What is a Latte? All You Need to Know About Latte Coffee

What is a Latte? All You Need to Know About Latte Coffee

Latte coffee, also known simply as a "latte," is one of the most popular coffee drinks worldwide. It is beloved for its creamy texture and balanced flavour, offering a delightful blend of strong espresso and smooth, steamed milk. Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a casual drinker curious about what makes a latte unique, this article will provide everything you need to know about this beloved beverage.

Sessions of this article:

  • What Is a Latte?

  • Latte Origins

  • How to Make a Latte

  • Latte Art: A Creative Expression

  • Variations of the Classic Latte

  • Conclusion

What Is a Latte?

A latte is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, typically topped with a small layer of frothy milk foam. The word “latte” comes from the Italian term “caffè latte,” which means “milk coffee.” It’s traditionally served in larger cups and emphasizes the creaminess of the milk, unlike other espresso-based drinks, like cappuccinos or macchiatos, which prioritize foam or espresso intensity.

Components of a Latte

  • Espresso: A latte is built on one or two shots of espresso, depending on preference. This forms the base of the drink and adds a rich coffee flavour.
  • Steamed Milk: The bulk of the drink consists of steamed milk, which balances out the bitterness of the espresso and adds a velvety texture.
  • Milk Foam: A thin layer of milk foam sits on top of the latte, adding an airy finish and sometimes serving as a canvas for latte art.

Latte vs. Other Coffee Drinks

Lattes are often confused with similar espresso-based beverages, but key differences set them apart:

  • Latte vs. Cappuccino: The primary difference between a latte and a cappuccino is the milk-to-foam ratio. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, whereas a latte has more steamed milk and just a light layer of foam.

  • Latte vs. Flat White: A flat white is similar to a latte but has less milk and typically no foam. Flat whites are usually smaller and more espresso-forward.

  • Latte vs. Macchiato: A macchiato is essentially an espresso "marked" with a small amount of milk or foam. Being a much stronger, more concentrated coffee.

Latte Origins

The latte, as we know it today, has its roots in European coffee culture, but it has evolved into its own unique beverage over time. In Italy, the term “caffè latte” was traditionally a home-brewed drink, consisting of brewed coffee and hot milk, often consumed at breakfast. The modern latte, which includes espresso and steamed milk, gained popularity in American coffeehouses in the 1980s.

The Rise of the Latte in Coffee Culture

In the late 20th century, the latte became a staple in specialty coffee shops, particularly in the United States and Europe. As coffee culture expanded, so did the customizability of lattes. Today, it's common to find lattes flavoured with syrups, like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, and even alternative milk options like almond, oat, or soy milk.

How to Make a Latte

Making a latte at home is easier than you might think, especially with the right equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Ingredients:

  • Espresso: One to two shots, depending on your preference.
  • Milk: Any type of milk can be used, though whole milk produces the creamiest texture.
  • Optional: Flavored syrups or sweeteners.

Ingredients:

  1. Brew the Espresso: Start by pulling one or two shots of espresso using an espresso machine. If you don’t have one, you can use a strong coffee brewed with a moka pot or AeroPress.
  2. Steam the Milk: Use a steam wand to heat and froth the milk until it reaches around 150°F (65°C). If you don’t have a steam wand, you can heat the milk in a microwave or on the stovetop and use a milk frother or whisk to create the foam.
  3. Pour the Milk: Slowly pour the steamed milk into the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon until the cup is almost full. Add the foam on top to finish.
  4. Optional Add-Ons: Customize your latte by adding flavoured syrups or toppings like cinnamon or cocoa powder.

Latte Art: A Creative Expression

One of the most recognizable and celebrated aspects of a latte, particularly in specialty coffee shops, is latte art—the intricate designs created by skillfully pouring steamed milk into freshly brewed espresso. Latte art transforms a simple coffee drink into a visual experience, turning each cup into a canvas for creative expression.

The process begins with carefully steaming milk to achieve a fine microfoam, which is essential for crafting designs. The foam must be smooth, velvety, and filled with tiny bubbles, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the espresso. As the barista pours, they manipulate the flow and angle to form popular patterns such as hearts, rosettas (leaf-like shapes), and tulips.

Variations of the Classic Latte

The classic latte is incredibly versatile, with numerous variations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some popular types:

  • Flavoured Lattes: Many people enjoy adding syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to enhance the flavour of their latte. These syrups blend well with the espresso and milk, creating a sweeter and more aromatic experience.

  • Iced Latte: For a refreshing twist, an iced latte combines espresso with cold milk and ice, making it a popular summer drink. Some iced lattes are topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

  • Matcha Latte: Made with powdered green tea (matcha) instead of espresso, this version has a vibrant green colour and a more earthy flavour.

  • Chai Latte: Instead of coffee, a chai latte uses spiced black tea, creating a warming, spiced alternative to the traditional latte.

  • Alternative Milk Lattes: Many people opt for plant-based kinds of milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, to make dairy-free lattes.

Conclusion

The latte is a versatile and delicious coffee drink with a rich history and endless customization possibilities. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, classic or flavoured, it’s easy to see why the latte has become a global coffeehouse favourite. From its creamy texture to the opportunity for artistic expression, the latte offers something for everyone. Whether you're sipping it in a café or making one at home, there's always more to discover about this beloved beverage.

So the next time you’re at a coffee shop or making your morning brew, you’ll know exactly what goes into the perfect latte.

Coffee Latte FAQs

What’s the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?

The primary difference is the milk-to-foam ratio. A latte has more steamed milk and just a light layer of foam, while a cappuccino has equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, giving it a thicker, foamier top layer.

How much caffeine is in a latte?

The caffeine content in a latte depends on the number of espresso shots. A standard latte made with one shot of espresso has about 63 milligrams of caffeine. A larger latte with two shots has approximately 126 milligrams.

Can I make a latte without an espresso machine?

Yes! While having an espresso machine makes it easier, you can use strong coffee brewed with a moka pot or AeroPress as a substitute. For steaming milk, you can heat it on the stove or in the microwave and then froth it with a handheld frother or whisk.

What is the best milk to use for a latte?

Whole milk is the most common choice because it creates a rich and creamy texture. However, other options like skim milk, almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk can also be used, though they may result in slightly different textures and flavors.

What is the difference between a latte and a flat white?

A flat white has a higher ratio of coffee to milk and usually less foam than a latte. It’s typically smaller in size and has a stronger espresso flavor, making it a more coffee-forward drink.

Can I add flavors to my latte?

Absolutely! Many people enjoy adding flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or seasonal options like pumpkin spice to their lattes. These syrups add sweetness and depth to the drink.