Are you looking for a new drink? Look no further than the dragon fruit latte! This colorful beverage is a must-try for anyone looking to add variety to their morning or afternoon routine.
The dragon fruit latte has an espresso base, dragon fruit powder, and steamed milk. The espresso can be omitted if you are looking for a zero-caffeine drink. It is a tasty treat, and the dragon fruit also provides various health benefits, including high levels of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Keep reading to find out more about this colorful drink!
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Dragon Fruit Latte Overview
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit native to Central America but is now cultivated and enjoyed in various parts of the world. It belongs to the cactus family and has a distinct appearance and vibrant and colorful exterior. The fruit is usually oval or pear-shaped, and its outer skin can be bright pink or yellow, depending on the variety.
The flesh of dragon fruit is typically white or pinkish, speckled with tiny black seeds. The texture is often compared to a kiwi, as it is juicy and contains numerous small edible seeds. The taste of dragon fruit is mildly sweet, similar to a melon, with subtle hints of pear or kiwi.
A dragon fruit latte contains dragon fruit, steamed milk, and a sweetener. Some recipes include espresso, strong coffee, or tea.
In our recipe, we use dragon fruit powder. This powder is made by dehydrating and grinding the fruit’s flesh. By removing the moisture from the fruit, a concentrated product is obtained. The powder retains the fruit’s vibrant color, flavor, and nutrients. Plus, it is convenient and easy to find.
The dragon fruit latte (and its variations) has gained popularity since it was introduced to the menus of popular chain coffee shops.
Ingredients Needed
You will need simple ingredients to make a delicious dragon fruit latte. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Dragon Fruit Powder: This main ingredient gives the latte its beautiful pink color and fruity flavor.
- Milk: You can use any milk you like, such as dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Sweetener: You can use any sweetener, such as maple syrup, honey, or sugar. If you’re watching your sugar intake, use a sugar-free sweetener instead.
Here are some additional ingredients you can add:
- Coffee or Espresso: If you want a stronger flavor, add a shot of coffee or espresso to your latte.
- Green Tea: Dragon fruit’s mild sweetness and refreshing flavor harmonize well with green tea’s delicate and grassy notes.
- White Tea: The gentle and floral characteristics of white tea complement the subtle taste of dragon fruit.
- Herbal Tea Blends: Dragon fruit can be enjoyed with herbal tea blends with fruity or floral flavors. Chamomile, hibiscus, or rosehip teas provide a lovely contrast to the dragon fruit’s mild taste.
Dragon Fruit Latte Recipe (Caffeine Free)
Ingredients
- 1-2 tablespoons of dragon fruit powder
- 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon of honey or sweetener of your choice
Instructions
- Heat the Milk:
- Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Be careful not to bring it to a boil; you want it to be hot but not scalding.
- Mix in the Dragon Fruit Powder:
- While the milk is heating, add the dragon fruit powder to a separate cup or mug.
- Sweeten and Flavor:
- Add the sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup) to the cup with the dragon fruit powder.
- If you’re using optional flavorings, add them to the cup as well.
- Froth the Milk:
- If you have a milk frother, you can froth the heated milk until it’s creamy and has a nice foam on top. If you don’t have a frother, you can whisk the milk vigorously with a regular whisk. You can skip this step, but frothing the milk adds a wonderful texture to the latte.
- Create the Dragon Fruit Paste:
- Mix a small amount of the heated milk into the cup with the dragon fruit powder, sweetener, and flavorings. Stir well to create a smooth paste, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Slowly pour the heated milk into the cup, holding back the foam with a spoon to allow the liquid to pour first.
- Gently stir until well combined. Spoon the foam on top of the latte if you frothed the milk.
- Serve:
- Your latte is ready to be enjoyed!
Dragon Fruit Latte Variations
Here are a few variations of dragon fruit lattes that you can try:
Fresh Dragon Fruit Latte
Cut a dragon fruit in half and scoop out the flesh. Add the dragon fruit flesh to a blender with milk (dairy or plant-based) and a touch of sweetener, such as honey or agave syrup. Blend until smooth. Heat and froth the dragon fruit milk mixture. Pour into a cup or tall glass. You can add espresso if you want to give it a boost.
Iced Dragon Fruit Matcha Latte
Prepare a matcha latte by whisking matcha powder with hot water and a sweetener. Let it cool, then blend it with dragon fruit powder and milk. Pour the mixture over ice for a refreshing iced latte with an added twist.
