If you're a barista, steamed milk texture is everything when it comes to delivering that perfect espresso drink.
But getting that beautiful silky foam or microfoam necessary for these drinks isn't just about pure luck — there are many techniques and tricks you can use to help ensure success every time!
In this blog post, we'll explore why steamed milk texture is crucial in espresso drinks and share some tips on achieving those sought-after foamy results.
Step 1
Step 2
After setting up your steam wand, the next step is to lower it into the pitcher and start foam-making. Start by placing the steam wand below the surface of your milk. Turn it on full but be careful not to incorporate too much air. When the tip hits the surface of the milk, it will begin to create foam.
But how long should it stay in there?
To make latte style milk, a quick second or two is enough, but for cappuccino, you'll need to hold it down for 2-5 seconds. This will create more foam to pour beautiful designs onto your finished cup.
Step 3
Now we've come to the exciting part of making your perfect latte: creating a whirlpool.
Use your steam wand to swirl the milk around in a circular motion at the bottom of your pitcher. This helps ensure that all those yummy air bubbles created during Step 2 are evenly dispersed throughout the entire pitcher so that there's a nice, smooth texture once everything's done.
It also pulls more heat into the mid-range, which means you get an even creamier and better-tasting drink.
Step 4
Steaming milk at the correct temperature is vital to perfecting a great cup of coffee! You want it to be just right, so make sure you're paying close attention when using the steam wand.
Generally, the ideal range looks like 55-65 °C - anything below that and your milk will be too lukewarm, while anything past 65 and your milk proteins start to denature, affecting its structure. Turn the steam wand off once the heat begins to burn your hand.
Step 5
When adding the steamed milk and foam to your finished espresso shot, you have to move quickly. If you wait too long, the microfoam and milk separate, giving you an undesirable layer of foam at the top.
To prevent this from happening, keep agitating the milk by moving the pitcher in circles to ensure everything stays blended together for optimal yumminess when it hits your cup!
Extra tip
Taking the extra step of wiping down your steam wand after each use may seem like a chore, but if you don't take this precaution, the milk can burn onto the wand and create a cruddy-looking brown layer. Not only is it an unpleasant sight, but it will take more than soap and water to get rid of it.
