How to Make Milk Foam for Lattes
Learn how to make milk foam at home. This article details two simple ways to make milk foam without expensive equipment.
HOW-TO GUIDES
Milk foam is an excellent way to improve upon your favorite homemade lattes. While cafe milk foam is usually made with a milk steamer, these devices can be pricey. Milk frothers are a cheaper, simpler option. However, neither of these machines are common in the average household. This article will teach you two different ways to make milk froth from things you likely already have.
Before we get into the different methods, there are a few things to keep in mind when making milk foam. Firstly, it is best to use fresh milk. Older milk may not froth as well. Secondly, milks with a higher fat content froth better. It is, however, still possible to make milk froth with low-fat milk. Due to the low fat levels, using dairy substitutes may prove even more challenging.
Method 1: French Press - my preferred method
Scald the milk. You can do this by heating up the milk on the stove until bubbles form around the edge of the pan. Remove from heat.
Note: for this method, make sure you use enough milk to cover the press' plunger when it is pushed down.
Carefully pour the scalded milk into the french press. Replace the lid, and press down the plunger. Lift the plunger back up, and repeat about 15-20 times. It is best if you do this rapidly.
Take off the lid, and pour the milk froth into your drink. Depending on the consistency of your milk froth, you may need to use a spoon.
Method 2: Whisking (note: this method doesn't get the milk as frothy)
Scald the milk. You can do this by heating up the milk on the stove until bubbles form around the edge of the pan. Remove from heat.
Carefully pour the scalded milk into a heat-safe bowl. Whisk the milk vigorously until bubbles form.
Pour a desired amount of milk foam into your drink.