Why You’ll Love this Toasted Marshmallow Latte
There are three reasons why this toasted marshmallow latte will become your new coffee shop replacement.
First, that perfectly toasted marshmallow top creates a campfire experience right in your mug—smoky, sweet, and utterly indulgent.
Second, it’s customizable to your taste; want it less sweet or dairy-free? I’ve got you covered with simple swaps.
Finally, the dramatic presentation (hello, kitchen torch moment) makes an ordinary coffee break feel special.
Trust me, the aroma alone—caramel notes mingling with that distinctive toasted sugar smell—will transport you to a cozy cabin, regardless of your actual surroundings.
What Ingredients are in Toasted Marshmallow Latte?
Making this toasted marshmallow latte at home requires just a handful of ingredients you might already have in your pantry.
The beauty of this cozy drink is how these simple components transform into something that feels so much more special than your everyday coffee.
And while the ingredient list is short, each element plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of rich coffee, creamy sweetness, and that irresistible toasted marshmallow top.
- 1 cup hot strong coffee (or 1-2 shots espresso plus hot water to make 1 cup)
- ½ cup steamed milk (can be dairy or plant-based like oat or almond)
- 1 tablespoon caramel syrup (or 2-3 teaspoons to taste)
- 3 large marshmallows (or a handful of mini marshmallows)
The quality of your ingredients will definitely impact the final result.
For the coffee, use your favorite beans freshly ground if possible—the stronger the better to stand up to the sweetness.
When it comes to milk, whole milk creates the richest texture, but oat milk works wonderfully for a dairy-free version (it actually froths beautifully).
Don’t have caramel syrup? You can substitute with maple syrup for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
And for the marshmallows, while standard grocery store varieties work perfectly, gourmet or homemade marshmallows can take this drink to an entirely new level of decadence.
How to Make this Toasted Marshmallow Latte
Making this decadent coffee treat is surprisingly simple, and the process itself becomes part of the enjoyment. Start by preparing 1 cup of hot strong coffee (or 1-2 shots of espresso topped with hot water to reach 1 cup). While your coffee is brewing, steam ½ cup of milk—dairy or plant-based—until it’s warm and slightly frothy. If you don’t have a steamer, you can heat the milk in a small saucepan and whisk vigorously, or use a handheld frother for that perfect café-style texture. For an extra touch of barista-level presentation, set aside a spoonful of foamed milk to top your drink later.
Pour your freshly brewed coffee into a large heatproof mug, then add the steamed milk and 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup (or adjust to 2-3 teaspoons if you prefer it less sweet). Give everything a good stir to blend the flavors completely.
Now comes the fun part—place 3 large marshmallows (or a handful of mini ones) on top of your coffee mixture. To achieve that signature toasted finish, you have two options: use a kitchen torch to carefully brown the marshmallows until they’re golden and slightly charred, or place the mug under a hot broiler for 20-30 seconds. If choosing the broiler method, remember to set your mug on a baking sheet first and watch it constantly—those marshmallows can go from perfectly toasted to completely burnt in seconds!
Safety is paramount when toasting your marshmallows, especially if you’re using the broiler method. The marshmallows should develop a beautiful golden crust while remaining gooey on the inside—that’s where the magic happens as they slowly melt into your latte.
Once toasted, serve immediately while the contrast between the hot coffee and the warm, gooey marshmallow is at its peak. With each sip, you’ll get a perfect balance of rich coffee, sweet caramel, creamy milk, and that unmistakable toasted marshmallow flavor that makes this drink so special.
Toasted Marshmallow Latte Substitutions and Variations
While you can enjoy the classic toasted marshmallow latte recipe as written, I’ve discovered several delicious variations that might better suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
For those hot summer days, try the iced version with chilled coffee over ice, toasting the marshmallows separately before floating them on top. My dairy-free friends, oat milk works wonders here—it froths beautifully—and pairs perfectly with vegan marshmallows.
If you find the original too sweet, simply reduce the caramel to 2 teaspoons or swap in maple syrup.
And for a campfire twist that makes me nostalgic every time? Sprinkle crushed graham crackers over those golden toasted marshmallows. S’mores in a mug, anyone?
What to Serve with Toasted Marshmallow Latte
What pairs perfectly with that indulgent toasted marshmallow latte you’ve just crafted? I’m a firm believer that this sweet treat deserves equally delightful companions.
Try it with a buttery shortbread cookie—the simple, crisp texture creates magic against those toasty flavors.
For breakfast, pair with a slice of cinnamon toast or a warm croissant. The contrast of the caramel notes with something slightly salty? Divine.
A small square of dark chocolate on the side slowly melts as you sip, creating a mocha-adjacent experience without overpowering the marshmallow star of the show.
Final Thoughts
As you craft this toasted marshmallow latte in your kitchen, you’re not just making a beverage—you’re creating a moment of pure comfort.
I find myself returning to this recipe whenever I need a little escape from the everyday.
There’s something magical about watching those marshmallows transform under heat, their golden exterior giving way to gooey sweetness that mingles with the caramel and coffee.
Worth every minute.
