A Spanish latte, also called a Café con Leche is typically enjoyed with breakfast in Spain. Unlike a traditional latte consisting of one part espresso and two parts steamed milk, a Spanish latte is made with one part espresso, one part milk, and one part condensed milk.

While both drinks consist of espresso and steamed milk, the difference lies in the texture and the sweetener. A traditional Café con Leche is the staple of Spain and Latin America, consisting of a 1:1 ratio of strong espresso and "scalded" (very hot) steamed milk, usually served without foam and without added sugar (you add your own). A Spanish Latte, however, is a modern variation popularized in boutique cafes and the Middle East; it adds condensed milk to the bottom of the cup before the espresso and steamed milk are poured in. This creates a much creamier, sweeter, and heavier drink compared to the balanced, bitter-forward Café con Leche. Think of the Café con Leche as a daily morning fuel, whereas the Spanish Latte is a dessert-like treat. In 2026, many coffee shops use the terms loosely, so if you want the sweet version, it is always best to ask if it contains condensed milk.