The trend of coffee culture that has arisen in recent years has brought about a myriad of different coffee drinks, one of the most popular being those that use frothed milk. Many people may not be aware of how intricate and complex the different types of drinks can be when it comes to incorporating frothed milk into their recipes. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what coffee drinks use frothed milk, to educate and engage readers on the various possibilities that await coffee-lovers the world over.
Frothed milk is formed when air is forced into milk, usually with the help of an espresso machine. This activity makes the milk even more porous, and as a result it has a much creamier texture and a more intense flavor. Furthermore, when designing certain coffee drinks with frothed milk, baristas have the option to use different kinds of milk, such as cow’s milk, soy milk, almond milk, and more. This adds further opportunities to explore different flavor combinations.
It is very common to see cappuccinos and lattes featuring frothed milk. Cappuccinos are created using one part espresso, one part steamed milk, and one part frothed milk, with a layer of milk foam on top. Additionally, a latte consists of two parts steamed milk and one part espresso, with the milk foam being used for decoration and flavor.
Other drinks that incorporate frothed milk include cafè breves, which feature an espresso, steamed half and half (half milk, half cream) and core foam. Steamed milk is also used in the caffè mocha and the London fog, which is an earl grey tea latte with steamed milk and vanilla syrup. Additionally, the crème brûlée latte is a great example, using espresso, steamed milk, and crème brûlée syrup.
Meanwhile, a flat white is a simple espresso with creamy frothed milk. If a person is looking for a dessert-like experience, there is always the option of adding some of the various syrups and flavorings that cafes offer nowadays. Another great choice would be an Americano, which consists of one part espresso and one part hot water.
Café Latte
The café latte is arguably one of the most popular drinks that use frothed milk. It consists of two parts espresso and one part steamed milk and the texture of the drink is heavily dependent on the crafting by the barista. The espresso and steamed milk are combined and then a frothed layer is added on top, giving a pleasant, creamy flavor and enticing aromas.
The temperature of the café latte should be slightly higher than the body temperature, so that it’s hot enough and comfortable to drink. When it comes to choosing the type of milk, whether it is cow’s milk, almond milk, soy milk, or other, it will depend on personal preference.
Although the café latte is traditionally a morning beverage, it can be enjoyed at any time of day. Some people even like to add a shot of chocolate or hazelnut syrup to the espresso for a variation on the classic café latte.
Raspberry Mocha
The raspberry mocha is a modern twist on the traditional mocha, made with frothed milk and espresso, as well as mixed with raspberries. This mix of flavors makes it one of the most popular coffee drinks that use frothed milk. Aside from this, many people prefer a raspberry mocha due to its sweetness and delightful presentation.
When it comes to crafting this particular drink, the barista will always start by preparing an espresso and steamed milk. Then raspberry syrup and a special chocolate syrup are added to the combination. Once that’s done, the barista will finish the drink with a layer of frothed milk and often a sprinkle of chocolate powder as a finishing touch.
The raspberry mocha can be enjoyed by itself or with a side of fresh raspberries. Furthermore, when opting for this beverage, there’s the option to choose from many types of milk. The sweetness of the drink is often complementary simply with almond milk or soy milk, but many people also enjoy the richness of cow’s milk.
Caffè Mocha
The caffè mocha is a beverage that combines steamed and frothed milk, espresso, and chocolate. It is one of the most popular drinks in many countries and is growing in popularity in other areas of the world, as well.
When crafting the perfect caffè mocha, the barista will always start with a shot of espresso, carefully steaming the milk and then adding in a chocolate syrup of choice. This syrup can be either a sweet syrup such as a white chocolate syrup, or a bitter syrup like a dark chocolate syrup. Once that is done, the barista will finish the drink with a layer of frothed milk, and then add a layer of whipped cream or cocoa powder as a topping.
The caffè mocha is extremely versatile and offers multiple options when it comes to the type of milk used. Many people prefer to opt for almond milk, as it adds a pleasant nutty flavor and still keeps the creamy texture one expects in a caffè mocha. Some people like to add vanilla or raspberry syrup to the espresso for a variation on the classic caffè mocha.
Chai Latte
Chai lattes are a combination of black tea and frothed milk, often served with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. It is very comforting and perfect for a chilly autumn or winter day. The taste is sweet and creamy with the perfect balance between tea and milk.
To craft the chai latte, the barista starts by steeping a black tea in hot water, before adding a combination of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, clove, ginger, and black pepper. Cloudy and creamy steamed milk is then added and the drink is finished off with frothed milk.
When it comes to selecting the type of milk, either cow’s milk or a non-dairy option can be used with excellent results. Soy milk is particularly popular amongst those looking for a richer, creamier alternative. Similarly, almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk are often used to create a balanced and satisfying chai latte.
Matcha Latte
The matcha latte is a refreshing and energizing combination of tea and steamed milk, and is one of the most popular coffee drinks that use frothed milk. Typically, it consists of a mixture of Matcha tea powder and hot water, along with steamed and frothed milk. The taste is creamy, sweet and vibrant, with subtle notes of grassiness and toasted nuttiness.
If one wishes to craft the perfect matcha latte, they should begin by first creating a ‘Matcha paste’, whereby Matcha powder is mixed with a small amount of hot water until it has a thick, syrup-like consistency. Milk is then steamed and poured into a cup, followed by the Matcha paste and hot water. The finishing touches are the addition of frothed milk with a rich, creamy texture.
When it comes to selecting the type of milk, one can opt for either cow’s milk or a non-dairy option. Soy milk is often the most popular choice due to its smooth and rich texture, but other alternatives such as almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk can be just as tasty.
Baseball Cap
The baseball cap is a traditional Italian espresso-based drink which incorporates both espresso and frothed milk. It is often served in a cappuccino cup and is sometimes referred to as caffè crèma or mardolce. There are also variations of the drink with flavored syrups, such as hazelnut or almond.
The craftsmanship of the basebal cap is similar to that of a cappuccino. It is crafted with one shot of espresso, with steamed and frothed milk added afterwards. Some baristas may add an extra layer of frothed milk for extra creaminess. To finish it off, the barista will top it with chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
When it comes to selecting the type of milk, cow’s milk is the classic option and gives the drink a great texture and flavor. However, non-dairy options such as soy milk, almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk can all be used as well. Additionally, one can add a shot of nutella or white chocolate and raspberry syrup to the espresso to switch things up a bit.
