Welcome to the world of Caffè Latte, a beloved Italian coffee drink that has captured hearts worldwide. This smooth and creamy beverage originated in Italy, where 'caffè latte' simply means 'coffee with milk'. It's the perfect balance of rich espresso and velvety steamed milk, topped with a delicate layer of milk foam.
The key to a perfect Caffè Latte lies in the quality of its components. We'll use freshly roasted, medium-dark espresso beans, ground just before brewing. The milk is gently steamed to create a silky microfoam, which gives the latte its signature smooth texture. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a home coffee enthusiast, this recipe will guide you through creating a café-quality latte in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Discover why Caffè Latte is a global favorite:
- Perfect balance: The rich espresso harmonizes beautifully with creamy steamed milk
- Customizable: Easily adjust the coffee-to-milk ratio to suit your taste
- Versatile: Enjoy it hot or over ice for a refreshing twist
- Barista-quality at home: Master the art of latte-making with simple techniques
- Comforting ritual: Start your day with a soothing, indulgent coffee experience
Classic Italian Caffè Latte
Equipment
- Espresso machine or Moka pot
- Coffee grinder
- Milk steamer or frother
- Latte glass or mug
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) espresso
- 6 oz (180 ml) whole milk
- Optional: 1 tsp sugar or flavored syrup
Instructions
- Grind 18-20 grams of medium-dark roast coffee beans to a fine consistency.
- Brew a double shot (2 oz) of espresso using an espresso machine or stovetop Moka pot.
- While the espresso is brewing, steam the milk. If you don't have a steam wand, heat the milk in a saucepan until hot but not boiling, then froth with a handheld milk frother.
- Pour the espresso into a large latte glass or mug.
- Gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon.
- Finish by spooning a small amount of milk foam on top.
- If desired, add sugar or flavored syrup to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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