Cozy Hot English Breakfast Tea Latte Recipe

Make a cozy hot English Breakfast Tea Latte with this simple recipe. English Breakfast tea is a classic black tea blend that is perfect for adding a bit of milk and sugar too.

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One of my top favorite tea blends is English Breakfast Tea. I even wrote a whole article on it. I always have some in my stash so I can prepare a cup when the whim hits me. While a classic cup of tea with a splash of cream and sugar is already perfected, making a tea latte is an easy way to elevate it with steamed milk that is foamed into a perfect cloud. This tea latte is full of classic comfort flavors and is so warm and comforting. So let’s get started!

Ingredients for an English Breakfast Tea Latte

• English Breakfast Tea – There are many brands available, choose your favorite!
• Water– For the best flavor, I recommend filtered water.
• Milk –  You can use any type of milk: whole, skim, almond, oat – whatever you prefer!
• Vanilla (optional)-  I like to add a splash of vanilla extract for an extra hint of sweetness.
• Cinnamon (optional) –  For a warm and cozy flavor and finish, add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

How to Make an English Breakfast Tea Latte

Prepare Tea

Add tea to a large serving mug, (if you prefer loose leaf, first add loose tea to a tea ball or tea filters.)

Pour over hot water and steep for 5 minutes. 

Remove tea solids.

Sweeten Tea

While tea is still piping hot, stir in sweetener. 

Prepare Milk

Heat milk to about 150°F and then foam until milk has doubled in size. 

Pour milk over tea.

Enjoy!

Recipe Notes for the Best Royal English Breakfast Tea Latte

• For an extra comforting twist, add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to milk before heating.
• If you don’t have a milk frother, heat milk on the stove and use a whisk or hand blender to produce foam.
• Sprinkle cinnamon on top for added flavor and aroma.
• Try experimenting with different types of milk for distinctive flavor profiles— almond, soy, and oat milk all make delicious alternatives.
• If you prefer your tea stronger, add more tea leaves. Just be careful not to oversteep as it can lead to a bitter taste. (see here for making strong tea the right way!)
• For a refreshing summer variant, prepare an Iced English Breakfast Tea Latte by chilling the tea and serving it over ice. You can also use cold-frothed milk.
• If you’re watching your sugar intake, swap the sugar or simple syrup with a natural sweetener like stevia or honey.
• For a cozy winter treat, add a dash of nutmeg or clove along with the cinnamon.
• Always use fresh, high-quality tea for the best flavor. Remember, the better the tea, the better the latte.

What is an English Breakfast Tea Latte?

An English Breakfast Tea Latte is a warming, delightful twist on the classic English Breakfast Tea. This tea blend, steeped in tradition, traces its origins back to the early 19th century. It was during this era that the concept of ‘Breakfast Tea’ became popular in England. The robust and hearty nature of this tea, typically a blend of Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan teas, made it a perfect morning pick-me-up.

The term ‘latte’ is borrowed from the Italians and traditionally refers to a drink made from steamed milk and espresso. However, the concept of a ‘tea latte’ emerged much later and is generally attributed to the wave of specialty coffee and tea shops that have popularized variations on classic drinks over the past few decades. In this case, it refers to the addition of warm, frothy milk to the strong, full-bodied English Breakfast Tea, creating a smooth, creamy concoction that’s perfect for cozy mornings or chilly afternoons.

So, an English Breakfast Tea Latte is a delightful fusion of British tradition and modern café culture, offering a comforting, rich and creamy beverage enjoyed around the world. Whether served hot or iced, it’s a testament to the enduring versatility and appeal of tea.

Why You Will Love This English Breakfast Latte!

• This latte brings together the robust flavor of English Breakfast tea with the creaminess of steamed milk, creating a harmonious mixture that is both comforting and invigorating. Imagine the rich aroma of the tea leaves mingling with the sweetness of the milk, giving you a sensory experience like no other. 
• The addition of a bit of sugar or simple syrup enhances the flavor, while optional hints of vanilla and cinnamon offer a dash of warmth and spice. Whether you prefer it hot on a chilly morning, or iced on a warm afternoon, this latte is your versatile beverage for all seasons. 
• This twist on your classic tea is sure to delight and become a cherished part of your daily routine. 
• So, next time you crave something comforting, indulgent yet familiar, remember the English Breakfast Tea Latte. It’s more than just a drink, it’s a cozy hug in a cup.

What is English Breakfast Tea? 

English Breakfast tea is a blend of black teas, typically from Assam, Ceylon, and Kenya. This robust blend is traditionally served with milk and sugar to balance out the strong flavor. Its bold taste and rich aroma make it a perfect base for creating lattes.

FAQ

Does English Breakfast Tea Go Well with Milk?

Absolutely! The robust flavor of English Breakfast tea pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of steamed milk. Adding a touch of milk to your cup enhances the richness of the tea and creates a smooth, velvety texture. This pairing is perfect for those who prefer their tea on the sweeter side or for those looking to add a bit of indulgence to their daily cup. 

What are the Benefits of Royal English Breakfast Tea Latte?

Aside from its delicious taste, this latte also offers potential health benefits. Black tea is rich in antioxidants. Milk adds calcium to your diet, while cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, taking a few minutes out of your day to sit down and enjoy this latte can provide a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. A mug of English Breakfast Tea Latte is not just a beverage, but an experience that benefits both the body and mind. (source) (source) (source)

Can I Make an Iced Version of English Breakfast Tea Latte?

Absolutely! An Iced English Breakfast Tea Latte is a refreshing option for warmer days. Simply chill your tea before adding cold frothed milk. You might want to increase the strength of your tea slightly as it can be diluted when poured over ice.

Can I Use Other Types of Tea for This Latte Recipe?

While English Breakfast is the traditional choice for this latte, you can experiment with other types of black tea. Earl Grey, for example, could add a unique citrusy twist. Just keep in mind each tea has its own unique flavor profile which will impact the overall taste of your latte.

How Can I Froth Milk at Home Without a Frother?

No frother? No problem! You can heat the milk on the stove and then use a whisk or a hand blender to froth it. Alternatively, you can also put warm milk in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake it vigorously.

Do I Need to Use Fresh Tea Leaves Every Time I Make a Latte?

Yes, for the best flavor, it’s recommended to use fresh tea leaves each time you prepare a latte. Reused tea leaves have already released most of their flavor and won’t produce the same robust and rich taste.

More Tea Recipes!

• Blue Matcha Latte
• Vegan Chai Latte
• Vegan Matcha Latte

I would love to hear from you! Leave a comment below and let’s connect!