DIRTEA Caramel Latte Recipe: Focus, Balance, and a Hint of Sweetness

Elevate Your Morning with Functional Mushrooms

 

There's something undeniably comforting about a caramel latte—the rich sweetness, the velvety texture, and that gentle caffeine lift. But what if your morning brew could do more? This DIRTEA Caramel Latte takes everything you love about a traditional caramel latte and enhances it with functional mushrooms and adaptogens that support your brain, balance your energy, and help you stay focused throughout the day.

The star of this recipe is the DIRTEA Mushroom Coffee Super Blend, which combines premium Arabica coffee with 1,000mg of Lion's Mane mushroom extract, Maca, Ashwagandha, and an organic B vitamin complex. Unlike regular coffee that can leave you jittery, this mushroom-infused coffee blend provides sustained energy without the typical caffeine rollercoaster.

With 80% less caffeine than your average cup of coffee but all the rich, nutty flavour you crave, this caramel latte recipe delivers a smooth, indulgent experience that supports cognitive function and mental clarity. 

 

Ingredients

 

• 1 scoop (2.5g) DIRTEA Coffee Super Blend
• 35ml hot water
• 200ml milk of choice (oat milk works particularly well)
• 1-2 tbsp caramel sauce
• Optional: ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: small pinch of sea salt
• Optional: sprinkle of cinnamon or cacao powder for garnish

Method

 

1. Prepare the mushroom coffee base. Add the DIRTEA Coffee Super Blend to your mug and pour in 35ml of hot water (around 90°C). Stir thoroughly until completely dissolved.
2. Heat and froth your milk. Warm your chosen milk in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling. If available, use a milk frother to create a silky foam.
3. Add caramel flavouring. Stir the caramel sauce into your coffee base. If using, add the vanilla extract and pinch of salt to enhance the caramel notes.
4. Combine. Pour the warmed milk into your mug, holding back the foam with a spoon. Spoon the foam on top once the milk is added.
5. Finish. Dust with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or cacao powder and add a final drizzle of caramel if desired.

Functional Benefits in Every Cup

 

The DIRTEA Caramel Latte combines indulgence with functionality, delivering a range of benefits through its carefully selected ingredients:

 

Lion's Mane Mushroom Extract (1,000mg per serving) 

Known as the "brain mushroom," Lion's Mane extract contains compounds that support cognitive function. DIRTEA's dual-extracted Lion's Mane is particularly rich in beta-glucans (>40%), the active compounds responsible for many of the mushroom's benefits. The combination of Lion's Mane with a small amount of caffeine creates a powerful synergy for focus and mental clarity.

Learn more →

 

Reduced Caffeine Coffee 

With just 50mg of caffeine compared to 250-300mg in a standard latte, this mushroom coffee alternative provides gentle alertness without the overwhelming stimulation that can lead to afternoon crashes.

 

Ashwagandha Root 

This adaptogenic herb has been used for centuries to help the body respond more effectively to stress. In this recipe, Ashwagandha helps balance the effects of caffeine, contributing to a smoother overall energy experience.

Explore Ashwagandha benefits →

 

Maca Root 

Originally from Peru, Maca root adds subtle natural sweetness while supporting sustained energy levels. Unlike the sharp spike from sugar or high caffeine, Maca provides gentler, more balanced vitality.

Explore the benefits of Maca Root →

 

B Vitamin Complex 

The blend contains essential B vitamins (B5, B6, Folate, and B12) that support energy metabolism and nervous system function while helping reduce fatigue—complementing the mushroom extracts perfectly.

 

Tips for the Perfect Mushroom Caramel Latte

 

• Water temperature is key. Using water at approximately 90°C preserves the beneficial compounds in the mushroom extract while ensuring optimal flavour extraction without bitterness.
• Explore different milk options. This recipe works well with various milk alternatives. Oat milk provides natural creaminess and sweetness, while almond milk offers a lighter option, and coconut milk adds unique complementary notes.
• Quality caramel makes a difference. For the best flavour profile, use a high-quality caramel sauce without artificial ingredients. A homemade version using coconut sugar and cream creates a rich depth of flavour.
• Consider an iced version. For warmer days, cool the mushroom coffee base completely, pour over ice, add cold frothed milk and caramel for a refreshing alternative that maintains all the functional benefits.
• Consistency yields results. The cognitive and energy benefits of Lion's Mane and adaptogens tend to build with regular consumption, making this latte an excellent addition to a daily wellness routine.

Curious About Functional Coffee?

 

If you’ve been meaning to try functional mushrooms but aren’t sure where to begin, this caramel latte recipe is a helpful place to start. It delivers the comfort and familiarity of your usual coffee moment—just with a little extra purpose.

There’s no need to overhaul your morning. Just stir, sip, and see how a simple swap can support how you feel.

Try the DIRTEA Coffee Super Blend →

FAQs

 

Does this mushroom caramel latte taste like mushrooms? 

No, the flavour profile is very similar to a traditional caramel latte. The Lion's Mane extract in DIRTEA's Coffee Super Blend is completely neutral-tasting and is masked by the coffee and caramel flavours.

 

How does this compare to a standard café caramel latte? 

This adaptogenic version contains 80% less caffeine than a typical café latte while adding functional mushrooms and adaptogens. The result is a smoother energy experience without the peaks and crashes often associated with high-caffeine drinks.

 

Can I prepare components of this latte in advance? 

Yes, the DIRTEA coffee base can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours, making it convenient for busy mornings. Simply rewarm the base, add fresh caramel and milk when ready to serve.

 

Will this help with concentration and productivity? 

Many people find that the combination of Lion's Mane extract and balanced caffeine levels provides clearer, more sustained focus compared to high-caffeine alternatives. The B vitamins also support energy metabolism and help reduce fatigue during mentally demanding tasks.

 

Is this suitable for afternoon consumption? 

With its significantly lower caffeine content (50mg vs 250-300mg in regular coffee), many people can enjoy this mushroom coffee alternative later in the day without disrupting sleep patterns. Individual caffeine sensitivity varies, so personal experimentation is recommended.