Making a latte isn’t as complicated as it seems. It’s all about combining a perfectly pulled shot of espresso with silky, velvety milk. Using a semi-automatic espresso machine not only gives you control over every step but also allows you to enjoy the process—especially when you start experimenting with latte art. Here’s a quick version for when you’re short on time, followed by detailed steps for those who want to go all in.

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Quick Version: Latte in 5 Simple Steps

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1. Prepare: Grind 18–20g of coffee beans and fill your milk pitcher halfway with milk.

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2. Extract Espresso: Tamp the coffee grounds evenly, lock in the portafilter, and extract 30ml of espresso.

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3. Steam Milk: Use the steam wand to froth the milk to 60–65°C, creating a smooth, silky texture.

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4. Combine: Pour the milk into the espresso, starting with the liquid and finishing with the foam.

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5. Finish: Swirl your milk pitcher and pour to create a simple latte art design, like a heart or leaf.

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That’s it! If you want to dive into more detail, let’s go step by step.

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Detailed Version: How to Make the Perfect Latte

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1. Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

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Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:

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‧ Coffee beans: 18–20g of medium to dark roast beans work well for lattes.

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‧ Milk: Use whole milk for better foam texture, or try oat milk designed for barista use.

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‧ Tools: Semi-automatic espresso machine, tamper, milk pitcher, coffee scale, and a cup.

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‧ Temperature goals: Brew water should be 90–96°C (195–205°F), and milk should be steamed to 60–65°C (140–150°F).

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2. Preheat Your Machine and Tools

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‧ Turn on your espresso machine and let it preheat for at least 10 minutes.

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‧ Preheat your portafilter and cup by running hot water through them to ensure stable brewing temperature.

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3. Pulling the Perfect Espresso Shot

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1. Grind Your Coffee

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‧ Grind your beans to a fine consistency, similar to granulated sugar.

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‧ Measure 18–20g of grounds using a coffee scale for precision.

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2. Tamp the Coffee Grounds

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‧ Distribute the coffee grounds evenly in the portafilter.

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‧ Use a tamper to apply firm, even pressure, ensuring the surface is flat.

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3. Extract the Espresso

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‧ Lock the portafilter into the machine and start brewing.

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‧ Aim for a 25–30 second extraction that yields about 30ml of espresso.

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‧ If it’s too fast or too slow, adjust the grind size or tamping pressure accordingly.

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4. Steaming the Milk

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1. Prepare the Milk

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‧ Pour milk into your pitcher, filling it about halfway to allow room for frothing.

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2. Purge the Steam Wand

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‧ Turn on the steam wand briefly to purge any condensation and ensure strong, steady steam.

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3. Froth the Milk

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‧ Position the steam wand just below the surface of the milk to introduce air, creating a soft “hissing” sound.

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‧ Once you’ve added enough air, submerge the wand slightly deeper to create a whirlpool effect, breaking down large bubbles and integrating the foam.

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‧ Stop steaming when the milk reaches 60–65°C (140–150°F). The pitcher should feel hot to the touch but not burn your hand.

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5. Combining Espresso and Milk

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1. Tap and Swirl the Milk

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‧ Gently tap the milk pitcher on the counter to pop any remaining bubbles, then swirl to mix the foam with the liquid milk.

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2. Pour the Milk

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‧ Start pouring from a higher position to mix the liquid milk with the espresso.

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‧ As the cup fills, lower the pitcher and tilt it slightly to let the foam flow, creating a creamy surface.

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‧ For latte art, practice simple designs like a heart or a leaf by controlling the pour speed and direction

Tips and Troubleshooting

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‧ Espresso too bitter or weak? Adjust the grind size or tamping pressure.

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‧ Milk foam too thick or thin? Adjust how much air you introduce and ensure the milk is spinning smoothly.

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‧ Temperature issues? Use your hand to feel the milk pitcher; it should be hot but not scalding.

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Why Make Your Own Latte?

Making a latte at home is more than just brewing coffee; it’s a creative and satisfying experience. From pulling the perfect shot of espresso to mastering silky milk foam (and maybe even a bit of latte art), every step lets you refine your skills and enjoy the results. Try these steps, adjust to your liking, and soon you’ll be your own favorite barista!

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