07-07-2025
I Tried The Viral Korean Banana Milk Latte
Originally spotted in Korean 7-Elevens, banana-infused coffees have been all over TikTok and Instagram. I've seen sooo many versions of the viral banana milk latte lately, so I had to try it out myself! I wish I could try one IRL, but instead, I'll have to be happy with my homemade version...
A lot of the versions I saw use pre-packaged banana milk that you can grab at a store like H-Mart, but I made mine completely from scratch using lightly caramelized bananas, whole milk (don't judge me), and some fresh stovetop espresso, inspired by a recipe from Audrey Leonard (aka @redcurrantbakery) with almost two million views.
P.S. You can use this fruit milk technique with other kinds of fruit! Strawberry milk? Yes, please. Blueberry? Wild, but could be delicious! Mango milk? Okay, I'll stop with the ideas here.
Step 1: Make the caramelized bananas!
This part might sound intimidating, but it's really not. Simply slice up one to two medium-ripe bananas, throw them in a small skillet, add one tablespoon of water, then sprinkle on 1/3 cup brown sugar (or any other sweetener you like, but brown sugar adds a caramel vibe!). I used one banana because I wanted a milder flavor, but you can use two if they're small or not super ripe. Cook over medium heat until the bananas begin to soften and the brown sugar has melted into a syrup, about three to four minutes. If you want to make enough for more than two large iced lattes, I'd double these quantities.
Step 2: Blend the bananas into the milk
Add the caramelized banana slices and two cups of whole, oat, or any other milk to a small blender. Blend until smooth, then pass through a fine mesh strainer (optional!) to remove any big pieces and make a super smooth banana milk.
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Step 3: Add any other flavorings you like
At this point, feel free to mix in any other flavorings like vanilla extract (one teaspoon was perfect for mine), a dash of cinnamon, a pinch of salt, or even a bit of maple syrup for a little extra sweetness. I advise tasting it first to see if you like it, then adding these optional ingredients!
Step 4: Make your espresso shots
I like to use a stovetop percolator to make my espresso. Whatever your method (Nespresso is totally fine!), pull a double shot of espresso. Fresh is best, but if you don't have a way to make any, you could substitute this with a two-ounce shot of cold brew concentrate, four to six ounces of ready-to-drink cold brew, or a standard serving of strong hot or iced coffee.
Step 5: Add ice and serve!
Add ice cubes to a tall drinking glass or mason jar. Pour as much milk as you want to use into the glass, then pour the espresso over the top and stir it up with a straw. Enjoy your homemade banana milk latte, you earned it!
The verdict: five out of five stars!!! Overall, I thought this was a great coffee shop-level drink to make at home and much cheaper than an $8 latte with tip.
It's super easy and adaptable since you can use cold brew if you don't have espresso, tweak the add-ins, etc., and I love the banana and coffee flavor combo. I will totally be trying this method with some other fruits, especially strawberries!
Have you tried the viral banana milk latte or tried making your own? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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