The ultimate recipe to make a perfect latte.

The Art of the Perfect Latte

The latte is one of the most beloved coffee drinks in the world, and for good reason. When made correctly, it offers the perfect balance of rich espresso and silky steamed milk. Here's how to craft one at home.

What You'll Need

Before we begin, gather your equipment and ingredients:

1. Freshly roasted coffee beans (we recommend our house blend)
2. An espresso machine with a steam wand
3. A milk pitcher
4. Fresh, cold whole milk
5. A thermometer (optional but helpful)

Step 1: Prepare Your Espresso

Start with freshly ground coffee. For a standard latte, you'll want a double shot of espresso. The key is to aim for a 25-30 second extraction time for optimal flavor.

Step 2: Steam Your Milk

This is where the magic happens. Pour cold milk into your pitcher, submerge the steam wand just below the surface, and create a whirlpool motion. You're aiming for microfoam - tiny, velvety bubbles that give lattes their signature texture.

Step 3: The Perfect Pour

Pour the steamed milk into your espresso in a steady stream. Start from a height, then bring the pitcher closer as you fill the cup. This technique creates beautiful latte art while ensuring the perfect milk-to-espresso ratio.

Pro Tips

• Use fresh, quality beans - they make all the difference
• Keep your equipment clean for the best results
• Practice your milk steaming technique - it takes time to perfect
• Serve immediately while the foam is still fresh

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Visit Mad Bean Coffee House to see our baristas in action, or pick up a bag of our signature beans to practice at home.