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Classic Cafe Latte

10 min 1 servings Easy
The cafe latte is a beloved coffeehouse staple, known for its smooth blend of espresso and steamed milk. It's a comforting beverage that can be enjoyed at any time of day. Making a cafe latte at home might seem daunting, but with the right technique and ingredients, you can enjoy a professional-quality drink without leaving your kitchen. This version of the cafe latte focuses on balancing the strong, rich flavour of espresso with the creamy, soothing texture of steamed milk. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a coffee novice, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding.

Instructions

1

Prepare the Espresso

Brew a fresh shot of espresso using an espresso machine, stovetop espresso maker, or a strong coffee maker.

Pro tip: Ensure your espresso is hot and freshly brewed for the best flavour.

2

Heat the Milk

Pour the milk into a small saucepan and gently heat over medium-low heat until it's steaming, but not boiling.

Pro tip: Avoid overheating the milk to prevent scorching.

3

Froth the Milk

Use a milk frother or steam wand to froth the milk until it reaches a creamy, microfoam consistency.

Pro tip: The milk should double in volume and be smooth and velvety.

4

Combine Espresso and Milk

Pour the espresso into your favourite mug. Slowly add the steamed milk, holding back the foam with a spoon.

Pro tip: Tilt the mug slightly to create a beautiful layered effect.

5

Add Foam

Gently spoon the remaining milk foam on top of the latte.

Pro tip: For a classic touch, sprinkle with a pinch of cocoa powder or cinnamon.

6

Sweeten if Desired

Stir in sugar if desired, adjusting to taste before serving.

Pro tip: Taste the latte first; some espresso blends have natural sweetness.

💡

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh, high-quality espresso beans for the best flavour.
  • Froth milk to a creamy, microfoam consistency for a smooth texture.
  • Serve immediately for the best taste and temperature.
  • Experiment with different milk types for unique flavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cafe latte?

A cafe latte is a coffee beverage made with espresso and steamed milk, known for its creamy texture.

How many calories are in a cafe latte?

A classic cafe latte, as per our recipe, contains approximately 150 calories.

Can I use non-dairy milk for a cafe latte?

Yes, you can use non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk for a cafe latte.

How do you make a cafe latte?

Brew a shot of espresso, steam and froth milk, combine, and optionally sweeten for a cafe latte.

What's the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?

A latte has more steamed milk and less foam, while a cappuccino has equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and foam.

How do I froth milk without a frother?

You can froth milk by shaking it in a jar or whisking it vigorously on the stove over medium heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cafe latte in a large mug or glass to appreciate the beautiful layers of espresso and milk. Pair it with a light pastry or slice of cake for a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat. If you wish to make your cafe latte ahead of time, prepare the espresso shots and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently before combining with freshly steamed milk. Remember, the fresher the drink, the better the flavour.

Nutrition per serving

150

Calories

8g

Protein

7g

Fat

12g

Carbs

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