Start by brewing a cup of your preferred strong coffee using your favorite method—whether it’s a French press, pour-over, or drip coffee maker. While your coffee is brewing, pour milk into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling.
In a separate small bowl, combine the cocoa powder and sugar. Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring the cocoa and sugar dissolve completely.
Once the coffee is ready, add it to the cocoa and milk blend. Follow it with the salted caramel sauce and vanilla extract, stirring until everything comes together.
Sample your latte to see if the sweetness is to your liking. Adjust by adding more sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce if desired.
Carefully pour the latte into a large mug. Top it generously with whipped cream.
Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the whipped cream, and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Notes
Serve in a clear glass mug to showcase the layers. Optionally, add cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top.