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Cafe Latte Recipe

Perfect Cafe Latte Recipe

Learn how to make a creamy, delicious cafe latte at home with just two simple ingredients. This easy recipe creates barista-quality coffee drinks that rival your favorite coffee shop, saving you money while delivering rich flavor and perfect foam every time.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Beverages
Cuisine: Coffee Shop, Italian
Calories: 63

Ingredients
  

Coffee Base
  • 1⅓ cups hot freshly brewed dark roast espresso coffee or strong concentrated coffee
Milk Components
  • 2 cups whole milk for best foam texture
Optional Additions
  • to taste sugar or sweetener optional
  • for dusting cocoa powder or cinnamon optional garnish

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wire whisk
  • Espresso Machine or Coffee Maker
  • 4 coffee mugs
  • Spoon for holding back foam

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients and warm your coffee mugs with hot water, then empty and dry them.
  2. Brew your espresso or strong coffee using your preferred method. You'll need 1⅓ cups of hot, concentrated coffee.
  3. Pour the milk into a medium saucepan and place over medium-low heat. Heat the milk until it reaches 150-160°F, being careful not to let it boil.
  4. Using a wire whisk, whisk the heated milk briskly and vigorously to create foam. Continue whisking until the milk doubles in volume with small, creamy bubbles.
  5. Divide the hot espresso evenly between the four warmed coffee mugs.
  6. Slowly pour the steamed milk into each mug, holding back the foam with a spoon to control the flow.
  7. Top each latte with a generous spoonful of the milk foam you held back.
  8. If desired, dust the foam lightly with cocoa powder or cinnamon. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Pro Tips:
  • Use whole milk for the creamiest foam - skim milk won't foam as well
  • Don't overheat the milk or it will taste scalded and won't foam properly
  • For extra flavor, add vanilla extract or flavored syrups to the milk while heating
  • Clean your whisk immediately after use to prevent milk residue buildup
  • This recipe works great for entertaining - simply multiply ingredients for more servings
Storage: Lattes are best enjoyed fresh and don't store well. However, you can brew extra espresso and refrigerate for up to 3 days.