Cafe Latte
All Foods • Global
How to Make Cafe Latte (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cafe Latte is a beloved global beverage that has found a special place in urban Indian households and trendy cafes alike. Originally Italian, the term 'latte' means milk, and a classic cafe latte is a harmonious blend of robust espresso and steamed milk, resulting in a smooth, comforting drink. In India, coffee culture is thriving, especially in southern regions like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where filter coffee reigns supreme. However, the cafe latte has become a popular alternative for those seeking a milder, creamy coffee experience. Perfect for a snack or a mid-day break, this vegetarian cafe latte recipe is crafted to be health-conscious, using skimmed milk and natural sweeteners, making it a delightful choice for calorie trackers and coffee lovers. Its taste is rich and mellow, with subtle hints of coffee balanced by velvety milk—a satisfying treat without excessive calories. Whether enjoyed alone or with a light snack, the cafe latte is an excellent way to savor global flavors with an Indian twist.
Ingredients(for 1 large mug (about 200ml))
- 2 shots (60ml) Espresso or strong filter coffee (Use South Indian filter coffee for a regional twist)
- 300ml Skimmed milk (Can use low-fat or regular milk)
- 2 tsp Organic honey (Natural sweetener) - optional
- 1/4 tsp Cinnamon powder (For flavor and garnish) - optional
- 1/4 tsp Vanilla extract (Optional for enhanced flavor) - optional
- 1/2 tsp Cocoa powder (Optional garnish) - optional
- Pinch Cardamom powder (Optional Indian touch) - optional
- As needed Ice cubes (For iced latte variation) - optional
- 1 tsp Sugar (Optional, can be replaced with stevia) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Brew 2 shots of espresso using an espresso machine or prepare strong South Indian filter coffee. If using filter coffee, ensure it is concentrated.
5 minutes
Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best aroma.
- 2
Heat the skimmed milk in a saucepan over medium flame until it steams, but do not boil. Froth the milk using a whisk, French press, or milk frother for a creamy texture.
3 minutes
For extra froth, shake hot milk in a closed jar for 30 seconds.
- 3
Pour the brewed coffee into large mugs. Add organic honey or sugar as per taste and stir well to dissolve.
1 minute
Adjust sweetness to your preference or skip for a low-calorie version.
- 4
Slowly pour the frothed hot milk over the coffee, holding back the foam with a spoon, then spoon the foam on top for a classic latte finish.
1 minute
Pour milk gently to create layered effect.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This cafe latte is a healthy choice because it uses skimmed milk, minimizing saturated fat and calories while maximizing protein and calcium intake. Natural sweeteners further reduce empty calories. The absence of artificial flavors or heavy cream makes it lighter and more digestible. It’s vegetarian and adaptable for vegan diets, ensuring inclusivity for various health needs and goals. Ideal for a mid-day snack, it can be part of a balanced diet without guilt.
Cafe latte made with skimmed milk is a source of high-quality protein, calcium, and vitamin D, beneficial for bone health. The espresso provides a natural energy boost and antioxidants. Using honey or stevia instead of refined sugar lowers the glycemic impact. Cinnamon and cardamom add anti-inflammatory properties and enhance digestion. The overall macros depend on milk type and sweetener, but this recipe is generally low in fat and moderate in carbohydrates, making it suitable for weight management.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always use fresh milk for the best froth and flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Froth milk until soft peaks form for a cafe-style texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Infuse Indian spices for a regional twist—try cardamom or nutmeg.
- 💡Tip 4: Adjust coffee-to-milk ratio to suit personal taste.
- 💡Tip 5: For vegan latte, use oat, almond, or soy milk and check for allergens.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; reheat and re-froth before serving. Iced latte can be kept chilled for up to 2 days.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 120.0 kcal |
| Protein | 3.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5.0 g |
| Total Fat | 3.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 5.0 g |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
| Calcium | 120.0 mg |
| Sodium | 45.0 mg |
| Potassium | 160.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 10.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 50.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 12.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
| Phosphorus | 95.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.4 µg |
| Folate | 5.0 µg |
