Latte: everything you need to know to make it right

Latte is a drink that combines the intensity of coffee with the smoothness of milk, offering a comforting and balanced experience. Its popularity extends throughout the world, and for this reason, there are always different ways to prepare it.

Are you interested in learning more about this topic? Learn how to prepare it and get some tips here.

What is latte ?

Also known as coffee with milk, it is a drink that mixes espresso coffee with steamed milk in equal parts. Unlike other drinks that may include more milk or a greater amount of foam, café con leche seeks a perfect balance between the robust flavor of coffee and the creamy texture of milk.

What is the origin and popularity of this drink?

Latte has its roots in the European coffee tradition, especially in countries such as Spain and France. In these places, this drink is an integral part of breakfast and is often enjoyed with toast or pastries. This is how it is usually served almost everywhere in the world.

Differences from other versions

Although latte shares ingredients with other types of coffee , such as latte and cappuccino , there are key differences in the ratio and preparation that give it a unique profile. We've provided the details below:

Latte – This also uses espresso and steamed milk, but with a higher milk ratio. Typically, a latte has a ratio of about 3 parts milk to 1 part espresso, plus a light layer of foam on top. This makes for a smoother drink with a less intense flavor than a latte.
Cappuccino – On the other hand, this has a more balanced structure in terms of proportions. It is made up of equal parts of espresso, steamed milk and milk foam. The dense foam of the cappuccino creates a more airy and light texture, in contrast to the smoother and more uniform texture of the latte.

Steps to prepare a perfect latte

Preparing it perfectly requires attention to detail at every stage of the process. Here are the steps:

The first step is to prepare a high-quality espresso. Fresh coffee beans are used, which must be ground just before preparation to ensure optimal flavour. The espresso must be strong and concentrated, as it will be diluted by the milk.
The next step is to froth the milk. It is important to heat it to a temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Celsius to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without burning it. A hand-held frother is used to incorporate air into the milk, creating a velvety texture that will complement the coffee.
For a classic latte, the ideal ratio is equal parts espresso and steamed milk. In this case, you can adjust this ratio according to personal preference. If you prefer a milder drink, adding more milk is key.

Influence of milk type and preparation method

The type of milk you choose and how you prepare your coffee can significantly influence the taste and texture of your latte .

Type of milk

Whole milk is the most traditional choice for making this drink. Its high fat content contributes to a creamy texture and richer flavor. However, you can experiment with different types of milk. For example, skim milk, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.

Each of these options brings a different flavor and texture profile to the drink. Learn the details of each one:

Whole: offers a rich and creamy texture.
Almonds : Adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
Oatmeal: provides a smooth texture and a neutral flavor.
Skimmed: provides a lighter drink, with less creaminess.
Soy: gives a more robust flavor and a dense texture.

Method of preparing coffee in milk

The method of coffee preparation also plays a crucial role in the final taste of the drink. Espresso is the most common method. But you can experiment with other methods, such as filter coffee or French press.

Each brewing method brings out different characteristics of the coffee beans. This allows you to customize the drink to your tastes. These characteristics are:

Espresso: strong and intense flavor, ideal to balance with milk.
Filtered coffee: smoother flavor, less concentrated.
French Press: Fuller body, ideal for those who enjoy a more robust coffee.

Personalization of latte coffee

One of the advantages of this drink is its versatility. You can customize it in various ways to suit your taste and preference. For example:

Adding flavours: You can give your drink an interesting twist by adding different flavours. For example, vanilla essence and even spices like cinnamon or cocoa powder – the options are endless. These flavours complement the coffee profile and add an extra layer of complexity to the drink.
Adjusting the coffee strength: If you prefer a milder or more intense flavor, you can adjust the amount of espresso in your drink. Adding an extra shot of espresso will intensify its flavor, while reducing the amount of coffee and increasing the milk will result in a smoother, creamier drink.
Experiment with different types of milk: Don't be afraid to try different types of milk. Alternative milks like oat or almond milk provide different flavor nuances that can completely transform your latte.

Latte is a classic drink that combines the richness of both ingredients. Although it is already a traditional recipe, it is always important to be informed in order to enjoy it more. And you know, if you want a new flavor, dare to innovate!