Chocolate Cracking Iced Latte (Print Version)

Indulgent iced latte with espresso, chilled milk, and a crackling chocolate topping for a refreshing treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Coffee

01 - 2 shots (2 fl oz) freshly brewed espresso

→ Dairy

02 - 1 cup (8 fl oz) whole milk or plant-based milk alternative

→ Chocolate Layer

03 - 2.8 oz dark or milk chocolate, chopped
04 - 1 tsp coconut oil (optional)

→ Sweetener

05 - 1–2 tsp simple syrup or sugar, to taste

→ Ice

06 - 2 cups ice cubes

# How-To Steps:

01 - Brew two shots of espresso and allow to cool slightly.
02 - Melt chocolate and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler until smooth and glossy.
03 - Fill two tall glasses with ice cubes.
04 - Pour ½ cup (4 fl oz) cold milk into each glass and stir in sweetener if desired.
05 - Slowly pour one shot of espresso over the milk and ice in each glass.
06 - Gently spoon or drizzle melted chocolate over each latte to form a thin, solid layer on top.
07 - Serve immediately. Crack the chocolate layer with a spoon or straw before stirring and drinking.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • That crispy chocolate layer gives you a moment of pure tactile joy when you crack it apart with your spoon.
  • It tastes fancy enough for a café but comes together in your own kitchen in less time than it takes to get dressed.
  • The contrast between cold, smooth milk and rich espresso with a chocolate surprise makes every sip feel intentional.
02 -
  • If your chocolate layer melts into the drink immediately, you poured the espresso too hot—let it cool another 30 seconds next time.
  • Don't skip the coconut oil if you want that dramatic snap; without it, the chocolate layer stays a bit rubbery and won't crack the way it should.
03 -
  • Make your chocolate layer just thick enough to crack but thin enough to melt into the drink in a few swirls—about the thickness of a coin is perfect.
  • If your espresso is cooling too slowly, set the cups in the fridge for a minute or two before adding the chocolate so you get better temperature contrast and a better set.
Go Back