
Masala-Spiced Espresso with Saffron Milk
A cozy espresso drink with warming Indian spices and luxurious saffron-infused milk
July 16, 2025
Love classic espresso but craving something special? This Masala-Spiced Espresso combines rich coffee with traditional Indian spices and gorgeous saffron-infused milk for a drink that's both comforting and exotic.
This coffee shop favorite is surprisingly simple to make at home. Using freshly ground dark roast espresso beans and a signature blend of cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger creates a perfectly balanced drink. The saffron milk adds a beautiful golden color and subtle floral notes that make this perfect for slow weekend mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn't your ordinary coffee drink! Here's why you'll fall in love with it:
- Rich and complex flavors from traditional Indian spices
- Instagram-worthy golden color from real saffron
- Customizable spice levels to suit your taste
- Perfect alternative to regular lattes

Masala-Spiced Espresso with Saffron Milk
A cozy espresso drink with warming Indian spices and luxurious saffron-infused milk
Masala Coffee, Spiced Espresso, Saffron Milk, Indian Coffee, Specialty Coffee, Homemade Coffee
Equipment
- Espresso machine
- Milk frother or steamer
- Small saucepan
- Measuring spoons
- Coffee grinder
- Fine-mesh strainer
Ingredients
- 2 shots espresso (2 oz)
- 8 oz whole milk
- 3-4 saffron threads
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp honey
- Pinch of ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Warm milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming (not boiling)
- Add saffron threads to the warm milk and let steep for 10 minutes
- Mix cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger in a small bowl
- Pull two shots of espresso into your serving cup
- Add honey to the espresso and stir to dissolve
- Add the spice mixture to the espresso and stir well
- Steam or froth the saffron-infused milk
- Pour the golden milk over the spiced espresso
- Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg
Pro Tips
- **Bloom your saffron** in warm milk for 10-15 minutes to release maximum color and flavor
- **Freshly grind** your spices just before use for the best flavor
- **Use dark roast** espresso beans to stand up to the strong spices
- **Strain the milk** before using to remove any spice particles
Calories: 180kcal, Carbohydrates: 24g, Protein: 8g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 24mg, Sodium: 95mg, Potassium: 367mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 23g, Calcium: 275mg, Iron: 1mg