How to Make a Caffe Latte.
Learn the art of luscious lattes, which taste
better and cost less than their paper-cup
counterparts.
You will need 10 to 16 oz. of cold milk A
stainless-steel steaming pitcher A thermometer
An espresso machine with a steamer wand 1/4
to 1/2 oz. of freshly ground espresso A tamper
A spoon And a mug or latte bowl A saucepan
A milk frother Your favorite flavored syrup
and sugar or other sweetener.
Clean the steam wand thoroughly before you
use it, since warm milk can breed bacteria.
Step 1.
Pour milk into the pitcher so it is 1/3 to
1/2 full and submerge the thermometer.
Place the steam wand in the milk so the tip
is just below the surface.
The difference between a cafe latte and a
cappuccino is that a latte is espresso mixed
with steamed milk, while a cappuccino is espresso
mixed with milk and foam.
Step 2.
Turn on the steam and watch the milk increase
in volume as it heats and aerates.
Turn off the steam when the thermometer reaches
140 degrees Fahrenheit, and set the pitcher
aside.
Never touch the steam wand or tip once you've
turned on the steam – it's hot!
Be sure to hold the pitcher by the handle.
You can also heat the milk in a saucepan,
and use a milk frother with a plunger to aerate
the milk.
Step 3.
Remove the filter apparatus – or portafilter
– from the espresso machine.
Pour espresso into the portafilter.
Step 4.
Pack the grounds firmly with the tamper to
keep water from rushing through too quickly.
Many portafilters have a "fill line" ¬that
the espresso should reach after it has been
tamped.
Step 5.
Replace and lock the portafilter and place
the mug or latte bowl below the spout.
Press the button to start the water.
It should take about 25 seconds to "pull a
shot" – that is, make 1 to 1 1/2 ounces
of espresso.
A good espresso shot is dark and rich with
a lighter-colored top layer called the crema.
Step 6.
Flavor your latte if you'd like by adding
1/2 ounce of flavored syrup to the espresso.
Pour steamed milk to fill your mug.
Use the spoon to hold back the foam.
Add sugar or sweetener to taste.
Did you know Each year, baristas, or coffee
bartenders, from all over the world serve
up their best lattes and other beverages to
compete for the title of World Barista Champion.
