Caffe latte

Caffe latte

15 min
Step into the world of Italian coffee with our classic cafe latte recipe, blending rich espresso with smooth milk. This favourite drink stands out with its simple yet extraordinary flavours, offering a creamy and comforting taste.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/caffe-latte/

Instructions

  • Bring the milk to a boil in a thick-bottomed pan, stirring continuously.
  • Divide the milk into two tall glasses (which can withstand heat).
  • Carefully add the coffee, ideally down the domed side of a spoon to form 2-3 layers.
  • Serve the hot coffee drink immediately.
Enjoy!

Cafe latte FAQs

Here we show you the most frequently asked questions about caffe latte. Read below!

What is a cafe latte?
A cafe latte, often just called a latte, is a classic coffee drink blending espresso with steamed milk and usually topped with a bit of foam. It's known for its smooth texture and gentler coffee taste, compared to other espresso-based drinks. Lattes are perfect for those who like coffee's flavour but with a softer touch from the creamy milk.
Can I make a latte without espresso?
Definitely! Simply substitute the espresso with a strongly brewed and similarly flavoured coffee. A general recommendation is to use a 15:1 ratio of coffee to water for a strong brew that will mimic the depth and richness you'd expect from an espresso-based drink.
What are some popular variations of a cafe latte?
To add a personal touch to your cafe latte, try mixing in flavoured syrups like caramel or hazelnut for added sweetness. Spices are also a great way to add flavour – from a sprinkling of cinnamon or allspice to infusing the milk with ginger or even lavender.

Ingredients

Milk
300 ml
Very strong coffee (e.g. espresso), hot
150 ml

Get ready to impress with every sip by transforming your cafe latte with these practical tips.

Learn to master frothing, embrace different milk options and create eye-catching layers.

Master the art of milk frothing

To froth milk beautifully for a cafe latte, start with cold milk. Whisk or use a milk frother to create a smooth, fine foam. A great alternative is to shake the milk in a jar, then microwave it briefly to warm and set the foam. Aim for a consistent froth that will make your latte creamy and delicious from start to finish.

Explore different types of milk for your cafe latte

When crafting the perfect cafe latte, different types of milk will create different tastes and textures. Traditional whole milk is a popular choice for its creamy consistency and rich flavour, but there are many other options to explore, including soy, almond or oat drinks. Each variation will add a unique taste and frothing quality to your drink. Experiment with different types – or even a combination of different options – to discover your perfect pairing.

Try these layering techniques

To create a cafe latte with impressive layers, add your coffee over the back of a spoon as it enters the steamed milk. This technique allows the coffee to sit gently on the milk without mixing immediately. You'll see a striking contrast of dark espresso and light milk, pleasing both the eye and tastebuds. This method not only looks good but also lets the flavours blend slowly as you drink, starting with creamy milk and ending with strong espresso.

Pair your cafe latte with this

The smooth, balanced flavour of a cafe latte means it can be paired with a wide variety of foods. Everything from sweet, zesty lemon tarts to savoury quiches and pies will serve as the perfect complement. Or why not a delicious raisin and oatmeal cookie?