How to Make Spanish Cafe Con Leche at Home
Café con Leche is a beloved coffee beverage that combines rich espresso with creamy milk, offering a delightful balance of flavors. This simple homemade recipe serves two and can be customized to suit your taste.
Equipment
- Espresso Machine
- Milk frother
- Coffee grinder
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Coffee Cups
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 2 shots espresso
- 1 1/3 cups milk
- 4 teaspoons sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Start with brewing the espresso. You'll need a high-quality espresso machine or a stovetop Moka pot. Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best flavor. Here’s a simple guide:Measure: Use 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every 1 ounce of water.Fill: Add water to the espresso machine or Moka pot.Pack: Pack the ground coffee into the portafilter (for espresso machine) or the filter basket (for Moka pot).Brew: Turn on the machine or place the Moka pot on the stove.Wait for the espresso to brew. The fresh aroma of the coffee will fill your kitchen. A perfect shot of espresso should take about 25-30 seconds to brew.
- Next, it's time to heat the milk. For an authentic Café con Leche, use whole milk. It creates a creamy texture. Here’s how to do it:Pour: Pour the desired amount of milk into a small saucepan or a milk frother.Heat: If using a saucepan, heat over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.Froth: If using a frother, froth the milk until it's warm and slightly foamy.The milk should be heated to about 150°F (65°C). Avoid boiling the milk, as it can change the flavor and texture. Warm milk blends better with espresso.
- With your espresso brewed and milk heated, it’s time to combine them. Follow these steps for the perfect mix:Pour: Pour the brewed espresso into a large coffee mug.Add Milk: Slowly pour the steamed milk into the mug.Stir: Stir gently to combine the espresso and milk.For a traditional Café con Leche, the ratio is typically equal parts espresso and milk. Adjust the ratio to your preference. Some like it stronger, with more espresso, while others prefer it creamier, with more milk.
- Sweetening your Café con Leche is optional but highly recommended. It enhances the flavor. Here’s how to do it:Sugar: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sugar to your cup. Stir until dissolved.Alternative Sweeteners: Use honey, agave syrup, or a sugar substitute.Taste and adjust the sweetness. You can add more if needed. Sweetened Café con Leche is a treat, especially for kids and those with a sweet tooth.
- Your Café con Leche is ready to serve. Follow these steps to enjoy it best:Cup: Use a large coffee mug to accommodate the mixture.Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top.Serve: Serve immediately while it’s hot.Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture. Café con Leche is perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat. Share it with family and friends. It’s a simple pleasure that brings comfort and warmth.
