Starbucks Vanilla Spice Latte

Vanilla Cardamom Syrup

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1/4 tsp ground cardamom plus a few smashed pods
1/2 tablespoon vanilla

For the Latte

3-4 teaspoons Vanilla Cardamom syrup (or to taste)
1-2 shots espresso
1 cup hot frothed milk
Whipped cream, for topping
Vanilla Sugar, for topping

Make the syrup. In a saucepan bring the water, sugar and cardamom to a boil. I ground the cardamom as best as I could. In the end I also tossed a few sightly crushed pods in to infuse. Let boil for two minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla. Strain the mixture and pour into a sterilized jar. Keep refrigerated for up to one month.
Make the latte by pouring the espresso and syrup into a mug. Top with the hot frothed milk and foam. Add a swirl of whipped cream if desired and a sprinkle of vanilla sanding sugar. I didn't have sanding sugar so I used some vanilla powdered sugar.