Ever marvel at the beautiful latte art designs gracing your favorite coffee shop drinks? Those aren’t just random swirls – they’re a testament to barista skill and a touch of artistic flair! But how do baristas create these incredible designs on your cappuccinos and lattes? In this tutorial, our experts take you step-by-step through the process of creating a latte art tulip.
WHAT IS LATTE ART?
Latte art is the technique of creating designs or patterns on the surface of a latte, typically made with espresso and steamed milk. These designs can range from simple hearts and rosettas to elaborate works of art featuring animals, flowers, and even abstract patterns.
the barista’s pouring motion, which creates patterns on the surface of the drink.
Latte art requires patience, good technique, and lots of practice. But once you’ve grasped the basics, the possibilities are endless!
HOW TO MAKE A LATTE TULIP ART?
Ingredients
An espresso made with Green Lion Coffee’s Sirga blend coffee beans
Fresh whole milk
Material
Espresso machine with steam wand
Stainless steel milk jug
Preparation
Step 1Prepare the espresso with your coffee machine.
Step 2Prepare your milk froth, and heat it until it is smooth and creamy with small bubbles, which is essential for good pouring.
Step 3Start pouring by slowly pouring the milk into the center of the espresso, to fill the cup without “breaking” the crema of the coffee.
Step 4Increase the pouring height slightly when the cup is half full to allow the milk to mix with the espresso, creating an even base.
Step 5To create the first “petal”, now move the jug closer to the cup and pour your milk foam more quickly. Then move the jug back slightly to isolate this petal.
Step 6Wait half a second, then pour another petal in the same way, slightly overlapping the first.
Step 7Begin finishing the tulip, repeat this technique to create several stacked petals.
Step 8Finally, draw a line through the petals to define the tulip and finish the design.
Step 1
Prepare the espresso with your coffee machine.
Step 2
Prepare your milk froth, and heat it until it is smooth and creamy with small bubbles, which is essential for good pouring.
Step 3
Start pouring by slowly pouring the milk into the center of the espresso, to fill the cup without “breaking” the crema of the coffee.
Step 4
Increase the pouring height slightly when the cup is half full to allow the milk to mix with the espresso, creating an even base.
Step 5
To create the first “petal”, now move the jug closer to the cup and pour your milk foam more quickly. Then move the jug back…
Step 6
Wait half a second, then pour another petal in the same way, slightly overlapping the first.
Step 7
Begin finishing the tulip, repeat this technique to create several stacked petals.
Step 8
Finally, draw a line through the petals to define the tulip and finish the design.
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MAXICOFFEE’S SPECIAL TIP
Once you’ve mastered the tulip, you can try more complex designs such as the heart, the rosetta, or even the dragon. Each design has its own techniques and methodologies, but the fundamental principle remains the same: control the texture and pouring of the milk.
WHICH COFFEE TO CHOOSE FOR YOUR LATTE ART?
Not all beans are created equal for latte art! While delicious for sipping, some coffees might not be the best canvas for your artistic endeavors. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing your latte art coffee:
Espresso is the way to go: Latte art is all about espresso and steamed milk. The espresso should ideally be a blend with a good balance between acidity and bitterness.
Freshness is Key: Just like any good coffee, freshness matters! Choose freshly roasted beans and grind them right before brewing for optimal flavor and crema.
Bold Beans: A richer, full-bodied espresso creates a stunning contrast with the white milk foam, making your latte tulip pop!
Maxicoffee’s Pick: We recommend a medium-dark roast blend specifically designed for espresso. This will give you a rich base and smooth taste perfect for latte art mastery!
Sirga Blend, the ideal coffee for your tulip latte art
Sirga Blend, an organic coffee bean, will give you an aromatic cup with a fine balance of gourmand and woody notes. Its notes of cocoa and caramel also add a pleasant roundness.
Available now
Coffee beans – Sirga Blend – Green Lion Coffee (1kg)
Whole milk is often the best choice for making latte art. Its fat content makes it easier to froth and handle. However, alternatives such as oat milk can also be used for those looking for lactose-free options.
Unleash your inner barista and impress your friends (or Instagram followers) with a stunning latte tulip! This design is a great starting point for your latte art journey. With a little practice and exploration, you’ll be creating coffee masterpieces in no time.
