
How Cappuccino is Made
A cappuccino is a classic and beloved coffee drink, known for its perfect balance of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. It is traditionally made with:
1 shot of espresso as the base.
Equal parts steamed milk and milk foam (each about 1/3 of the total drink volume).
The milk foam layer on top provides a creamy and airy texture that blends beautifully with the strong, rich espresso beneath. The ideal cappuccino is a harmonious combination of coffee's intensity and the sweetness of steamed milk, all topped with a thick, velvety foam.
Variations of Cappuccino
Cappuccino lovers can experiment with various exciting variations to suit their preferences:
Dry Cappuccino: This version uses less steamed milk and more foam, making the drink lighter and airier, with a stronger espresso flavor.
Wet Cappuccino: The opposite of a dry cappuccino, this one includes more steamed milk and less foam for a creamier and smoother texture.
Flavored Cappuccino: Add flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to your cappuccino for a personalized twist.
How to Enjoy Cappuccino More
Here are some tips to enhance your cappuccino experience and customize it to your taste:
Perfect Foam Consistency: A good cappuccino is all about the foam. Ensure the milk is foamed to a velvety microfoam consistency, which gives the drink its signature smooth and frothy top layer.
Espresso Quality: Since cappuccino contains a small amount of espresso compared to milk, the flavor of the espresso is vital. Use high-quality beans and grind them fresh for the best taste.
Spice It Up: For a little extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even nutmeg on top of your cappuccino foam. These spices can add warmth and complexity to the flavor.
Adjust Milk Preferences: If you're looking to cut down on dairy or simply prefer plant-based alternatives, try a cappuccino with oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk. Just be mindful that different types of milk will foam differently, so choose one that creates a good froth.
Cappuccino Recipes from Barista Champions
Here are a couple of unique cappuccino recipes from world-class baristas:
Coconut Cappuccino by Agnes Lidbeck (World Latte Art Champion 2017)
Ingredients:
1 shot of espresso
100 ml steamed coconut milk
Shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions: Steam the coconut milk until it's frothy, then pour it over your shot of espresso. Top with a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a tropical twist on the classic cappuccino.
Honey Lavender Cappuccino by Ben Put (Canadian Barista Champion)
Ingredients:
1 shot of espresso
100 ml steamed whole milk
1 tsp honey
1/2 tsp dried lavender
Instructions: Infuse the milk with lavender by steeping it in warm milk for a few minutes, then steam the milk. Add honey to the espresso, pour the infused milk, and finish with a thin layer of foam. The honey adds a gentle sweetness, while the lavender brings a subtle floral note.
Whether you like your cappuccino classic or with a twist, it’s a versatile drink that can be customized to suit any taste. Perfect for slow mornings or quick breaks, cappuccinos never fail to impress!
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