Vanilla Latte Helps Heat Vamoose

In the Heat Wave of Summer 2011, who needs a hot drink?  Even if you don't start the day with an hour's worth of exercise in 90% humidity, as I do, there is something less appealing about a steaming drink when it's sizzling outdoors.  Since most of us rely on coffee to motivate our mornings, I began to dream of substituting something frosty and cooling.

vainilla café paleta

This frozen treat is the opposite of what is expected, mirroring this time in my life.  What should be searing is shivery.  What should be upright is inverted.  What is considered dessert breaks the fast.  But delights abound when one relaxes into the previously unimagined.  I think this vanilla latte is paleta perfection!

Vanilla Latte Recipe

3 cups (24 oz) brewed strong coffee

1/4 cup milk

1/8 cup cream

1/8 -1/4 cup vanilla syrup to taste (recipe below)

Stir all ingredients together, pour into molds, cool in refrigerator, transfer to freezer and freeze 4-6 hours.  

Vanilla syrup

1/2 cup water

1/4 cup white sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2-3 t vanilla extract or paste

Bring first three ingredients to a boil.  Reduce heat and simmer 3 minutes or until syrup thickens.  Remove from heat, add vanilla.