Today, I made a latte that smells like fresh strawberries but with a surprising twist—I snuck in a pinch of black pepper. Yeah, black pepper. It’s weird, but it enhances the sweetness in a way I didn’t see coming. I used to think lattes had to be all creamy vanilla or chai spice, but this one whispers summer mornings and city bus rides, all at once. The aroma hits just right—bright, fruity, with a little zing of pepper that makes you sit up. It feels rebellious, honest even, like picking strawberries at dawn and spilling a little on your shirt. No fancy syrups, no foam art—just this odd combo that’s all about pushing the usual aside. It’s probably not what you’d expect, but right now? It’s exactly what I need to shake off that sluggish feeling, like a little surprise in a cup.

Strawberry Black Pepper Latte

This latte is prepared by brewing strong coffee or espresso before combining it with infused strawberry syrup and milk. A pinch of black pepper is added to elevate the sweetness, resulting in a frothy beverage with a fragrant, bright appearance and a subtle spicy zing on the palate.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Contemporary

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso hot and freshly prepared
• 1/4 cup strawberry syrup homemade or store-bought, heated slightly
• 1/2 cup milk frothed
• pinch black pepper freshly ground, about 1/16 teaspoon

Equipment

• Coffee maker or espresso machine
• Small saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Strainer or fine mesh sieve
• Milk frother or whisk
• Measuring spoons

Method

 

1. Measure and brew a shot of strong coffee or espresso using your preferred method. Keep it hot and ready for mixing.
2. Combine the strawberry syrup with the hot coffee in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat until the syrup blends thoroughly, about 2 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon.
3. Using a milk frother or whisk, froth the milk until it develops a smooth, velvety foam and increases in volume, about 1 to 2 minutes. Set aside.
4. Pour the heated strawberry coffee mixture into a latte glass or mug, then gently add the frothed milk on top, holding back the foam with a spoon and then spooning it over the drink.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of freshly ground black pepper onto the foam, watching as it rests lightly on the surface, adding a subtle, speckled appearance.
6. Serve immediately, allowing the aroma of strawberries and pepper to escape, creating an inviting visual and aromatic experience.

Notes

Adjust the amount of black pepper to taste for a milder or stronger zing. For a sweeter drink, add more strawberry syrup as desired.

Maybe it’s the combination of familiar sweetness and that unexpected kick that keeps me coming back. Or how it makes me think about spring mornings I never take for granted anymore. Whatever it is—this weird little latte might just find a spot in your morning routine, too. Or remind you that sometimes, the best ideas are those that seem a little ridiculous at first glance.