Gourmet Coffee Frothing for Newbies

Ever wonder why some cappuccinos and lattes taste better than others? After all, they're made from the exact same ingredients.  Chances are the difference is in the froth, or foam. Why is that? A good froth has a smooth texture because itís created with the smallest of bubbles, referred to as microfoam.

These little bubbles are so small you have to look close to see them. But the large bubbles? That's what leaves the froth dry, flat and tasteless.

There's not much you can do about the froth if youíre purchasing from a coffee house. However, making your coffee froth at home is a different story. And, it requires very little effort.

To enjoy a great latte or cappuccino, you must start with the proper milk temperature, approximately 150-160 degrees Fahrenheit (65 -70 C). So it's important that you use a thermometer to get it right.

 For espresso machines, turn the steam off about 5 to 10 degrees before it reaches the desired temperature. Since the thermometer doesn't adjust instantly, it will continue to rise for a few seconds after turning off the steam.

Coffee Machines

If you're considering purchasing an espresso machine for your home, do your research.  Read user reviews on several models before you make your purchase. Most coffee machines will produce a decent coffee, and it can steam milk well enough. But a good espresso machine? It will create great froth with its built-in steam wand.

An excellent coffee machine will make a great coffee drink, there is more to it than just the mechanics of coffee-making. Rather than just sticking the steam wand into the milk, you want to keep the froth hole at the surface of the milk.

The steam wand has a small hole on one side. That's the froth hole. You want to keep the froth hole

on the surface of the milk. This allows the milk to be drawn in, which creates a denser, smoother froth.

Hold the pitcher at a slight angle to let steam wand rest on the side of the pitcher, allowing the milk to swirl and create froth.

Should you keep the froth at the top of the milk when steaming? Many baristas think so, but it really isn't true. During this step, you want the froth and milk to mingle.  As the milk expands into frothy goodness, gradually lower the level of your pitcher.

This keeps the froth hole at the proper level. Keep working the milk. The more you do, the more froth you create. Once your coffee is poured into your cup, that's when you want to see all that lovely froth sitting on the top.

So to recap how to make a great froth, here are the steps.

1. Start with cold milk and a cold pitcher

2. Only use as much milk as you need. Never try to re-steam milk

3. Use a thermometer to achieve the right temperature (150-160 degrees Fahrenheit)

4. Keep the froth hole on the surface of the milk

5. Work the milk until you get the amount of froth you are seeking. For lattes, the milk expands by one-third. For cappuccinos, it expands by half.

6. Pour the desired amount of milk into your cup then spoon on the froth

Here are a few more tips to help get a great coffee froth. 

Start with cold milk. You can froth just about any type of milk, including soy, rice and almond. Non-fat milk foams the best whereas whole milk is much harder to coax good foam.  However, there's nothing quite like a cappuccino or latte made with whole milk.

When you turn off the steam wand and before you pour, tap the side of the pitcher several times. Give it a couple of quick spins. Then let it rest for just a moment. This helps pop larger bubbles, creating a smoother texture.

If you don't own an espresso machine you can froth by hand. Warm the milk on the stove to the desired temperature. Or, you can use a microwave but it destroys all the vitamins. Pour the warmed milk into a coffee cup. Insert a small hand whisk into the cup and whisk until you get the desired amount of froth. You can also purchase stand-alone frothing machines, and even battery operated whiskers, if you prefer.

Getting the proper froth will take practice so don't get discouraged. Have fun with it as you learn a new coffee skill! In the meantime, if you're running late, just stop by The Coffee Cave, we're happy to make it for you.