Cappuccino Recipe

Preheat and dose

Preheat your espresso machine and portafilter by running a blank shot for 5–10 seconds. Dose 18 g of freshly ground espresso into a 58 mm (or appropriate) portafilter basket, level and tamp evenly with 30–40 lb of pressure.

Brew espresso

Brew a double shot of espresso (about 40 ml) directly into a warmed cappuccino cup. Aim for a 25–30 second extraction depending on grind and machine. If using sugar or vanilla, add them to the cup and stir briefly into the hot espresso so they dissolve.

Prepare milk

Pour 150 ml cold whole milk into a chilled stainless-steel steaming pitcher. Whole milk yields the best, creamy microfoam for a cappuccino. If you want to stretch for multiple drinks, keep extra cold milk on hand.

Purge steam wand

Purge the steam wand for 1–2 seconds to remove condensation and then wipe it dry with a clean cloth to prevent water from entering the milk.

Stretch and texture milk

Submerge the steam wand tip just below the milk surface and turn on the steam to introduce air for 2–4 seconds — you should hear a gentle hissing (this creates foam). Then lower the pitcher slightly so the wand tip goes deeper and create a whirlpool to heat and integrate the foam until the milk reaches 60–65°C (140–149°F) or feels hot to the touch (about 20–30 seconds more). The result should be velvety microfoam with small, glossy bubbles.

Tap and swirl

Tap the pitcher on the counter 2–3 times and swirl to collapse any large bubbles and polish the microfoam. This helps the milk pour smoothly and create a clear distinction between espresso and foam.

Combine and garnish

Pour the textured milk into the center of the espresso cup, using a steady stream to allow about one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third milk foam in the final drink. Finish by dusting the crema and foam with 1 tsp cocoa powder or a pinch of ground cinnamon.

Serve immediately while hot. Cappuccino is traditionally 150–180 ml cup — confirm cup size and temperature before presenting. Offer sugar or additional sweetener on the side if desired.