Whether you enjoy one in the morning to kickstart your day or as a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, a steaming hot latte never fails to deliver comfort and energy.
With this guide, you'll learn how to make the perfect latte at home, from frothy classics to refreshing iced versions.
What Is a Latte?
Dear Lykkers, a caffe latte or simply latte, is an espresso-based coffee drink. This creamy beverage combines espresso, steamed milk, and a delicate layer of milk foam on top. Traditionally, a latte follows a one-third espresso to two-thirds steamed milk ratio. However, coffee shops often add more milk to make it extra rich and creamy, resulting in a mellow espresso flavor.
How To Make Latte Art with Handheld Frother | 2 MINUTES VIDEO TUTORIAL
Video by Coffee to Art
What's the Difference Between a Latte and a Cappuccino?
The Milk-to-Espresso Ratio
Lattes and cappuccinos share the same core ingredients—espresso, steamed milk, and foam—but differ in proportions. A latte uses more milk, creating a creamier beverage, while cappuccinos feature equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam.
Distinctive Layers
The higher foam content in a cappuccino forms its distinct layered structure, whereas lattes have a smoother, milk-dominant consistency. To remember, think "latte = lots of milk," often served in larger cups.
What Milk to Use for a Latte
Best Dairy Options
Whole milk is the go-to choice for lattes, offering the perfect fat-content to create silky, pourable foam with a sweet, rich taste. Lower-fat options like 2% and skim milk also work well but lack the same decadence.
Non-Dairy Alternatives
For plant-based options, oat milk reigns supreme with its creamy, frothy texture. Almond milk is another favorite, best frothed at room temperature, while soy milk is a solid choice. Skip rice, macadamia, or cashew milk, which don't froth effectively.
Frothing Milk
A milk frother simplifies the process, but if you don't have one, there are manual methods. Shake milk in a jar until it doubles in volume, remove the lid, and heat it in the microwave or stovetop. Alternatively, heat milk first and blend it in a high-powered blender until frothy.
How to Make a Latte at Home
Step 1: Brew and Pour the Espresso
Brew two shots of espresso (about 2 ounces) using an espresso machine. Pour it into your mug. For extra warmth, preheat your mug with boiling water before pouring the espresso.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
Heat ½ cup milk to 150°F in a small saucepan fitted with a thermometer. Stir frequently to avoid scalding. Transfer to a glass measuring cup, tapping it on the counter to remove large bubbles.
Step 3: Pour the Milk
Carefully pour the steamed milk over the espresso, using a spoon to hold back the foam for a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Top with Foam
Finish your latte by adding the reserved foam on top. Feeling creative? Use the foam to craft latte art!
How to Make an Iced Latte
Step 1: Prepare the Ice
Fill a tall glass with ice.
Step 2: Brew and Pour the Espresso
Brew two shots of espresso (or substitute with cold brew) and pour over the ice.
Step 3: Add Sweetener
Mix in 1 ounce of liquid sweetener like simple syrup or agave nectar for a touch of sweetness.
Step 4: Add Milk
Pour ½ cup milk into the glass and stir to combine. For a frothier texture, shake all the ingredients in a shaker before straining over ice.
How to Flavor Your Latte
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Combine milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, poke a vent hole, and microwave until hot. Whisk until foamy, then pour over espresso. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice.
Matcha Latte
For a tea-based twist, sift matcha powder into a bowl, add boiling water, and whisk until foamy. Add your preferred milk and whisk again. Enjoy a vibrant, earthy matcha latte.
The Perfect Latte Awaits
Mastering the art of the latte allows you to enjoy coffee-shop-quality drinks at home. Whether hot or iced, classic or flavored, your latte possibilities are endless. So grab your espresso, steam that milk, and savor the perfect homemade latte!
