Café Au Lait Recipe

Brew coffee

Brew 1 cup of strong hot coffee. Use your preferred method (drip, French press, or a strong brewed coffee that approximates espresso strength). Aim for about 180–200°F (hot but not boiling) and a bold flavor so it stands up to the milk.

Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a pre-warmed 12–16 oz (350–475 ml) cup or mug. Pre-warming the cup keeps the drink hotter longer.

Heat and steam milk

Measure 1 cup of your chosen milk. Heat and steam it until it reaches 150–155°F (65–68°C) and develops a light, microfoam texture. If you have an espresso machine steam wand, use it to create smooth microfoam. If not, heat the milk on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot but not boiling, then froth using a handheld milk frother or a French press (pump the plunger vigorously) to create some foam.

Combine coffee and milk

Pour the steamed milk gently into the cup with the brewed coffee, using a 1:1 ratio (about 1 cup milk to 1 cup coffee). Hold back the foam with a spoon and then spoon a thin layer of foam on top to finish.

Sweeten and garnish (optional)

If you want sweetness, stir in up to 1 teaspoon of your chosen sweetener into the coffee before adding milk so it dissolves evenly. Finish with an optional dusting of ground cinnamon or cocoa on the foam (about 1 teaspoon) to taste.

Serve immediately while hot.