Monday, October 12, 2009

Like It A Latte?

With the onset of chillier weather I would like to bring up something that even most baristas do not always understand correctly: the difference between a latte and a cappuccino. Usually if ordered from a Starbucks or any other local coffee stand, they will usually taste the same and you, like me, find yourself wondering if you got what you actually ordered.  Most of the time, no,  I didn't get what I ordered.  In their true form Cappuccinos and Lattes are not the same thing, they are distinctly different and should be treated as such.  My favorite cold weather pick-me-up- beverages:

Espresso drinks can be confusing here is the breakdown:


Regular Espresso:  

This is what you will get if you order "un Cafe" in Paris.  If you are in the US this is a shot of expresso.  Its very strong and should be quite delicious.  Just enough for a shot of warmth on a cool day.

Latte:




A latte is basically a double shot of steamed espresso topped with STEAMED (not frothed) milk.  This latte I have pictured above is one of the pretty ones.  The French call it Cafe au Lait, the German call it Milchkaffee.  


Cappuccino:



A Cappuccino is a scientific phenomena created to be perfected by only a choice few.  You must know your study of thirds to get a cappuccino just so.  This is where the frothy milk comes in.  If you get frothy milk on any other drink besides a capp, you should demand a re-make!  One third espresso, one third steamed milk, one third foamed milk on top.  Pictured here is a pretty one.  I like the pretty ones, it makes it more fun to drink for some reason.  In essence the cappuccino should be stronger tasting than a latte, but all thirds should also remain equal.  Since I'm American but I love the stronger European style coffee, I always ask for extra shots in my cappuccinos so that they almost come out as I believe they should.  I need to just move to a different country, perhaps that would be easier (and WAY more fun!)

I Add a dash of cinnamon to almost any warm drink- especially in the autumn through winter.  I think it helps give an extra kick of flavor that I crave this time of year and through the holidays.

Although almond milk is my alternative milk of choice, most coffee places do not offer it.  Soy is my second choice.  If soy is not offered, I stay away from the drinks with milk.

I find hot chocolate and apple cider to have too much sugar for me.  I drink them on occasion but the sweetness of them usually doesn't do much to balance my blood sugar levels and will send me straight to nap mode.  I stay away from the sugar whenever possible.

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