08/07/2026
A Caffè latte (commonly called a latte) is an espresso-based coffee drink made with espresso and a larger amount of steamed milk, finished with a thin layer of silky microfoam.
Standard Latte Recipe
* Espresso: 1–2 shots (30–60 ml)
* Steamed milk: 180–240 ml
* Microfoam: About 0.5–1 cm on top
A typical latte is served in a 240–360 ml (8–12 oz) cup.
Taste
* Smooth, creamy, and milky
* Milder coffee flavor than a cappuccino
* Naturally sweeter because steaming milk brings out its sweetness
How to make a latte
1. Grind and tamp fresh coffee.
2. Extract espresso in 25–30 seconds.
3. Steam milk to 60–65°C, creating smooth, glossy microfoam.
4. Pour the steamed milk into the espresso, keeping the foam thin and silky.
5. Finish with latte art, such as a heart, tulip, or rosetta.
For barista training, a simple way to explain the difference is:
* Latte = More milk, less foam, creamy texture.
* Cappuccino = Less milk, more foam, stronger coffee taste.