Latte Recipe
Make Latte Recipe in just 7m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Espresso
Milk
Garnish / Finish
Method
Espresso
Prepare espresso
Dose 18 g of freshly ground espresso into the portafilter, tamp evenly with about 30 lbs pressure, and lock into the espresso machine. Brew a double shot (approximately 36 ml) directly into the serving cup or into a small pitcher. Aim for an extraction time of 25–30 seconds. If you don't have an espresso machine, brew 36 ml strong coffee using a Moka pot or Aeropress.
Milk
Measure milk
Pour 10 oz (about 300 ml) of whole milk into a stainless-steel steaming pitcher. If you prefer a sweeter or flavored latte, add 1 tablespoon flavored syrup or 1 teaspoon sugar to the pitcher now so it dissolves while steaming.
Steam milk
Purge the steam wand briefly, then submerge the tip just below the surface of the milk. Start steaming to introduce a small amount of microfoam: keep the tip near the surface for 3–6 seconds to create velvety foam, then lower the pitcher to fully heat the milk. Aim for a final milk temperature of 60–65°C (140–150°F). The texture should be glossy and smooth with fine microfoam, not large bubbles.
Tap and swirl
Tap the pitcher gently on the counter to remove any large bubbles, then swirl to incorporate foam and create a silky consistency suitable for pouring latte art.
Alternative: stovetop or microwave
If you don't have a steam wand, heat the milk on the stove until warm (not boiling) or microwave for 30–45 seconds. Froth using a handheld frother, French press (pump vigorously), or by shaking in a sealed jar. Aim for small, consistent bubbles and pour immediately.
Assembly & Finish
Combine espresso and milk
If you brewed the espresso into a separate cup, pour it into the serving cup now. Hold the steaming pitcher about an inch above the cup and start pouring the milk steadily into the center. When the cup is ~2/3 full, move the pitcher closer and use slight wrist motions to pour the microfoam and create a simple design, if desired. Finish with a thin stream to set the art.
Garnish
Lightly dust the top with a pinch of cocoa powder or cinnamon if desired. If using a stencil, hold it over the cup and sift the powder for a clean design.
Serve
Serve immediately while hot. A standard latte serving is about 8–12 oz depending on cup size; enjoy with a biscotti or cookie if desired.