A few weeks ago while sitting at a signal light, I noticed a sign in front of our local coffee shop advertising a gingerbread latte. I loved the idea, but figured that they probably used a syrup or processed sugar to achieve the flavor. So of course I wondered if I could create a healthy version with ingredients similar to my superfood vanilla latte.
I enlisted the help of my professional taste testers (aka- my kids) and after a little experimentation, we settled on a recipe that has hints of the gingerbread cookies my family used to make as a kid with added nutrients, protein, and healthy fats for a satisfying and delicious drink.
What Makes This Gingerbread Latte Better?
Instead of just coffee, milk, and a gingerbread flavored syrup, this version packs a lot of nutrition with the addition of these beneficial ingredients:
- Collagen: Contains beneficial long-chain amino acids that are great for skin and hair and a good source of protein. The addition of collagen adds protein and creaminess to this recipe without changing the flavor.
- Grass-fed butter: High in CLA, vitamin K2, butyrate and other beneficial substances, grass-fed butter is a nutrient powerhouse that also adds the familiar creaminess to this recipe. This and the collagen add protein and beneficial fats that make this latte satisfying and filling.
- Coconut oil: A superfood with many benefits, coconut oil adds lauric acid and medium-chain triglycerides to this recipe as well as a slight sweetness and depth of flavor. Not a fan of coconut or allergic to it? Use extra butter instead or omit the coconut completely.
- Molasses: One of the healthiest sweeteners available that is relatively low in sugar and high in b-vitamins, magnesium, calcium, copper, and one of the few non-animal sources of iron. Molasses may have benefits for blood health, digestion, menstrual health, and nutrient absorption.
- Coffee or Dandy Blend: Coffee can have benefits on its own, but for those who prefer to avoid the caffeine or just don’t love coffee, Dandy Blend is an excellent substitute in this recipe. It is a gluten-free and sugar-free alternative that is naturally sweet and a great base for the gingerbread taste.
- Raw honey: Another powerhouse natural sweeter with antibacterial and antiviral properties. It is even used as a burn salve by top hospitals for its healing abilities.
- Cinnamon: A delicious spice with a long history of use for immune boosting, infection fighting, and soothing digestive troubles. Cinnamon completes the gingerbread flavor in this recipe and adds an immune boosting punch.
Superfood Gingerbread Latte Recipe
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed coffee or Dandy Blend (warm)
- 1 tsp collagen powder (optional)
- 1 TBSP butter
- 1 tsp coconut oil (or extra butter)
- 1 tsp blackstrap molasses
- ½ tsp honey
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ inch fresh ginger (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until frothy, about 15 seconds. Do not use a Magic Bullet or closed in blender as the heat can cause it to crack.
Nutrition
Notes
Ever created your own healthy version of a favorite coffee shop drink?
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