What Is a Latte?
A caffe latte, or latte for short, is an espresso-based coffee drink. As far as what is in a latte, the popular drink consists of espresso, steamed milk and a thin layer of milk foam. The classic latte ratio is one-third espresso to two-thirds steamed milk, although coffee shops and recipes often use more milk to create a rich and creamy beverage with a subtle espresso flavor.
How to Make a Latte at Home, Step-by-Step
Making a skinny latte at home is simple and requires just a few ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso (or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee)
- 3/4 cup low-fat or non-dairy milk (e.g., almond, oat, or skim milk)
- Sweetener of choice (optional, such as sugar, stevia, or syrup)
Equipment:
- Espresso machine, coffee maker, or VIGOROUS portable coffee machine
- Milk frother (handheld or built-in) or a whisk
- Mug
Instructions:
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
1. Use your espresso machine or portable coffee maker (like the ones from VIGOROUS!) to prepare one shot of espresso.
2. Pour the espresso into your mug.
Step 2: Heat the Milk
1. Pour your chosen milk into a small saucepan and gently heat it on the stove over low to medium heat. Avoid boiling.
2. Alternatively, microwave the milk in a microwave-safe container for about 30–45 seconds.
Step 3: Froth the Milk
1. Use a milk frother or a whisk to froth the heated milk. If you don’t have either, pour the milk into a sealed jar, shake vigorously, and then heat it briefly again.
2. Aim for a velvety foam texture.
Step 4: Combine
1. Pour the frothed milk over the espresso in your mug, holding back the foam with a spoon.
2. Spoon the foam on top for a professional-looking finish.
Step 5: Sweeten (Optional)
1. Stir in your preferred sweetener or syrup to taste.
2. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or cocoa powder on top if desired.
Enjoy your homemade skinny latte! Let me know if you'd like tips on customizing it further. ☕
Ingredients:
- 1 shot of espresso (or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee)
- 3/4 cup low-fat or non-dairy milk (e.g., almond, oat, or skim milk)
- Sweetener of choice (optional, such as sugar, stevia, or syrup)
Equipment:
- Espresso machine, coffee maker, or VIGOROUS portable coffee machine
- Milk frother (handheld or built-in) or a whisk
- Mug
Instructions:
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
1. Use your espresso machine or portable coffee maker (like the ones from VIGOROUS!) to prepare one shot of espresso.
2. Pour the espresso into your mug.
Step 2: Heat the Milk
1. Pour your chosen milk into a small saucepan and gently heat it on the stove over low to medium heat. Avoid boiling.
2. Alternatively, microwave the milk in a microwave-safe container for about 30–45 seconds.
Step 3: Froth the Milk
1. Use a milk frother or a whisk to froth the heated milk. If you don’t have either, pour the milk into a sealed jar, shake vigorously, and then heat it briefly again.
2. Aim for a velvety foam texture.
Step 4: Combine
1. Pour the frothed milk over the espresso in your mug, holding back the foam with a spoon.
2. Spoon the foam on top for a professional-looking finish.
Step 5: Sweeten (Optional)
1. Stir in your preferred sweetener or syrup to taste.
2. Sprinkle a little cinnamon or cocoa powder on top if desired.
Enjoy your homemade skinny latte! Let me know if you'd like tips on customizing it further. ☕
