How to Make Zus Buttercreme Latte (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Zus Buttercreme Latte is a beloved beverage in Malaysia, drawing inspiration from the country’s vibrant multicultural café scene. This latte combines rich local coffee with smooth buttercream, evoking the comforting flavors found in many Malaysian kopitiams and modern cafés. The fusion of coffee and buttercream is deeply satisfying, offering both energy and a creamy mouthfeel. In Malaysia, buttercream is often made using locally sourced ingredients like santan (coconut milk) or pandan, which lend unique aromas and subtle sweetness to the drink. The Zus Buttercreme Latte is ideal for those who appreciate the balance of rich flavors and gentle sweetness. The recipe presented here is tailored for health-conscious Malaysians, using alternative sweeteners and lighter dairy options, ensuring you can enjoy the beverage without excess calories. This drink is perfect for breakfast or brunch, where Malaysians traditionally gather to enjoy kopi, teh, and roti. With its roots in the café culture of urban Malaysia, it’s a modern classic that pays homage to the diverse culinary heritage found in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, making it a must-try for any coffee enthusiast seeking authentic Malaysian flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 shots Kopi (Malaysian coffee) (Freshly brewed local coffee)
- 1 cup Low-fat milk (Susu rendah lemak)
- 1 tablespoon Unsalted butter (Mentega tanpa garam)
- 2 tablespoons Santan (coconut milk) (Adds Malay flavor)
- 1 piece Pandan leaf (Daun pandan, tied into a knot)
- 1 tablespoon Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (Healthy sugar alternative)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Optional for aroma)
- 1 cup Ice cubes (For iced version)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon powder (Optional garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Brew strong Malaysian coffee (kopi) using your preferred method
Brew strong Malaysian coffee (kopi) using your preferred method. Set aside.
Step 2 · In a small saucepan
In a small saucepan, heat low-fat milk and santan with the pandan leaf. Let the mixture simmer gently to infuse the flavors.
Step 3 · Remove the pandan leaf and add unsalted butter to the milk mixture
Remove the pandan leaf and add unsalted butter to the milk mixture. Stir until butter is fully melted and incorporated.
Step 4 · Add stevia or monk fruit sweetener and vanilla extract (if using)
Add stevia or monk fruit sweetener and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until fully dissolved.
Step 5 · Pour the hot coffee into two glasses
Pour the hot coffee into two glasses. Slowly add the buttercream milk blend, stirring gently.
Step 6 · For an iced version
For an iced version, add ice cubes to the glasses before pouring in the coffee and milk blend.
Step 7 · Sprinkle cinnamon powder on top as a garnish (optional)
Sprinkle cinnamon powder on top as a garnish (optional). Serve immediately.
Why this recipe is healthy
By using low-fat milk and coconut milk, this recipe reduces saturated fats while retaining creaminess. Natural sweeteners help keep calories low and support blood sugar control. The addition of pandan and cinnamon offers extra antioxidants, making the Zus Buttercreme Latte a guilt-free treat. It’s suitable for vegetarian diets and can easily be adapted to vegan preferences.
A note on tradition
In Malaysia, café culture is thriving, and beverages like Zus Buttercreme Latte reflect the fusion of traditional and modern tastes. The use of santan and pandan is rooted in Malay culinary heritage, while the buttercream element is inspired by local bakery and dessert flavors. This latte is popular among urban Malaysians and is often enjoyed during breakfast gatherings or weekend brunches in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. It’s a celebration of Malaysia’s multicultural palate, blending Malay, Indian, and Chinese influences.