Pin it My niece showed me this on her phone one afternoon, scrolling through a video while I was making coffee. She insisted I try it right then, so I grabbed the Milo tin from the pantry and followed along. The whole thing took less time than brewing a pot, and when I tasted it, I understood why she'd been so insistent. It was cold, creamy, and had that nostalgic chocolate-malt flavor I hadn't thought about in years.
I started making this on weekends when my partner would sleep in and I'd want something cold and sweet without turning on the stove. It became our lazy Saturday ritual: one glass for me, one for him, and we'd sit on the back steps watching the dog chase shadows. Sometimes I'd add a little extra Milo on top just to make it look fancy, and he'd always notice.
Ingredients
- Milo powder: This is the heart of the drink, the chocolate-malt powder dissolves beautifully in hot water and gives the latte its signature flavor that plain cocoa cant replicate.
- Hot water: Just enough to dissolve the powder completely so you dont end up with gritty clumps at the bottom of your glass.
- Cold milk: Dairy or plant-based both work well, oat milk makes it extra creamy while almond keeps it lighter.
- Ice cubes: The more the better, they keep everything cold and create that layered cafe look when you pour.
- Sugar or sweetener: Optional, but I like a teaspoon stirred in if Im using unsweetened almond milk.
Instructions
- Dissolve the Milo:
- Whisk the Milo powder with hot water in a small bowl until its completely smooth and no lumps remain. This step is key, the hot water activates the malt and ensures everything blends seamlessly.
- Sweeten if desired:
- Taste the Milo mixture and add sugar or sweetener if you want it a bit sweeter, then whisk again. I usually skip this step, but it depends on your milk choice.
- Prep your glass:
- Fill a tall glass all the way up with ice cubes. Dont be shy, the ice dilutes slightly as it melts and keeps the drink perfectly chilled.
- Layer the Milo:
- Pour the dissolved Milo mixture slowly over the ice. Youll see it settle at the bottom, creating a beautiful gradient.
- Add the milk:
- Pour in the cold milk and give it a gentle stir with a spoon or straw to combine. Serve immediately while its icy cold.
Pin it One morning I made two of these for a friend who stopped by unexpectedly, and she asked if I'd opened a secret cafe in my kitchen. We sat at the table talking for an hour, and she kept sipping hers slowly, saying she didn't want it to end. That's when I realized this drink wasnt just quick, it was the kind of thing that made people pause and enjoy the moment.
Making It Extra Indulgent
If youre in the mood for something richer, swap half the milk for a splash of condensed milk or add a dollop of whipped cream on top. I did this once for a birthday breakfast and sprinkled extra Milo powder over the cream, and it looked like something youd pay too much for at a trendy spot. The condensed milk sinks and sweetens from the bottom up, so every sip tastes a little different.
Choosing Your Milk
Dairy milk gives you that classic creamy latte texture, but oat milk is my go-to when I want it to feel more substantial. Almond milk keeps it light and slightly nutty, and soy milk froths up nicely if you want to shake it in a jar first. Ive tried coconut milk too, but it competes with the malt flavor, so I save that for other drinks.
Serving and Storing Tips
This is one of those drinks you really should enjoy right away, the ice starts melting and the layers blend out if you wait too long. If you want to prep ahead, you can dissolve the Milo mixture in the morning and keep it in the fridge, then just pour it over ice and add milk when youre ready.
- Use a reusable metal straw, it stays colder longer and feels nicer to sip through.
- Double the recipe and keep extra Milo mixture in a jar for up to two days in the fridge.
- Top with a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of chocolate syrup if youre feeling fancy.
Pin it This little hack has saved me on so many warm afternoons when I needed something cold and comforting without any fuss. Its the kind of recipe you make once and then keep coming back to, because it just works.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk?
Yes, absolutely. Oat, almond, and soy milk work wonderfully as alternatives. They create a creamy texture while keeping the drink dairy-free.
- → How do I make the Milo mixture less grainy?
Whisk the Milo powder thoroughly with hot water until completely dissolved and smooth before pouring over ice. This ensures a silky consistency in your final drink.
- → What sweetener options work best?
White sugar, honey, agave, or any liquid sweetener dissolves well when added to the warm Milo mixture. Adjust to your taste preference before combining with milk.
- → How can I make this drink more indulgent?
Top with whipped cream, add a splash of condensed milk for extra creaminess, or sprinkle additional Milo powder on top for a richer chocolate flavor.
- → Is this suitable for those with allergies?
The drink contains milk and Milo may contain gluten and soy. Use plant-based milk for dairy-free versions and always check Milo label for specific allergen information.