Latte macchiato, cappuccino, cappuccino, latte macchiato: it can be tricky to tell the difference. In this primer, we’ll explain the…
- Home
- Everything You Need To Know About Milk Foam
HOW-TO
Everything You Need To Know About Milk Foam
Written by Jigisha
If milky coffees, like cappuccino, have been staples in coffee shops for many years, a small revolution is taking place. Do you want to add a delicate, frothy, and delicious touch to your cappuccino? Plant-based milks are making their way into your cup, all while enhancing the coffee’s aromas. Here’s an overview of the different types of milk available for making your cappuccino and how to foam milk for the perfect texture.
Discover more about milk foam
Our Youtube channelCHOOSING THE BEST MILK FOR CAPPUCCINO
Cappuccino remains a timeless milky drink in coffee shops. Traditionally, cow’s milk has been the go-to choice for preparing it.
However, plant-based alternatives are gradually taking over. We’ll reveal everything you need to know about choosing the right milk for your cappuccino, including tips on how to make foaming milk for that perfect blend.
Cow Milk
When thinking about making a cappuccino, cow’s milk might be the first choice that comes to mind.
It’s a classic for creating milky beverages. We recommend using whole cow’s milk for the best results.
Baristas often opt for high-fat milks like Nutroma. This whole milk is creamier and easier to texture. With it, you can create a soft and silky milk foam that settles beautifully on top of the coffee. Baristas particularly favour it for creating latte art.
However, you can also use semi-skimmed milk, as it’s entirely possible to whip up a superb milk foam with it.
Animal-derived milk provides a stable and enduring foam. To enhance the contrast between the coffee and the milk, baristas sprinkle cocoa on top of the drink, adding a decorative and flavourful touch.
Plant-Based Milks
Plant-based milks are gradually becoming a staple for coffee enthusiasts, offering a true taste adventure. Each type of plant milk adds its own unique flavour twist, providing almost limitless possibilities for experimentation.
Beyond taste, these milks have two undeniable benefits.
Firstly, their lactose-free nature makes them easily digestible for everyone. Secondly, they offer a way to move away from animal exploitation and the environmental impacts associated with it, aligning with more sustainable and ethical consumer choices.
Different plant-based milks for your cappuccino
Almond Milk
Almond milk is perhaps the most popular and well-known plant-based milk, firmly embedded in the consumption habits of many. However, it doesn’t pair well with all types of coffee. Almond milk can enhance or introduce a nutty flavour to your drink. Depending on your preference, opt for sweetened almond milk to reduce any bitterness it might add. It’s best to avoid adding it to overly hot or acidic coffee to prevent curdling. Conversely, if you’re looking for creamy milk foam, almond milk is an excellent choice! Its significant protein content helps the foam form quickly and provides a texture similar to traditional cow’s milk.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is another superstar among plant-based milks and one of the most commonly used in coffee shops. It’s also one of the most affordable and readily available options. A well-known choice for those who are lactose intolerant, soy milk lets you enjoy delicious milky coffees with ease. With soy milk, you can achieve a creamy texture without altering the taste of your coffee. If you’re keen to experiment, feel free to try flavoured varieties, like chocolate or vanilla. What makes soy milk particularly appealing to baristas is the excellent stability of its thick foam. However, achieving the perfect froth might require adjusting your technique and a bit more effort on how to foam milk for optimal results.
Rice Milk
If you’re in search of an allergen-free plant milk, rice milk is the choice for you. While it’s less common than its counterparts, it’s increasingly being adopted as an alternative to soy milk! Naturally sweet, rice milk adds a touch of indulgence to your beverage. Even better, it can help balance the flavours in coffees that are particularly acidic or bitter. However, be aware that this plant milk is notoriously difficult to froth, almost to the point of impossibility. The lack of protein in rice milk hinders proper emulsion formation. Therefore, it’s best reserved for your lattes rather than trying to achieve how to make foaming milk with it.
Hazelnut Milk
Richer and more indulgent, hazelnut milk is a favourite for coffee lovers looking for a creamier drink. Its texture is quite similar to that of cow’s milk. However, the similarity ends when it comes to taste. The flavour of this plant milk is quite distinct, which can be seen as both a drawback and a unique benefit. Hazelnut milk is naturally sweet and fragrant. It allows you to create delightful hazelnut-flavoured caffeinated treats without the need to add sweet syrups or spreads. Frothing hazelnut milk can be challenging, as many commercial varieties lack sufficient protein. Don’t hesitate to try different brands if you’re determined to enjoy your hazelnut latte macchiato with how to foam milk for that perfect creamy top.
HOW TO PROPERLY FOAM YOUR MILK?
To successfully create your milk foam, we recommend keeping your milk in the refrigerator until the last moment to ensure it stays very fresh. Avoid using warm milk. Moreover, you should use the steam wand of your coffee machine to emulsify your milk. It’s quite simple: place your steam wand just at the surface of the milk in your pitcher. Then, using the wand, incorporate air into the milk to transform it into foam. Note that to make your foam with your coffee machine, there must be a sufficient volume of milk. Don’t hesitate to practice to master the right techniques for how to make foaming milk.
MAXICOFFEE TIPS FOR MORE INDULGENCE
To achieve beautiful foam, choose a plant-based drink that contains at least 3 grams of fat and 3 grams of protein per 100 ml. To avoid coagulation effects that can sometimes occur, keep an eye on the temperature! It’s better to aim for 60°C rather than the 65°C recommended for animal milk.
SO, WHICH MILK SHOULD YOU CHOOSE FOR YOUR CAPPUCCINO OR LATTE MACCHIATO?
Several factors need to be considered to successfully create milk foam for your cappuccino. The choice of milk is crucial. Whole milk is preferred for achieving the perfect foam for your cappuccino or latte macchiato. For a plant-based option, our barista recommends soy milk. It’s our top pick for preparing your cappuccino, as it delivers a creamy texture without altering the taste of your coffee.
Plant milks to avoid include rice and hazelnut milk, as both are difficult to foam. Almond milk can be used for cappuccinos, but it may not pair well with all coffees, so careful consideration is needed.
You now know which milk to choose to create your milky beverages and achieve your most beautiful latte art! Remember, the choice of the milk pitcher also plays a significant role in making a great milk foam.
Discover our other articles
-
Recipe -
HOW-TO Have you ever wondered how to become a Latte Art maestro? Today, we’re sharing some tips on the equipment you… -
HOW-TO Latte Art has become more and more popular in coffee shops and you’ve most likely already had a beautiful cappuccino…
