Milo Iced Latte Hack

My flatmate came home one afternoon last summer with a jar of Milo tucked under her arm, grinning like she'd smuggled treasure across borders. She mixed it with hot water first, then poured it over ice and milk without measuring a thing. I watched her take that first sip and close her eyes, and I knew I had to try it. It tasted like childhood and comfort rolled into one frosty glass, even though I'd never grown up drinking it.

I started making this during long work-from-home stretches when my brain needed a reset but I didn't want another coffee. The ritual of whisking the Milo into a glossy paste, hearing the ice crack as the liquid hit it, became a tiny act of care I looked forward to. My neighbor once smelled it through the window and asked if I was making hot chocolate, and I had to explain it was actually the cold version. She tried it the next day and texted me a photo of her own glass with three exclamation marks.

Ingredients

• Milo powder: This is the heart of the drink, bringing that distinct malty chocolate flavor that's hard to replicate with cocoa alone, so don't skip dissolving it in hot water first or it clumps.
• Hot water: Just enough to melt the powder into a smooth, syrupy base that blends seamlessly with the cold milk later.
• Cold milk: Whole milk makes it rich and creamy, but oat milk works beautifully if you want a nuttier, plant-based version.
• Ice cubes: The more the better, because they keep everything frosty and dilute the drink just enough as they melt.
• Sugar or sweetener: Totally optional, depending on how sweet your Milo is and your mood that day.

Instructions

Dissolve the Milo:

Whisk the Milo powder with hot water in a small bowl until it turns smooth and glossy, with no dry specks clinging to the sides. This step is what keeps your latte from being grainy.

Sweeten if needed:

Taste the mixture and add sugar or sweetener if you like, whisking again to blend it in completely. I usually skip this, but some Milo tins are less sweet than others.

Prep your glass:

Fill a tall glass to the brim with ice cubes so every sip stays cold. Don't be shy with the ice.

Layer the Milo:

Pour the dissolved Milo mixture slowly over the ice, watching it settle at the bottom. It looks like a little chocolate pool before you stir.

Add the milk:

Pour in the cold milk and give it a gentle stir with a spoon or straw to swirl the colors together. Serve it right away while it's still frosty.

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One weekend I made a batch of these for a small gathering, doubling the recipe in a pitcher and letting people pour their own over ice. Someone added a shot of espresso to theirs and declared it genius, and another person stirred in condensed milk until it was almost dessert. Watching everyone customize it reminded me that the best recipes are the ones that bend without breaking.

How to Make It Extra Creamy

If you want your latte to feel more indulgent, swap in whole milk or add a tablespoon of condensed milk to the Milo mixture before you pour it over ice. The condensed milk melts into the drink and adds a silky sweetness that makes it taste like a treat from a fancy cafe. I've also tried stirring in a spoonful of cream once, and it turned the whole thing into something dangerously drinkable.

Choosing the Right Milk

Dairy milk gives you the creamiest result, but oat milk froths up nicely and has a subtle sweetness that complements the malt. Almond milk works if you like a lighter drink, though it can taste a bit thin compared to the others. Soy milk is smooth and protein-rich, but make sure it's a barista blend or it might separate slightly when it hits the cold Milo mixture.

Serving and Storing Tips

This drink is best enjoyed immediately, while the ice is still solid and the layers haven't fully blended. If you need to prep ahead, dissolve the Milo and store it in the fridge for up to a day, then just pour it over fresh ice and milk when you're ready. Leftover Milo mixture can also be stirred into hot milk for a quick nighttime drink.

• Use a clear glass so you can see the beautiful gradient before stirring.
• Add a straw or long spoon to make sipping and stirring easier.
• Top with whipped cream and a dusting of Milo powder if you're feeling fancy.

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Now every time I make this, I think of that first glass my flatmate handed me and how something so simple can feel like a small adventure. It's become my go-to reset button, and I hope it does the same for you.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk?

Yes, plant-based milks work wonderfully in this drink. Oat, almond, and soy milk are excellent choices that blend well with the Milo flavor and create a creamy texture.

→ How do I make the Milo mixture smooth without lumps?

Whisk the Milo powder thoroughly with hot water for about 1-2 minutes until completely dissolved and smooth. This ensures no lumps remain before combining with the cold milk and ice.

→ Can I prepare this drink ahead of time?

It's best served immediately after assembly, but you can prepare the Milo mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Combine with ice and cold milk just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.

→ What are good ways to customize this drink?

Enhance it with whole milk for extra creaminess, add condensed milk for richness, top with whipped cream, or sprinkle additional Milo powder on top. Adjust sweetness by adding sugar or your preferred sweetener to taste.

→ Are there any allergen concerns I should know about?

Milo contains milk and may include gluten and soy depending on the brand. Always check the product label for specific allergen information. Use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version if needed.