Description
Cappuccino is a classic Italian coffee drink known for its balanced combination of strong espresso, steamed milk, and rich milk foam. Traditionally served in a small cup, a cappuccino offers a creamy texture with a slightly bold espresso flavor, topped with a thick layer of frothy milk. It’s a popular choice for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee, often enjoyed with a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Ingredients:
- Espresso:
- 1 shot (about 1 oz of strong, freshly brewed espresso)
- Milk:
- 4 oz (whole milk is ideal for a creamy texture, but you can use any milk of choice)
- Foam:
- The milk is steamed to create a thick, frothy foam
Optional Additions:
- Sugar:
- To sweeten (if desired)
- Cocoa Powder or Cinnamon:
- For dusting on top
Preparation:
- Brew the Espresso:
- Use an espresso machine to extract a fresh shot of espresso and pour it into a small cup.
- Steam the Milk:
- Using a steam wand or frother, steam the milk until it’s hot and forms a layer of thick foam. Aim for a smooth texture with fine bubbles.
- Pour and Layer:
- Pour the steamed milk into the espresso while holding back the foam with a spoon. Once the milk is in, spoon the frothy foam on top to create the signature cappuccino layer.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Dust the top with cocoa powder or cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal.
Proportions:
- Cappuccino is generally made with a 1:1:1 ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.
Variations:
- Wet Cappuccino:
- A creamier version with more steamed milk and less foam.
- Dry Cappuccino:
- More foam and less steamed milk for a lighter drink.
- Iced Cappuccino:
- A cold version made with chilled espresso and cold foam.