Classic Heart Latte Art
Create stunning designs on your latte with this easy-to-follow latte art technique.
Welcome to the world of latte art, where your morning coffee becomes a canvas for creativity! This technique, originating in Italy in the 1980s, has become a global phenomenon, transforming ordinary lattes into Instagram-worthy masterpieces.
Our recipe focuses on the classic heart design, perfect for beginners. We'll use freshly brewed espresso from medium-dark roast beans, ground fine for optimal extraction. The key to successful latte art lies in the milk: whole milk steamed to a silky microfoam texture. With practice, you'll be creating beautiful designs that not only look impressive but also enhance the overall coffee experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Discover why latte art will become your new favorite coffee ritual:
- Impressive presentation: Wow your friends and family with professional-looking lattes
- Customizable designs: Express your creativity with various patterns
- Enhances flavor: Properly steamed milk improves the taste and texture of your latte
- Develops barista skills: Master a valuable technique used in coffee shops worldwide
- Meditative practice: Find zen in the art of perfecting your pour
Classic Heart Latte Art
Create stunning designs on your latte with this easy-to-follow latte art technique.
Equipment
- Espresso machine
- Milk steaming pitcher
- Coffee grinder
- Wide, shallow latte cup
- Thermometer (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) freshly brewed espresso
- 6 oz (180 ml) whole milk
- Medium-dark roast coffee beans
Instructions
- Grind coffee beans finely and prepare a double shot of espresso.
- Fill a milk pitcher about 1/3 full with cold whole milk.
- Steam the milk to create a silky microfoam, aiming for a temperature of 150°F (65°C).
- Tap the pitcher on the counter and swirl to eliminate large bubbles.
- Pour the espresso into a wide, shallow cup.
- Hold the cup at a slight angle and begin pouring the steamed milk slowly from a height of about 4 inches.
- As the cup fills, bring the pitcher closer to the surface and increase the flow rate.
- When the cup is nearly full, bring the pitcher almost to the surface and pour a steady stream through the center of the design.
- As you finish pouring, pull the pitcher back through the design to create a heart shape.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your beautiful latte art creation!