Latte (cafe Con Leche) Recipe

Prepare equipment

If using an espresso machine, ensure group head and portafilter are clean and warm. Preheat your cup by filling it with hot water, then discard the water before pouring espresso.

Dose and tamp

Weigh 18 g of freshly ground espresso coffee (fine grind suitable for espresso). Distribute evenly in the portafilter basket and tamp firmly and level to create an even puck.

Brew

Brew the espresso with about 36 ml of water (aim for a 1:2 brew ratio) to yield a double shot in roughly 25–30 seconds. If using a Moka pot or AeroPress, brew a strong concentrated coffee yielding roughly the same volume and intensity.

Combine sweetener and milk

Measure 240 ml whole milk into the milk pitcher. Add 1 tsp granulated sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract if using. Stir gently to dissolve sugar before heating; this helps even sweetness.

Steam or heat and froth milk

If you have a steam wand: purge the wand, submerge tip just below the surface and start steaming to introduce small microbubbles for a silky texture. Stretch milk briefly (2–4 seconds) then fully submerge to heat to 60–65°C (140–149°F). Aim for a velvety microfoam without large bubbles. If you don't have a steam wand: heat milk on the stove or in the microwave until hot but not boiling (60–65°C / warm to touch), then froth using a handheld frother or by shaking vigorously in a tightly sealed jar for 30–60 seconds until foamy.

Settle milk

Tap the pitcher on the counter and swirl gently to remove large bubbles and create a glossy texture. Hold the pitcher at a slight angle to prepare for pouring.

Assemble the latte

Pour the double shot of espresso into the warmed cup. Immediately pour the steamed milk into the center of the espresso, starting higher to integrate milk and espresso, then move the pitcher closer and tilt to create a small layer of microfoam on top. Aim for a milk-to-espresso ratio close to 3:1 (about 240 ml milk to ~36 ml espresso) giving a smooth, creamy latte (café con leche style).

Finish and serve

Sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon on top if desired. Serve immediately with a teaspoon. Adjust sweetness to taste by stirring in more sugar if needed.