What is a Latte? Perfect Recipe to Make A Great Latte at Home

by Mama Loves A Drink

What is a latte? Learn all you need to know about this popular coffee drink and find the perfect latte recipe to make this delicious beverage at home.

Latte is one of the most popular espresso coffee drinks, if not the most popular milky coffee drink in the world.

It first gained popularity in Seattle in the mid-Nineties and, since then, it has become a worldwide sensation.

You can get a latte at your favourite coffee roaster, or you can make it at home following our latte recipe and tips for the perfect cuppa.

Before we dive right in with this one, make sure you’ll also read our guide to the best latte machines to use at home. We talk about the difference a specialised machine makes to a normal espresso coffee maker and all our favourite brands!

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Close up of milk pouring from a jug into a latte cup

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What is a latte?

A latte is a popular coffee drink made with espresso and milk.

The word ‘latte’ is Italian for milk and is short for ‘caffe’ latte’ (lit. coffee-milk).

A latte has a single or double shot of espresso and several ounces of steamed milk, gently poured into a large cup and topped with a layer of foam to make a smooth, soothing beverage.

How to make latte at home: must-have gear

To key to a delicious home-made latte is in the ingredients and the care in the milk-steaming process.

If you want to full control over the flavour and strength, we recommend you start from coffee beans you’ve ground yourself.

If you don’t have a coffee grinder, however, there is no need to panic: you can easily make your latte from ground coffee and use whatever espresso machine you have at home and like the most; this can be an electric coffee maker or stove top coffee maker such as a