Loading
Many of us have a custom of stopping in to our preferred coffee shop daily or more, just to pick up a latte. A latte is a creamy and caffeinated pick-me-up that fits flawlessly into a sleepy afternoon.Whether you take a break and sip on one at the table in front of the fireplace or you get it to go on your way back to work, a latte can make your working day a little bit better.
While there is nothing entirely wrong with buying yourself a little luxury on occasion, it can become a hassle when the costs start adding up over time. If the common medium latte costs $4, then you will spend about $20 a week or $1,000 a year for your creamy caffeine hit. In a tight economic climate, most of us can find better ways to use up that kind of hard cash.
The good thing is, you don't have to relinquish your treat just because you need to tighten your belt. Learn a few small barista abilties and you can find out how to create a latte. You'll save lots of dollars and you might find out about a new hobby in the process.
First turn on your espresso machine and steam a container of milk. Use 2% milk for the best froth and foam, and start your milk ice-cold. Steam the milk until it hits 150 degrees, then maneuver the steam wand to the top of the milk to create a thick froth on top of the pitcher.
Set the milk pitcher down and move on to the espresso shots. Use fresh espresso beans and grind them before you pull the shots. If you are making a small latte of 8 oz. or less, make one shot of espresso. If your latte is a tall one or if you're using an outsizedfancy latte mug, make it two shots.
Drop the shots into the bottom of the latte cup. Lift the pitcher with one hand and a long-handled tablespoon in the other. Grip the spoon bowl against the spout on the milk pitcher. This will allow the creamy milk to flow out while deflecting the thicker whipped foam from the top layer.
Fill up the latte cup 90% full with the creamed milk. Lift away the spoon and use it to help scoop a dollop of froth from the pitcher onto the latte surface to complete your drink.
Plain lattes are fine and frothy drinks, but innovative baristas have invented 1000s of variations with unique flavorings and toppings. Try including flavored syrups to your latte, pouring the syrup in with the espresso before adding the frothed milk. Top your drink with a indulgent swirl of whipped cream and some chocolate-covered espresso beans. Shake powdered cinnamon or cocoa on top of the froth for a calorie-free but pleasing accent.
Play with flavors and colors. How to make a latte special is totally up to you and your particular taste. The flavorings you like best will make the most desirable latte you've ever tasted.