Latte Recipe
Make Latte 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
Optional
Method
Espresso
Prepare and dose
Preheat your espresso portafilter by running a blank shot for a few seconds and discarding. Dose 18 g of freshly ground espresso into the portafilter, distribute and tamp evenly with about 30 lbs of pressure to create a flat, level puck.
Brew
Lock the portafilter into the espresso machine and brew a double shot aiming for approximately 36 ml of espresso in 25–30 seconds. Adjust grind size if extraction time is outside this range. Pour the extracted espresso into a warmed 10–12 oz latte cup.
Milk
Purge steam wand
Purge the steam wand for 1–2 seconds to remove condensation before steaming.
Position and stretch
Submerge the tip of the wand just below the milk surface and position the pitcher so the wand is slightly off-center. Start steaming with the wand near the surface to introduce a small amount of air for about 2–3 seconds (you should hear a gentle 'paper tearing' sound). Then lower the pitcher so the tip is fully submerged to create a whirlpool and heat the milk.
Heat to temperature
Continue steaming until the pitcher feels hot to the touch and the milk reaches 60–65°C (140–149°F). This usually takes about 20–30 seconds depending on your machine. Aim for a velvety microfoam with very fine bubbles and a glossy texture — no large frothy foam like cappuccino.
Polish milk
Tap the pitcher on the counter once and swirl the milk to remove any remaining large bubbles and to integrate foam and liquid, producing a smooth, glossy texture suitable for pouring latte art.
Assembly & Serving
Sweeten (optional)
If you prefer a sweet latte, add 1 tsp of granulated sugar or 1 tsp simple syrup to the hot espresso and stir until dissolved.
Pour milk
Hold the cup with the espresso at a slight angle. Begin pouring the steamed milk from about 3–4 inches above the cup to integrate milk and espresso. As the cup fills (about halfway), lower the pitcher close to the surface and pour with a gentle wiggle to create a small white circle or a basic latte art pattern. Finish with a quick lift and a gentle cut-through to complete the design.
Garnish and serve
Optionally dust the top with a light sprinkle (about 1/4 tsp) of cinnamon or cocoa powder. Serve immediately while hot.