Latte Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Fill the espresso machine reservoir with fresh water (about 200 ml) and turn the machine on to preheat. If using a stovetop espresso maker, fill the bottom chamber with water up to the safety valve.

Measure and tamp

Use freshly roasted coffee beans ground fine for espresso. Dose about 18-20 g (for a double shot) into the portafilter, distribute evenly and tamp firmly and level.

Brew espresso

Brew two shots (about 60 ml combined) of espresso directly into a warmed 10–12 oz latte cup or into a small pitcher. Aim for a 25–30 second extraction for balanced flavor.

Choose milk

Select whole milk for a creamy latte. If using a plant-based alternative, choose one labeled barista or with added fats for better foam stability.

Pour milk

Pour 8 oz (about 240 ml) cold milk into a steaming pitcher. If you want a sweeter or flavored latte, add 1 tsp sweetener or 1 tsp vanilla extract to the cold milk and gently stir to dissolve.

Purge steam wand

Purge the steam wand for 1–2 seconds to clear any condensation before steaming.

Steam milk

Submerge the steam wand tip just below the milk surface and create a small whirlpool while introducing air for the first 2–3 seconds to create microfoam. Then fully submerge the wand to heat the milk. Steam until the pitcher is hot to the touch and milk reaches 60–65°C (140–149°F). The texture should be glossy, velvety microfoam with very small bubbles.

Polish milk

Tap the pitcher gently on the counter and swirl to eliminate any larger bubbles and integrate foam with the liquid milk for smooth texture suitable for latte art.

Combine espresso and milk

Pour the two espresso shots into your warmed latte cup if not brewed directly into it. Hold the pitcher high and pour the steamed milk into the center for the first part to mix with espresso, then bring the pitcher close and pour more deliberately to allow foam to sit on top, creating a thin layer of microfoam (about 1 cm).

Latte art (optional)

To create latte art, start by pouring in the center, then move the pitcher slightly back and forth and finish with a quick pull-through motion to create a heart or rosette shape.

Garnish

Sprinkle a light pinch (about 1 tsp) of ground cinnamon or cocoa on top if desired. Serve immediately.