The Brick Recipe
Make The Brick Recipe in just 12m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Coffee Base
Milk & Cream
Sweetener & Flavor
Finishing & Garnish
Tools
Method
Coffee Base
- 1
Brew espresso
Brew a double-strength espresso using 2 tablespoons finely ground espresso with about 60 ml hot water (use an espresso machine, moka pot, or concentrated AeroPress method). Aim for a strong, slightly syrupy extraction. Pour the brewed coffee into a pre-warmed 8–10 oz cup.
Milk & Cream Preparation
- 2
Heat and combine dairy
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine 150 ml whole milk and 30 ml heavy cream. Warm gently until the mixture reaches about 60–65°C (140–150°F) or until steaming but not boiling. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching.
- 3
Add butter and sugar
Add 5 g unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar to the warmed milk-cream mixture. Whisk until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves completely, about 30–45 seconds. The mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.
- 4
Flavor
Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla paste (or extract) and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Taste and adjust: if you prefer slightly sweeter, add up to 1/2 teaspoon additional brown sugar.
Frothing & Assembly
- 5
Froth milk mixture
Use a handheld frother, steam wand, or vigorous whisking to introduce microfoam into the milk mixture. Aim for a dense, velvety foam rather than big bubbles. If steaming with a wand, texture to a glossy, thick microfoam; if using a whisk, whisk rapidly for 30–45 seconds until volume increases about 20–30%.
- 6
Finishing & Garnish
- 7
Optional cold butter top
For an extra-brick-like richness, place a 5 g cube of cold unsalted butter on top of the foam — it will slowly melt into the hot drink and create a silky surface.
- 8
Garnish and serve
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon grated dark chocolate over the foam and add a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired. Serve immediately with a small spoon for stirring. The drink is called 'The Brick' for its dense, substantial mouthfeel and compact, rich flavor.
