Save My college roommate showed me this trick during exam week when we were both running on fumes and desperation. She'd come back from the kitchen with these tall, chocolatey glasses and I swear they were the only thing keeping us awake through 3 AM study sessions. Now whenever I make it, that sweet malty smell hits me and I'm right back in our tiny apartment, books spread everywhere, laughing about how we'd convinced ourselves this was basically a health drink because it had milk in it.
Last summer I started making these for my nephew after soccer practice, and honestly, the kid is now obsessed. He calls it chocolate energy milk and acts like I'm some kind of wizard when I hand him his glass. Watching his face light up when I sprinkle that extra bit of Milo on top is worth it every single time, even when he inevitably asks for another one immediately after.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Milo powder: This malted chocolate powder is the heart of the drink and honestly, nothing else quite hits that nostalgic spot the same way
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) hot water: Hot enough to dissolve the Milo completely but not boiling hot, we want to melt it without making it bitter
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) cold milk: Whole milk makes it creamy and luxurious but I've used oat milk plenty of times and it's still absolutely delicious
- Ice cubes: As many as your glass can handle, this is an iced drink after all and nobody wants lukewarm chocolate milk
- 1–2 teaspoons sugar or sweetener: Totally optional depending on your sweet tooth, but sometimes a little extra sugar makes it feel like dessert
Instructions
- Mix that magic paste:
- Whisk the Milo powder into the hot water until it's completely smooth and glossy, no clumps allowed. This step is what separates the good ones from the great ones.
- Sweeten to your heart:
- Taste the mixture and add sugar or sweetener if you want, whisking again until it dissolves completely. Trust your taste buds here.
- Build your glass:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, letting them clink against the sides. The more ice, the better the experience.
- Pour and layer:
- Pour that beautiful chocolate mixture over the ice, watching it swirl down. Then add your cold milk and stir gently with a straw, watching the marble pattern form before it all blends together.
Save 
Save Something so simple shouldn't hit the spot this hard, but there you have it. It's become my go-to whenever the weather turns warm or I just need a little pick-me-up that feels like a hug in a glass.
Making It Your Way
Once you've got the basic formula down, that's when the real fun starts. I've discovered that a splash of condensed milk instead of regular milk turns it into this incredibly rich, dessert-like treat that my friends go absolutely crazy for at summer get-togethers.
The Plant-Based Switch
Oat milk is surprisingly fantastic here, adding a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the malted chocolate flavor. My sister-in-law is vegan and she actually prefers this version, says the slight nuttiness of oat milk makes it taste more complex.
Serving Ideas
Whipped cream on top makes this feel like a proper café drink, especially when you dust it with that extra sprinkle of Milo powder. It's the little touches that make something simple feel special.
- Try using a fancy glass, it honestly makes it taste better
- Clean the glass rim with Milo powder for that salted-rim cocktail effect
- Keep extra Milo powder handy for people who want an extra chocolate kick
Save 
Save There's something about that first sip that just makes everything a little better. Enjoy every drop of chocolate goodness.
Recipe Help
- → What makes this Milo latte method different from regular Milo?
This technique dissolves Milo powder in hot water first, creating a smooth chocolate base that blends perfectly with cold milk. The result is a well-integrated, clump-free beverage reminiscent of café-style iced lattes rather than a traditional powdered drink.
- → Can I use plant-based milk alternatives?
Absolutely. Oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk all work wonderfully. Oat milk provides the creamiest texture closest to dairy, while almond milk offers a lighter, nuttier note. The Milo mixture blends seamlessly with any milk variety you choose.
- → How do I prevent Milo powder from clumping in my drink?
The key is dissolving the powder in hot water first. Whisk thoroughly until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This hot chocolate base then mixes easily with cold ingredients, ensuring a consistently smooth texture throughout your beverage.
- → What's the best way to adjust sweetness?
Taste the Milo mixture after dissolving in hot water. Add sugar, honey, or your preferred sweetener gradually, whisking between additions. Remember that the milk will slightly mellow the sweetness, so aim for a slightly sweeter base than your desired final taste.
- → Can I prepare this in advance for later?
For best results, prepare and enjoy immediately. The ice dilutes the mixture over time, and the texture is optimal when fresh. However, you can pre-mix the Milo with hot water and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then add milk and ice when ready to serve.
- → How can I make this latte more indulgent?
Swap regular milk for condensed milk for richness, or top with freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or an extra sprinkle of Milo powder adds visual appeal and intensified chocolate flavor. For a protein boost, blend in a scoop of vanilla protein powder.