Coffee with milk - latte macchiato, cappuccino or simply a milk coffee?

Kaffee mit Milch Cappuccino Latte Macchiato Simon and Bearns Kaffeerösterei

We all love them: cafés! And of course, coffee! And coffee with milk! And drinking coffee! But what sounds so simple isn't so easy in reality these days. There's an incredible selection of coffee drinks made with milk. And we haven't even talked about the milk variations yet. To help you navigate this jungle of countless options, we're presenting a variety of coffee drinks this week. Let us know what your favorites are – whether they're already familiar or perhaps a delicious creation of your own?

Black coffee with milk

Perhaps the simplest option: black coffee with milk. It's a popular choice at home, requires no special equipment, and is a favorite among the older generation. Connoisseurs know that specialty black coffee is drunk without milk to preserve its unique aromas and nuances. If you'd like to learn more, read our blog post about 7 facts about black coffee .

Coffee with milk or café au lait

A variation of black coffee with milk is the latte. This is not made with espresso, but with a 50:50 ratio of black coffee to warm, lightly frothed milk. So it's not just a sip, but a generous amount of milk in a latte.

Latte Macchiato

The latte macchiato. Always popular and always delicious. It's recognizable by the clear separation of its layers. It consists of approximately 1/3 milk foam, 1/3 espresso, and 1/3 milk. First, the milk is frothed until quite firm and then poured into a tall glass. The more liquid milk settles at the bottom. Meanwhile, depending on preference, one or two espresso shots are prepared and then carefully poured through the firm foam. Et voilà: The perfect latte macchiato. While no special barista skills are required, it's definitely a showstopper.

Cortado

Never heard of it? The cortado is becoming increasingly popular and looks like a mini latte macchiato. It's made by first pouring an espresso into a small glass and then topping it with an equal amount of hot milk. Professionals can even create a design in the foam. It's often served with sugar and makes a quick and easy treat.

Cappuccino, milk drink, coffee with milk, Coffee Roasters Heidelberg

cappuccino

No coffee has undergone such a transformation as the cappuccino. Previously, almost only the Italian preparation method could be found in cafés. Even then, the milk was frothed quite firmly, poured over an espresso shot, and the firm foam was sprinkled with cocoa powder.

Today, the cappuccino is the epitome of barista artistry. True professionals can conjure up beautiful designs in the cup, and thus in the hearts of their customers, using perfectly heated milk foam. Beginners usually start with a heart, which is also wonderful. A simple cappuccino contains an espresso shot, which is then topped with very creamy frothed milk.

If you'd like to learn how to bring this small gesture of affection to your cups at home, feel free to attend one of our barista courses . There you'll learn everything from the correct way to froth milk, the perfect pouring technique, and all the necessary equipment. 

Flat White

The flat white has become an indispensable part of the coffee scene and many specialty coffee cafes. Originally from Australia, this coffee variation is often confused with a cappuccino, but there are a few differences: it consists of two espresso shots topped with finely textured milk (microfoam). Unlike a cappuccino, the milk foam reaches the rim of the cup. Hence the name: flat white. The flat white is particularly well-suited for latte art, and you get even more caffeine.

Cold Brew

Especially in summer, we love cold coffee. But we don't find simply letting black coffee get cold very appealing. That's why we offer Cold Brew! Here, coffee grounds are mixed with cold water and left to steep for an extended period – at least 12 hours. After the coffee has steeped thoroughly, it can be filtered, separating it from the coffee grounds and resulting in a very clear brew. This process brings out particularly fruity notes in the coffee, with significantly less acidity and bitterness. Cold Brew can be stored in a cool place for up to two weeks and can be enjoyed straight or with milk.

Iced Coffee

No, we're not talking about cold black coffee with milk and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Here, milk is shaken until frothy with ice cubes, poured into a glass filled with ice cubes, and a fresh, hot espresso shot is added. A wonderfully refreshing drink, especially for summer, and it's unsweetened. The coffee flavor isn't overly altered either.

Coffee Trends

You always hear about THE next big coffee drink. During the Corona pandemic, it was Dalgona coffee from South Korea. A mix of instant coffee, sugar, and hot water, which was frothed and served over cold milk. Then it was Proffee: protein coffee. Never heard of it? No worries, you don't have to follow every trend. But we do have one trend you absolutely have to try!

Espresso with milk, coffee with milk, Simon&Bearns coffee roastery in Heidelberg

Tonic & Coffee

Tonic and coffee? It might sound strange at first, but it's been an indispensable part of the specialty coffee scene for years! Tonic water is poured into a glass with ice cubes, then a hot espresso is poured over it. The different densities of the tonic and espresso cause the espresso to swirl into the tonic water, creating an incredibly refreshing and fruity crema on top! It's a truly chic and delicious drink, and its spectacular appearance makes it a great alternative to a cocktail. A small shot of gin can also be added.

As you can see, there are so many ways to enjoy your coffee. Did we mention your favorite coffee, or did we forget one? Let us know! Next week, we'll tell you about the different milk alternatives and whether they're worth trying!

Your SIMON&BEARNS Team

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