Espresso, Caffe Latte, Cappuccino

Noelle Sage

History of Espresso

Invented in the beginning of the 20th century by Luigi Bezzera.

He realized how to make coffee using steam pressure.

This method allowed for a quicker way to make coffee.

What is Espresso?

Espresso is a coffee that is blended from several roasts and brewed by forcing a small amount of hot water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans.

Due to the pressurized brewing process, the flavors in espresso are very concentrated, giving it a bold flavor.

Espresso can be used as the base of drinks, or served purely.

Espresso continued

Most Europeans prefer to drink espresso pure.

Since the caffeine per unit volume is more than most coffee beverages, it is served in a much smaller cup; a “demitasse-style” cup.

There are four different serving types to enjoy espresso: Ristretto, Single, Lungo, or Double

Caffe Latte

A Caffe Latte is made from espresso and steamed milk.

It consists of about one third espresso, two thirds heated milk, and about one centimeter of foam.

In Italian, latte means milk. So a caffe latte would mean coffee and milk. If you just order a “latte” in Italy, you will receive a glass of hot water or cold milk.

Caffe Latte and Cappuccino

A Caffe latte is similar to a cappuccino, except a cappuccino has a larger layer of milk foam at the top.

Both caffe latte and cappuccinos originated in Italy.

Latte art has become increasingly popular. It’s created by pouring steamed milk into a shot of espresso and resulting in a pattern on the surface. Baristas draw on the top layer of foam.

Recipes

Caffe Latte

Pour two shots of espresso in a cup. Next add about three times as much steamed milk.

As you pour the steamed milk into the cup use a spoon to hold back the foam ntil the cup is more than ¾-full. Now top it off with some foam.

Espresso

Need: 1/2 cup ground coffee, 1-1/2 cups cold water, Lemon twists (optional)

Place ground coffee in the filter of coffee maker. Add water. Serve immediately in demitasse style cups.