From building houses to baking cookies, gingerbread is a popular sweet treat that we love to indulge in over the holidays. A combination of ginger, honey, and treacle or molasses, gingerbreads’ distinct flavour has been delighting cultures around the world for ages. The first known recipe dates back to Greece in 2400BC, with recipes emerging from China during the 10th century, followed by European interpretations in the later Middle Ages.
Sweet and spicy gingerbread takes on many enticing forms during the holidays. One of the most classic festive shapes is the gingerbread house. Originating in Germany during the 16th century, gingerbread houses are said to have gained popularity thanks to the story of Hansel and Gretel. In the folk tale, written by the Brothers Grimm, the main characters stumbled upon a house made entirely of candy. While it’s unclear if gingerbread houses resulted from the story or vice versa, their popularity surged and today, making a gingerbread house remains a fun activity for the winter holidays.
Another fun gingerbread fact dates back to Elizabeth I of England, who is credited with the invention of the gingerbread man. It’s said that she would bake gingerbread cookies to resemble guests who would visit her court. Beyond the royal court, gingerbread was a favorite treat at festivals and fairs in medieval Europe — often shaped and decorated to look like flowers, birds, animals, or even armor.
Inspired by this long and delicious history, we created an Earth-first recipe that will infuse your morning cup of coffee with this distinct holiday flavour. We encourage you to skip the coffee shop lines and get cozy at home with a comfy sweater, warm blankets, and our Festive Vegan Gingerbread Latte.
Festive Vegan Gingerbread Latte Recipe
- 2 shots of espresso or 4 Tbsp of strong pour-over coffee
- 1 ½ cups barista oat milk
- (You can swap this for any dairy-free milk. We suggest barista oat milk because it steams easier and gives you that signature latte foam.)
- ½ – 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- Adjust based on your desired level of sweetness.
- 1 tsp blackstrap molasses
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground ginger
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
- Small punch of ground cloves
Add brewed espresso or strong coffee, maple syrup, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir to combine and heat through. Once heated, add spice espresso to your favorite mug.
Return the saucepan to the stove over high heat and add the barista milk. As the milk warms, whisk consistently to create a foam. Remove from the heat once the milk starts to simmer.
Add to your mug and enjoy. We suggest topping with a little pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. Add coconut whipped cream for an extra decadent treat.
If you enjoy this warming drink, be sure to try our Everyday Turmeric Latte and Vegan Mushroom Hot Chocolate.
