Latte

Latte: Creamy Comfort in a Cup

Small Description

A smooth blend of bold espresso and velvety steamed milk, topped with a touch of foam for a creamy, comforting classic.

The Recipe: Espresso Meets Milk

The latte, short for “caffè latte” in Italian, is a luxurious balance of espresso and steamed milk, typically topped with a thin layer of foam. A standard latte starts with one shot of espresso, followed by 8–10 ounces of steamed milk, creating a rich and creamy texture. It’s the perfect canvas for customization, whether with flavored syrups, milk alternatives, or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Baristas around the world often take lattes to the next level with intricate latte art, swirling steamed milk into hearts, rosettas, and other creative designs.

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Why the Latte Matters

The latte is beloved for its versatility and comfort, offering the perfect blend of bold espresso and creamy milk. Whether you’re starting your day or seeking a mid-afternoon treat, it’s a drink that caters to all moods and preferences. Its mild flavor makes it an approachable choice for new coffee drinkers while still providing the richness that seasoned coffee lovers enjoy.

At Tanooki Beans, our lattes are a celebration of craft and creativity. Made with perfectly pulled espresso shots and silky steamed milk, they’re designed to bring a moment of joy to your daily coffee ritual. Whether you choose a classic latte or customize it with your favorite flavors, every sip is crafted with care.

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The History: Italian Roots, Global Love

The latte has its origins in Italy, where “caffè latte” translates to “milk coffee.” Traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast drink, it became a global phenomenon when American coffee shops began popularizing it in the 1980s. Its mild flavor and creamy texture made it a hit with those who found espresso too intense.

While Italy takes credit for the latte’s inception, its global adaptations have given it new life. From matcha lattes in Japan to turmeric lattes in wellness cafés, the latte has evolved far beyond its original form.

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Fun Facts: More Than Just a Drink

1. The Canvas for Latte Art: The latte is the go-to drink for baristas perfecting their latte art skills. The smooth milk surface is ideal for creating designs like hearts, tulips, or even intricate swans.
2. Big Cup Energy: Lattes are typically served in larger cups (12–16 ounces), giving them more milk than other espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos or flat whites.
3. Customizable Galore: The latte is one of the most versatile drinks on the menu. Add syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, or swap in oat, almond, or coconut milk for endless variations.
4. International Twists: In Scandinavia, the term “latte” often refers to a stronger coffee-to-milk ratio, while in Australia, it might be served as a “skinny latte” with low-fat milk.

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