To make cold foam at home, you generally need milk (often skim or 2% milk) and a flavored syrup like vanilla syrup. Here are common methods and a basic recipe:
Basic Ingredients
- Milk (skim or 2% preferred for good foaming)
- Vanilla syrup (or any flavored syrup you like)
Simple Recipe
- Combine about 2-3 tablespoons of cold milk with 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup in a jar or glass.
- Froth the mixture until thick and foamy. This can be done by:
- Shaking vigorously in a sealed jar for 1-2 minutes.
- Using a handheld milk frother for about 20 seconds.
- Pumping with a French press plunger.
- Using an immersion blender or regular blender until foamy.
- Pour the cold foam over your iced coffee or cold brew and serve immediately
Tips
- Heavy cream can be added for a richer, creamier foam (e.g., 3 tbsp heavy cream + 2 tbsp milk + syrup).
- For dairy-free options, oat milk or other plant milks can be used but may not foam as well
- Adjust syrup amount to taste for sweetness and flavor.
- The foam should be thick but still pourable, not stiff like whipped cream
This method replicates the popular Starbucks-style cold foam and can be customized easily at home.