Cinnamon Maple Steamer
Make this simple Vermont-style Cinnamon Maple Steamer your new go-to for cold days. Creamy, sweet, and frothy milk infused with maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon makes for the perfect pick-me-up.
What’s a steamer?
For anyone new to steamers, think of it as a warm, frothy milk drink flavored with sweet syrups or spices—similar to a latte, but without the coffee! Steamers are especially popular for kids or anyone who wants a coffeehouse feel at home, minus the caffeine.
For similar fall-inspired drinks, check out our homemade pumpkin spice latte and gingerbread latte recipes!
What you’ll need to make a cinnamon maple steamer
- Milk: 1 ½ cups of your favorite milk. Dairy milk works great, but almond or oat milk also froth up nicely.
- Maple Syrup: 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup for sweetness. It’s worth using the real stuff here!
- Ground Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon, for seasonal flavor that perfectly complements the maple.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for a subtle vanilla touch.
- Whipped Cream & Cinnamon for Garnish (optional): The whipped cream adds a little extra decadence, and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top is a must for that final touch.
How to make a homemade steamer
In a small saucepan over medium heat, gently heat the milk until it’s steaming but not boiling. Boiling the milk can affect its flavor and texture, so keep an eye on it! Stir occasionally to prevent scorching, especially if you’re using dairy milk.
Once the milk is hot, stir in the maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. You may need a whisk here! Taste it here if you want to adjust sweetness or spice levels. This recipe is totally adaptable.
If you love that creamy, café-style foam, you can use a milk frother or whisk the milk vigorously by hand for about 30 seconds.
Carefully pour the steamer into your favorite mug. Add whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
Tips for the best maple spice steamer
- Quality Ingredients Matter: Since this drink is so simple, high-quality maple syrup and vanilla extract make all the difference in flavor.
- Temperature Control: Heating the milk just until steaming keeps it smooth and prevents that “cooked” taste.
What is the difference between a steamer and a latte?
A steamer is steamed milk flavored with syrups or spices and contains no coffee. A latte is steamed milk mixed with espresso, providing a coffee flavor and caffeine.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk, or non-dairy milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Heat the Milk: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk until it is steaming but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching.1 ½ cups milk
- Add the Flavorings: Once the milk is hot, whisk in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Continue whisking until everything is well combined and smooth.2 tablespoons maple syrup½ teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Froth the Milk (Optional): For a frothy texture, use a milk frother or whisk the milk vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Serve: Pour the steamer into a mug. If desired, top with whipped cream and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for garnish.
Suggested Equipment
Notes
- The calories listed are an approximation based on the ingredients in the recipe card and a serving size of 1 drink (about 1 ½ cups of milk). Actual calories will vary. Calories don’t include whipped cream since it’s an optional garnish.