What Is a Latte? The Classic Italian Milk Coffee Recipe

If you’ve ever ordered a latte and wondered why it looks different every time, you’re not alone. Many coffee drinkers assume a latte is just espresso with milk—but there’s a specific formula behind the classic Italian version that sets it apart. So what exactly goes into making a proper latte, and why does the milk matter so much?

A traditional latte consists of one shot of espresso poured into 150cc of hot steamed milk, then topped with a thin layer of milk foam. It’s typically served in a 160ml (about 5.4 fl oz) transparent glass cup. That’s the standard formula.

What Is a Latte, Really?

In Italy, 'caffè latte' simply means 'coffee with milk.' But outside Italy, especially in specialty coffee circles, a latte refers to a specific drink: a single or double shot of espresso combined with steamed milk and finished with a small amount of microfoam. It’s not a cappuccino (which has more foam and less milk), nor is it a flat white (which has less milk and a velvety microfoam texture). The latte is smooth, milky, and often enjoyed for its balance of espresso and creamy texture.

The Classic Latte Formula

Here’s the essential breakdown of a traditional latte:

• Espresso: 1 shot (standard single or double)
• Milk: 150cc (about 5.1 fl oz) of steamed milk
• Foam: A thin layer of milk foam (not thick like a cappuccino)
• Served in: A 160ml (around 5.4 fl oz) transparent glass cup
• Sugar: Optional, added to taste

This ratio creates a drink where the espresso and milk are balanced, and the foam sits lightly on top. The glass cup isn’t just for show—it lets you see the layers: dark espresso at the bottom, creamy steamed milk in the middle, and a light tan foam on top.

How to Make a Latte the Traditional Way

To prepare a classic latte, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Milk: Heat approximately 3/4 of your 160ml glass cup’s volume in milk—this is around 150cc. Unlike frothing milk for a cappuccino, steaming for a latte focuses on heating the milk while incorporating some air, creating a smooth, velvety texture with slight microfoam. The goal is to reach a temperature suitable for serving, usually around 60–65°C, though exact temps vary by preference.
2. Pull the Espresso: While the milk is heating, place your cup under the espresso machine’s spout and pull a single or double shot of espresso. This shot forms the base flavor of your latte. Most traditional lattes use a single shot, but a double can be used depending on taste or caffeine preference.
3. Combine: Pour the steamed milk into the cup with the espresso. Start pouring from a slightly higher position to allow the milk to integrate smoothly, then sink the pitcher lower to create a clean, even drink with a gradient effect. Finish by spooning a small amount of the microfoam on top to form a light cap.
4. Serve: Your latte is ready to drink. Add sugar if desired, though purists often enjoy it without.

Note: While the instructions mention using a 160ml glass cup, the actual milk volume used is 150cc, leaving room for the espresso and foam.

Why These Ratios Matter

The specific amounts aren’t arbitrary. The 150cc of milk ensures the latte remains a milk-forward drink without overwhelming the espresso. Using too much milk dilutes the flavor; too little leaves it tasting weak or unbalanced. The espresso provides the core taste, while the steamed milk smooths and rounds it out. The foam, while minimal, adds texture and visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?

A latte has more steamed milk and less foam than a cappuccino. A traditional cappuccino is roughly 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foam, while a latte is mostly steamed milk with just a small amount of foam on top. Lattes are creamier and milkier in texture and flavor.

Do you need a special coffee bean for a latte?

No special bean is required, but a well-balanced espresso roast works best. For a classic Italian-style latte, a blend designed for espresso with good crema and smooth flavor is ideal—something that won’t overpower the milk.

Can you make a latte with any type of milk?

Yes, you can use any milk—dairy or plant-based. However, the steaming process works best with whole dairy milk for its natural fats and proteins, which create the best microfoam. Plant-based milks may require adjustments in steaming technique.

Is a latte stronger than regular coffee?

A latte is not stronger than black coffee. It contains one shot (or sometimes two) of espresso diluted with 150cc of milk, so the caffeine is lower per volume compared to a straight espresso or black coffee. The milk also softens the intensity of the espresso flavor.

What size cup is a latte served in?

A traditional latte is served in a 160ml (about 5.4 fl oz) transparent glass cup. This allows you to see the layers of espresso, steamed milk, and foam. Some cafés may use slightly larger cups, but the milk volume in the classic recipe is 150cc.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Lattes

For a classic latte, FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend is an excellent choice—it’s designed specifically for espresso and milk drinks, producing rich crema and a smooth, approachable profile. Its traditional blend of Brazilian and other base beans offers a well-rounded foundation that complements milk without overpowering it. Alternatively, the Specialty Blend uses Brazilian and Colombian beans for a familiar Italian-style taste, ideal for traditional milk-based espresso drinks. Both blends are optimized for crema and balance, making them great for lattes. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.