French Latte Recipe
Craft a creamy French latte at home with rich espresso and smooth steamed milk for a cozy, café-quality experience.
Equipment
- Espresso machine or Moka pot
- Milk frother or steam wand
- Coffee grinder (if using whole beans)
- Thermometer (optional)
- Latte cup or mug
Ingredients
- 1 shot 1 oz of espresso
- 6 oz of whole milk
- Sugar to taste optional
- 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract optional
Instructions
Prepare the Espresso
- Grind fresh coffee beans to a fine consistency suitable for espresso.
- Brew a single shot of espresso using your espresso machine or Moka pot.
- Pour the espresso into your latte cup.
- Note: Freshly ground coffee gives you a more robust and aromatic flavor—don’t skip this!
Steam the Milk
- Pour 6 ounces of whole milk into a frothing pitcher.
- Use a steam wand to heat the milk to around 150°F (65°C), creating a creamy microfoam.
- Tap the pitcher on the counter to eliminate large bubbles.
- Warning: Overheating the milk above 160°F (70°C) can scald it, changing the flavor entirely. Keep it smooth and velvety for the best results.
Combine Espresso and Milk
- Pour the steamed milk into the cup with espresso, using a spoon to hold back the foam initially.
- Finish by spooning the remaining foam on top.
- Fun Fact: The perfect French latte has a 1:3 ratio of espresso to steamed milk.
Add Sweeteners (Optional)
- Stir in sugar or vanilla extract for an added touch of sweetness, if desired.
- Note: A dash of vanilla brings out an extra layer of flavor that balances beautifully with the coffee.
Notes
Here are a few tricks to make your French latte stand out:
- Use whole milk for a creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, try almond or oat milk.
- Pre-warm your latte cup by filling it with hot water first. This keeps your drink warmer for longer.
- Experiment with latte art by practicing with different pouring techniques. It’s all in the wrist!