Cappuccino / Decaf Recipe

Prepare decaf espresso

If using an espresso machine: dose, tamp and pull two 1-oz shots of decaffeinated espresso into a warmed 6–8 oz cup (total about 2 oz). Aim for a 25–30 second extraction. If you don't have an espresso machine, brew 2 oz of very strong decaf coffee using an Aeropress or Moka pot and pour into the cup.

If you like your cappuccino sweetened, add the sweetener to the hot espresso and stir to dissolve while the espresso is hot.

Prepare milk

Pour 6 oz cold whole milk into a chilled 12-oz milk pitcher. Using whole milk gives a rich, creamy microfoam; substitute 2% for slightly lighter texture or a barista blend non-dairy milk if needed (results will vary).

Texture the milk (steam wand method)

Purge the steam wand for a second. Submerge the tip just below the surface and turn on steam to introduce air for the first 3–5 seconds, producing a hissing sound to create foam. Then drop the pitcher slightly so the tip is just below the surface and angle the wand to create a whirlpool; continue steaming until the milk reaches 140–150°F (60–65°C) and has a velvety, glossy microfoam with about 1:1 ratio of liquid milk to foam for a cappuccino (roughly equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam). Tap the pitcher on the counter and swirl to pop large bubbles and integrate foam.

Alternative: Hand frother or electric milk frother

If no steam wand is available, heat 6 oz milk to 140–150°F (60–65°C) on the stove or in the microwave (do not boil). Froth with a hand frother or electric frother until you obtain dense, creamy foam. For more foam, reserve 1 oz of milk to froth separately and then spoon on top.

Assemble

Hold the cup with the espresso at a slight angle. Gently pour the steamed milk into the espresso, starting from a higher distance to incorporate milk with the espresso. As the cup fills, lower the pitcher and pour more slowly to allow the foam to flow on top, achieving roughly 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foam. Use a spoon to hold back foam if you want less, then top with a spoonful of foam.

Finish

Dust the foam with a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder if desired. Serve immediately.