How to Make a Caffè Misto

How to Make a Caffè Misto: A Step-by-Step Guide

A Caffè Misto, also known as a café au lait, is a delicious coffee drink made by combining equal parts of brewed coffee and steamed milk. It’s smooth, creamy, and a perfect alternative to a latte if you want a milder coffee flavor. Here’s how to make the perfect Caffè Misto at home.

What You’ll Need to Make a Caffè Misto

1. Drip Coffee Maker or French Press for brewed coffee
2. Milk Frother or steam wand
3. Freshly Ground Coffee Beans
4. Milk (whole milk for creaminess, or milk alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk)
5. Coffee Mug

Step 1: Brew the Coffee

• Start by brewing 1 cup (240 ml) of coffee using a drip coffee maker or French press. For the best results, use freshly ground coffee beans and a medium-coarse grind.
• If you’re using a drip coffee maker, follow the standard ratio of 1 tablespoon of coffee for every 6 ounces of water. For a French press, use a ratio of 1:15 (coffee to water) for a balanced brew.

Step 2: Heat and Froth the Milk

• While the coffee is brewing, heat 1 cup (240 ml) of milk using a milk frother, steam wand, or by warming it on the stove. If using the stove, make sure to heat the milk without boiling it.
• If you want a creamy texture, froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk to create a light foam.

Step 3: Combine Coffee and Milk

• Once your coffee is ready, pour it into a mug. Add the heated milk to the brewed coffee in equal parts (1:1 ratio), leaving room for a little foam on top.
• Stir gently to combine the coffee and milk for a smooth texture.

Step 4: Customize Your Caffè Misto

• You can add sweeteners like sugar, honey, or flavored syrups (vanilla, caramel, etc.) to enhance the flavor.
• Top your drink with a light dusting of cocoa powder, cinnamon, or a drizzle of caramel for a more indulgent experience.

Tips for Making the Perfect Caffè Misto

• Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor. Opt for a medium roast coffee for a balanced taste that pairs well with milk.
• If you prefer a creamier drink, use whole milk or half-and-half. For a lighter option, try almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
• Experiment with different coffee-to-milk ratios if you prefer a stronger or lighter coffee flavor.

Caffè Misto vs. Latte: What’s the Difference?

• A Caffè Misto is made with brewed coffee and steamed milk in equal parts (1:1), while a latte is made with espresso and a higher proportion of steamed milk, typically in a 1:3 ratio. Lattes have a stronger espresso flavor, while Caffè Misto has a milder, smoother coffee taste.

Common Caffè Misto Mistakes and How to Fix Them

• Too Watery: If your Caffè Misto tastes too watery, try using a slightly stronger brew by increasing the amount of coffee grounds or opting for a darker roast.
• Too Strong: If the coffee flavor is too strong for your liking, add more steamed milk to balance the flavors.