Caffe Latte Recipe

Few beverages bridge the gap between comfort and sophistication quite like a Caffè Latte. With its smooth blend of bold espresso and creamy steamed milk, this popular coffee drink has become a staple in cafés across the globe.

What is a Caffè Latte?

The term caffè latte literally translates from Italian to “milk coffee.” True to its name, a caffè latte is made by combining one shot of espresso with steamed milk, usually in a 1:3 ratio, and topped with a thin layer of milk foam. This results in a mellow, creamy drink that highlights the rich flavors of espresso while softening its intensity.

It’s different from other espresso-based drinks:

• A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam.
• A flat white is similar to a latte but with less milk and a smoother microfoam.
• A macchiato uses only a small dollop of milk.

A Brief History

Though its origins lie in Italy, where locals typically drink it at breakfast, the caffè latte as we know it today became a mainstream café offering in the United States during the coffeehouse boom of the 1980s and 1990s. American coffee culture embraced the latte for its approachability and its ability to serve as a canvas for endless flavor variations—from vanilla and caramel to pumpkin spice.

How to Make a Caffè Latte at Home

You don’t need to be a trained barista to make a delicious latte in your own kitchen. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 shot (30ml) espresso or 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
• 3/4 cup steamed milk (whole milk is classic, but oat or almond milk are great too)
• Milk foam (just a small layer)

Instructions:

1. Brew the espresso. If you have an espresso machine, perfect! If not, a Moka pot or AeroPress works well.
2. Steam the milk. Use a milk frother, steam wand, or heat the milk gently and froth it with a whisk or French press.
3. Combine. Pour the espresso into a large cup, slowly add the steamed milk, and spoon a small layer of foam on top.
4. Optional: Add flavored syrup or sprinkle with cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flair.

Latte Art: A Creative Twist

One of the joys of ordering a latte from a coffee shop is the beautiful latte art that often tops your drink. With practice, you can try your hand at pouring hearts, rosettas, or tulips into your morning cup. The secret lies in the texture of the milk and a steady hand.

Customizations and Variations

• Iced Latte: Perfect for hot days—espresso poured over ice and topped with cold milk.
• Flavored Latte: Vanilla, hazelnut, mocha, and even lavender are popular additions.
• Vegan Latte: Swap dairy for plant-based alternatives like oat, soy, almond, or coconut milk.

The caffè latte is more than just a drink—it’s a ritual, a comfort, and a creative outlet all in one. Whether you enjoy it traditional and pure or loaded with seasonal flavors, there’s no denying the enduring charm of this milky espresso classic.

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