Caffe Latte - Large Recipe
Make Caffe Latte - Large Recipe in just 8m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Espresso
Milk
Finish
Method
Espresso
- 1
Preheat portafilter and cup
Run a blank shot of hot water through the portafilter and into the serving cup to preheat both. Discard the water.
- 2
Dose, distribute and tamp
Weigh 18 g of finely ground espresso coffee into the portafilter. Level or use a distribution tool, then tamp with a consistent 30-pound pressure to create a flat, even puck.
- 3
Brew espresso
Lock the portafilter into the machine and brew a double shot aiming for 60 ml of espresso in about 25–30 seconds. Adjust grind if extraction is too fast or slow.
Milk
- 4
Pour milk
Pour 12 oz (approximately 355 ml) of cold whole milk into a chilled metal steam pitcher. If you prefer a slightly larger drink or to allow for foam, add the optional extra 1 oz.
- 5
Purge steam wand and position pitcher
Purge the steam wand briefly to remove condensation. Submerge the tip just below the milk surface and tilt the pitcher slightly so the wand is near the side.
- 6
Texturize milk
Turn on the steam wand to full power. Keep the tip near the surface for 2–4 seconds to incorporate air (creating microfoam), then lower the pitcher so the tip goes deeper to heat the milk. Aim for a final milk temperature of 60–65°C (140–149°F). The milk should be silky with very fine microfoam and only a thin layer of foam on top.
- 7
Remove and wipe wand
Turn off the steam, wipe the wand with a clean damp cloth immediately, and purge briefly again to clear milk residue.
- 8
Polish milk
Tap the pitcher gently on the counter and swirl the milk to remove large bubbles and integrate foam into a glossy, pourable texture.
Assembly & Finish
- 9
Combine espresso and milk
Pour the brewed 60 ml espresso into the preheated large latte cup (large ~12–16 oz). Immediately pour the textured milk into the center of the espresso. Start high to sink the milk, then move closer to the cup and finish with a controlled wiggle or lift to create latte art if desired.
- 10
Sweeten and garnish (optional)
If using, stir in up to 1 tsp sugar or preferred sweetener to taste. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon or cocoa on top for garnish.
- 11
Serve
Serve immediately while hot (target drinking temperature ~60–65°C / 140–149°F).