Cappuccino

Cappuccino

10 min
Enjoy the classic charm of a traditional cappuccino with this easy recipe. A coffeehouse staple, our version creates the perfect blend of strong espresso, warm milk and a smooth foam. Savour alone or share with friends, any time of the day, for a cosy burst of flavour.
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Instructions

  • Slowly heat the milk in a saucepan until it reaches a smoking point (approximately 65 °C) and whisk to a soft foam.
  • Pour the espresso into a cup and pour on the milk.
  • Spoon the foam on top.
  • It should be equal parts warm- and foamed milk.
Enjoy!

Cappuccino FAQs

If you want to know more about coffee, keep reading below to find our more about the frequently asked questions about cappuccino.

What is the ideal coffee to milk ratio in a cappuccino?
The perfect cappuccino should have equal parts espresso, milk and foam. In this recipe, aim to whisk at least half of the milk volume into a silky froth. Spooned over the rest of the ingredients, ever sip will be a luxurious balance of rich coffee, creamy milk and smooth foam.
Can I add my own twist with different flavours?
Absolutely, our recipe is flexible, so feel free to get creative. Flavours like cinnamon or cocoa powder pair especially well with the rich smoothness of a cappuccino. To help the flavour blend evenly throughout your drink, mix it into the coffee before you combine it with the milk.
Can I make this recipe without espresso?
Definitely! Simply replace the espresso with any strongly brewed coffee and follow the rest of the steps for a frothy and enjoyable drink right at home.
What sets a cappuccino apart from a latte?
A cappuccino is equal parts espresso, milk and foam, while a latte has more milk and a light touch of foam, giving it a much milder taste. Cappuccinos are also traditionally served in smaller cups to highlight the espresso's boldness, balanced by milk and foam. Lattes, on the other hand, are typically served in larger glasses, focusing on the milk's creaminess. So, while both drinks start with the same ingredients, the milk's texture and ratios create very different tastes. Compare your cappuccino experience with our café latte recipe.

Ingredients

Strong coffee
50 ml
Milk
100 ml
Other recipes
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Tips

Explore these tips to refine your technique, deepen the flavour and serve your cappuccino with true barista flair.

Serve it the Italian way

For an authentic Italian cappuccino, enjoy this rich beverage in the morning. Add a light dusting of cocoa powder or cinnamon on the foam and serve it in a small cup with a handle to keep your coffee warm longer. This allows for a leisurely drink and honours the traditional way of slowly savouring every sip.

Preserving the freshness of coffee

Fresh coffee is essential for a good cappuccino. Keep your coffee beans in an airtight container away from light and heat to maintain their natural oils and flavour. For the best taste, grind the beans right before brewing. If you're using pre-ground coffee, make sure it's sealed and used within a week. These simple steps will ensure every cup of cappuccino is as fresh and flavourful as possible.

Master the art of milk frothing

Frothy milk is a key part of a luxurious cappuccino. Full-fat milk will create a thicker foam due to its fat content, while low-fat milk or plant-based drinks are good variations if you prefer a lighter, airier froth. Start by heating your milk until it’s just about to boil (approximately 65 °C) then whisk vigorously to form a rich foam. Keep the milk moving in the saucepan to heat evenly and prevent scorching. When the milk has doubled in volume, it's ready to pour over your espresso. This manual technique gives you control over the froth texture and adds a professional touch to your cappuccino.

Enhance the flavour with these pairings

While a cappuccino is perfect on its own, it really comes into its own when paired with the right foods. Try dark chocolate to bring out the coffee's bitterness or a buttery croissant to accentuate its smoothness. Experimenting with these pairings will turn every cappuccino into an indulgent experience, transforming a simple coffee break into a culinary delight.

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