Cappuccino Recipe
rich and smooth espresso-style coffee drink.
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Ingredients
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Espresso
Milk
Optional finishes
Method
Espresso
- 1
Preheat and dose
Warm the portafilter and cup by flushing a short burst of hot water through the group head into the cup, then discard the water. Dose 18 g of freshly ground espresso into the basket and distribute evenly.
- 2
Tamp
Level the coffee and tamp with 30 lbs (13.6 kg) of pressure to create a smooth, even puck. Wipe any grounds from the rim of the portafilter.
- 3
Brew
Lock the portafilter into the machine and start extraction. Brew approximately 36 ml of espresso in 25–30 seconds. Aim for a rich, caramel-colored crema. If using a stovetop or manual method, produce a concentrated 30–40 ml espresso-style shot.
Milk
- 4
Prepare pitcher and milk
Pour 150 ml cold whole milk into a chilled steam pitcher. If you prefer a non-dairy alternative, use the same volume of your chosen milk. Place the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk.
- 5
Stretch and texture milk
Start steaming with the wand near the surface to introduce air for 3–5 seconds, producing a slight hissing sound. Then submerge the wand deeper to heat and create microfoam. Aim for a final milk temperature of 60–65°C (140–149°F) and a velvety, fine microfoam texture with tiny bubbles.
- 6
Polish milk
Tap the pitcher gently on the counter to remove large bubbles, then swirl the milk to integrate foam and liquid, creating glossy, paint-like texture suitable for pouring.
Assemble and finish
- 7
Sweeten (optional)
If you want your cappuccino sweetened, add 1 tsp granulated sugar or 1 tsp simple syrup to the espresso and stir briefly to dissolve.
- 8
Pour
Hold the cup with the espresso at a slight tilt. Begin pouring the milk from a few inches above to incorporate milk and crema, then move the pitcher closer and pour steadily to allow the foam to sit on top. Aim for a ratio roughly 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foam (about 150 ml total beverage).
- 9
Garnish
Lightly dust the foam with up to 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder if desired. Serve immediately.