You don’t need a pricey espresso machine for a cozy homemade latte. What makes a latte feel like a latte is strong coffee plus plenty of warm, foamy milk. Here are three easy ways to get there.
Step 1: Make strong coffee (pick one)
- Moka pot. The closest thing to espresso on a stovetop. Fill the base with hot water to the valve, add fine-ish ground coffee to the basket without packing it, and heat on medium-low until it gurgles.
- AeroPress. Use 18 g coffee, a fine grind and about 90 g of water for a small, concentrated shot.
- Extra-strong brewed coffee. Use double the usual coffee in your pour-over or drip, about a 1:8 ratio.
Step 2: Heat the milk
Warm milk on the stove or in the microwave until it is hot and steaming but not boiling, around 140 to 150°F (60 to 65°C). Too hot and the milk tastes flat and won’t foam well.
Step 3: Froth it (pick one)
- Jar method. Fill a microwave-safe jar no more than halfway with cold milk, put the lid on and shake hard for 30 to 60 seconds until doubled. Remove the lid and microwave 30 seconds to set the foam.
- French press. Pour warm milk into your French press, then pump the plunger quickly for 20 to 30 seconds.
- Handheld frother. The cheapest gadget that makes a real difference. Froth warm milk for 15 to 20 seconds.
Step 4: Pour
Pour the coffee into a mug, then add the milk, holding back the foam with a spoon, and spoon the foam on top last.
Best milks for foam
Whole milk makes the creamiest foam. For plant milks, look for “barista” versions of oat or soy, which are made to froth.
Flavor ideas
- Honey cinnamon: a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of cinnamon in the coffee
- Vanilla: a splash of vanilla syrup
- Mocha: a spoonful of cocoa or chocolate sauce stirred into the coffee
Prefer it simple? Start with pour-over at home, or go cold with easy cold brew.
Homemade Latte Without an Espresso Machine
Ingredients
Method
- Brew very strong coffee using a moka pot, AeroPress or double-strength drip.
- Fill a microwave-safe jar no more than halfway with milk, close the lid and shake hard 30 to 60 seconds until doubled.
- Remove the lid and microwave about 30 seconds until hot and the foam is set, around 140 to 150°F (60 to 65°C).
- Pour the coffee into a mug, add the milk while holding back the foam, then spoon the foam on top.
Notes
🍩 Want something sweet with your coffee? Our sister site Blue Bear Donuts has easy baked mini donuts, pumpkin spice donuts and classic glazed donuts.
