Pecan pie: people either love it or hate it. This typical holiday dessert is packed full of sweet, gooey syrup and buttery toasted pecans on a buttery, flaky crust. We personally question how anyone COULDN’T enjoy that, but for many it comes down to one thing- the texture!
If ooey-gooey and oversweet isn’t your thing but you still love the flavors of this Christmas standard, then this latte is for you. The coffee and milk tone down the sugar and allow the pecan flavor to really shine through. It’s warm, decadent and comforting for this lovely time of year without being syrupy like the pie. Plus, we take out many ingredients like corn syrup that a lot of people don’t like to use! Here’s our healthier version:
Ingredients
In a small saucepan, melt butter on medium-low heat. Add the pecans and toast them until they are barely browning. Then, add the 1/2 Cup brown sugar and salt before whisking to combine. Continue whisking until bubbles form around the edges, then slowly pour in the milk and bring to a simmer. Continue to whisk as more bubbles form around the edges for one minute, then remove from heat.
Grab your mug and fill about halfway with the sweetened pecan-milk mixture. Pull two shots of espresso and add to your mug, or add about ½ cup of strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine. You may add more milk if you like your latte with less coffee flavor. Optionally, top with whipped cream before sprinkling with chopped pecans and dusting lightly with brown sugar. Serve.