Dragon Fruit Espresso Latte
Add a shot of espresso (or strong coffee) to the cup before pouring the beet powder, milk, and sweetener mix for a stronger, caffeinated version of this latte.
Dragon Fruit Coconut Latte
Infuse your latte with a tropical flavor by combining dragon fruit with coconut milk. Brew your preferred coffee or espresso, and then blend the dragon fruit powder with coconut milk and a sweetener. Froth the mixture and pour it over the coffee for a creamy latte.
Spiced Dragon Fruit Turmeric Latte
For an aromatic option, create a spiced latte. Combine dragon fruit powder, milk (dairy or plant-based), turmeric powder, cinnamon, ginger, and a sweetener in a saucepan. Heat the mixture until warm and well-infused. Strain it, and pour it over brewed coffee or espresso for a comforting spiced latte.
Dragon Fruit Vanilla Chai Latte
Incorporate the fragrant flavors of vanilla and chai into your dragon fruit latte. Brew a chai tea concentrate by simmering black tea, spices (such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves), and vanilla extract in water. Blend the dragon fruit powder with milk and a sweetener, and froth the mixture. Combine the dragon fruit milk with the chai concentrate, and pour it over espresso for a delightful dragon fruit vanilla chai latte.
Dragon Fruit Health Benefits
As mentioned, dragon fruit has several health benefits. We discuss them below.
Antioxidants
Dragon fruit is rich in antioxidants, which help to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, leading to various health problems.
Nutrition
Dragon fruit contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, B6, iron, and magnesium.
Collagen
Dragon fruit contains collagen essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Collagen helps keep your skin youthful and vibrant and improves the strength and elasticity of your hair and nails.
Skin
Dragon fruit is also rich in vitamin E, essential for healthy skin. Vitamin E helps to moisturize your skin and protect it from damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors.
Where to Buy Dragon Fruit Powder
You’ll need some high-quality dragon fruit powder to prepare your latte. Luckily, there are a few places where you can find it.
Grocery Stores
Your local grocery store is a great place to start your search. Check the health food section or the spice aisle to see if they carry it. Some popular grocery stores that may carry dragon fruit powder include:
- Whole Foods
- Trader Joe’s
- Sprouts
- Safeway
- Kroger
If you can’t find it in-store, you can always check the store’s website to see if they offer online ordering and delivery.
Amazon
If you prefer to shop online, Amazon is a great option. They have a wide variety of brands and types of dragon fruit powder available so that you can find the perfect one for your needs. Plus, with Amazon Prime, you can get free two-day shipping on many products.
Organic Freeze-Dried Dragon Fruit Powder (Pink Pitaya/Pitahaya)
Dragon Fruit Powder for Baking & Drink
Organic Dragon Fruit Powder, Freeze-Dried Pink Pitaya
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some creative ways to use pink pitaya powder?
Pink pitaya powder can be used in various ways to add a pop of color and flavor to your dishes. You can sprinkle it on top of smoothie bowls, mix it into yogurt or oatmeal, or even use it as a natural food coloring for baked goods.
How do I make a dragon fruit smoothie?
To make a dragon fruit smoothie, blend frozen dragon fruit chunks or dragon fruit powder, your favorite milk or yogurt, and the sweetener of your choice. You can also add in other fruits or veggies to customize your smoothie to your liking.
What are the health benefits of dragon fruit?
Dragon fruit contains nutrients, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. It may also help improve digestion, boost immunity, and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Can you mix dragon fruit with coffee?
You can mix dragon fruit with coffee to create a flavorful drink. Blend dragon fruit puree, chunks, or powder with your favorite coffee, milk, or creamer.
What are some good recipes for dragon fruit dishes?
Some delicious dragon fruit recipes include dragon fruit salsa, dragon fruit sorbet, and dragon fruit smoothie bowls. You can also use dragon fruit in salads, cocktails, and even as a topping for pizza.
How do I choose a ripe dragon fruit?
To choose a ripe dragon fruit, look for one that is bright in color and has firm, evenly distributed skin. It should give slightly when pressed but not feel too soft or mushy.
This (yet) another of my favorite drinks. I hope you have enjoyed the article!
Have you tried or made a dragon fruit latte?
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