Latte Recipe
Make Latte Recipe in just 12m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Espresso
Milk
Optional additions
Method
Espresso
Preheat and prepare machine
Turn on your espresso machine and allow it to fully heat (about 10–15 minutes). If using a manual or stovetop espresso maker, preheat it with hot water to stabilize temperature.
Dose and tamp
Weigh 18 g of freshly ground espresso (fine grind, slightly finer than drip) into the portafilter basket. Distribute grounds evenly, then tamp firmly and level to create a smooth puck.
Pull the shot
Lock the portafilter into the machine and brew for about 25–30 seconds to yield roughly 60 ml of espresso (a double shot). Adjust grind or dose if shot is too fast or too slow.
Milk
Prepare milk pitcher and steam wand
Pour 10 oz (approximately 300 ml) of whole milk into a chilled stainless-steel steaming pitcher. Purge the steam wand briefly to remove condensation.
Steam and texture milk
Submerge the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk and begin steaming. Create a small whirlpool and introduce microfoam by keeping the tip near the surface for the first 3–6 seconds (you should hear a gentle hissing). Then sink the wand slightly to continue heating while maintaining the whirlpool. Heat milk to 60–65°C (140–150°F) — when pitcher becomes too hot to hold for more than a couple seconds. Aim for velvety, glossy microfoam with very fine bubbles.
Settle milk
Tap the pitcher gently on the counter and swirl to pop any larger bubbles and integrate foam into the milk for smooth texture.
Optional — sweeten or flavor
If you want a sweetened or flavored latte, add 1 tsp simple syrup or granulated sugar (or 1/4 tsp vanilla extract) to the cup before pouring. Stir briefly to dissolve.
Assemble
Combine espresso and milk
Pour the freshly pulled espresso into a warmed 12–14 oz cup. Begin pouring steamed milk from about 3–4 inches above the cup to integrate milk and espresso, then move the pitcher closer and pour more slowly to allow foam to rise to the surface. Finish with a gentle wiggle or heart/rosette motion if you wish to create latte art.
Garnish and serve
Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon if desired. Serve immediately while hot.