday flavors but don’t want all the added sugar that comes with cafe-style lattes? Try making your own healthy, low-sugar holiday latte instead. This apple cider oat milk latte is dairy-free and so easy to make.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup cold-pressed apple juice or apple cider
- ½ – ¾ cup creamy oat milk
- ½ cup hot coffee (or 1-2 shots espresso)
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice, optional
- 1-2 tsp maple syrup
Directions:
Step #1: In a small saucepan, bring the cold-pressed cider and spices to a slight simmer over medium heat. Use a whisk to stir until smooth.
Step #2: Pour mixture into a high-speed blender with heated oat milk, coffee, and desired sweetener. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste test, adjusting any ingredients as necessary.
Step #3: Pour into a mug and enjoy warm.
#10 Spiced Green Tea Matcha Latte
This cinnamon-spiced green tea latte is low in sugar and every bit nice. Made with energizing antioxidant-rich matcha and a warming blend of spices, you’ll love this cozy fall drink as a healthy alternative to coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oat, almond, cashew, or non-dairy milk of choice, heated
- ½ – 1 tsp matcha powder
- ½ -1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1-2 tsp maple syrup or raw honey
Directions:
Step #1: In a high-speed blender, combine heated non-dairy milk with matcha powder, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and sweetener of choice. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste test, adjusting any ingredients as necessary.
Step #2: Pour into a mug and enjoy warm or serve over ice!
Bonus 3-Ingredient Coconut Whipped Cream Recipe
Because whipped cream is a must-have, and homemade is that much better (and healthier). This 3-ingredient coconut whipped cream requires no straining, and takes minutes to make. Keep in mind, this must be full-fat canned coconut milk! Low-fat or light options won’t work.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz.) can full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 1-2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Step #1: Chill the canned coconut milk in the fridge overnight and any mixing materials (such as your mixing bowl and beater) for at least 30 minutes prior to making your whipped cream. This is crucial to getting your coconut cream to whip and form a peak.
Step #2: Once you’re ready to start, remove your mixing materials and canned coconut milk from the fridge. Be mindful not to shake the canned coconut.
Step #3: Remove the lid from the canned coconut and scoop out the thick white layer of coconut cream on top. Add the thick cream to your chilled mixing bowl. Option to discard or reserve the leftover canned coconut water.
Step #4: Whip the cream until a peak forms and continue until the whipped cream is fluffy.
Step #5: Add the vanilla and maple syrup, then whip again for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step #6: Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use.
Healthy Add-ins & Toppings
Dairy-free chocolate chips — we love Enjoy Life, or Lily’s Stevia-Sweetened Chocolate Chips
Additional spices such as ginger and cinnamon
A drizzle of raw honey
Dairy-free coconut whipped cream (see our recipe above!)
Bonus Tip: How To Make Your Latte Extra Frothy
Now that you know how to make the healthiest low-sugar holiday lattes, we’ll let you in on one more secret: how to make your latte extra frothy!
The secret to success? It’s all about your base! Heating your liquid of choice before you froth it and choosing a non-dairy (or dairy milk) higher in fat are the two most important steps. Add-ins like coconut oil, ghee, and collagen also increase the frothiness, though these are optional.
All that’s left to do is blend away! For best results, use a high-speed blender or handheld frother. Then, sip away and enjoy the holiday season. Cheers!
