Caffellatte: how to make it hot or cold at home

Caffellatte: the basic recipe and its variations

Caffè latte is one of the simplest and most popular drinks in the Italian tradition: the perfect way to start the day, striking the right balance between flavour and energy.

Making it at home is easy, but achieving a truly satisfying result is never a given: enthusiasts are particularly discerning in this regard;

Everyone has their own recipe for caffè latte, which can be adapted to suit the season as well as personal preferences;

Hot caffè latte is best enjoyed during the colder winter months, whilst the iced version, which comes in many variations, feels fresher and lighter as temperatures rise in the summer;

Let’s see how to make a fragrant and delicious caffè latte, perfect not only for breakfast but for any time of day.

The basic ingredients for a perfect caffellatte

A good caffè latte doesn’t require a complicated recipe; on the contrary, what makes the difference is a preference for high-quality ingredients, which have a decisive impact on the final result.

The traditional method is based on a precise balance between milk and coffee, resulting in a smooth, aromatic and easily digestible drink.

Here are the recommended quantities for 1 person (and therefore 1 cup):

● 120–200 ml of whole or semi-skimmed milk, for a more or less creamy consistency;
● 1 small cup of espresso or coffee made in a moka pot;
● sugar to taste (optional); for those who prefer a less sweet flavour, cane sugar is excellent;
● unsweetened cocoa or cinnamon (optional, to add that extra delicious flavour).

The quality of the blend is key: you can use organic coffee to ensure a balanced and natural flavour, particularly suited to everyday consumption.

The milk-to-coffee ratio may vary slightly depending on personal preference. we recommend using more milk: this ensures a more delicate flavour compared to other espresso-based drinks.

Hot caffè latte: the perfect treat to start the day

Hot caffè latte is a classic choice for breakfast, thanks to its balanced flavour and smooth texture. Preparing it correctly results in a comforting drink that combines the delicacy of milk with the aromatic intensity of coffee.

For a successful caffè latte, it is important to pay attention to the temperature of the milk, which should not exceed 60–65°C. Overheating can alter the flavour and reduce the natural sweetness of this ingredient.

The method is simple; let’s go through it step by step:

1. Make an espresso or brew coffee using a moka pot;
2. Heat the milk without bringing it to the boil;
3. For a smoother texture, it should be frothed using a special frother;
4. Pour the hot milk into a large cup;
5. Slowly add the coffee and, if you like, some sugar;
6. Stir gently.

Those who prefer a more intense flavour can opt for whole beans to be ground fresh: a solution that ensures the drink’s aromatic notes are perfectly preserved.

The result is a coffee and milk blend with a well-rounded flavour, ideal for enjoying with biscuits or toast.

Iced caffè latte: a refreshing treat for summer

During the warmer months, you can make an iced caffè latte: a recipe that’s just as simple and enjoyable. This variation retains the flavour of a traditional caffè latte, but with a fresher, lighter feel. It’s ideal as a snack or as an alternative to sugary drinks.

In this case, it is best to make the coffee in advance and leave it to cool completely. The milk can also be kept in the fridge for a few hours, so that the drink is served at a lower temperature.

Here’s how to make it for 1 person:

1. Make a small cup of coffee and leave it to cool;
2. Pour 200 ml of cold milk into a glass;
3. Slowly add the coffee;
4. Stir until the mixture is smooth;
5. Add ice (optional).

To personalise the recipe, explore the wide range of coffees with varying intensities, so you can adapt the flavour to suit cold drinks too. You’ll end up with an even more refreshing drink.

Milk and coffee or caffè latte? Here’s what really sets them apart

People often tend to use ‘milk and coffee’ and ‘caffè latte’ interchangeably, but they aren’t exactly the same drink. The main difference lies in the proportions of the ingredients and the method of preparation.

In recipes based on milk and coffee, the coffee is generally added in smaller quantities than the milk, resulting in a more delicate and less intense flavour. Caffellatte, on the other hand, has a more balanced proportion and a preparation method that is more firmly established in Italian tradition.

There are also other similar drinks, such as cappuccino and latte macchiato, which differ in terms of the presence of milk foam or the amount of espresso used. Understanding these differences is essential for one very simple reason: to choose the drink that best suits your preferences.