When selecting the best coffee beans for cappuccinos and lattes, it's essential to choose beans that are medium-bodied and have a balanced flavour profile. Some of the our most popular coffee beans for cappuccinos and lattes include:
1. Peru Tapir Andino Red Honey - Dark Roast Coffee
This Peruvian coffee offers a perfect balance of sweet and fruity flavours."I loved the aroma and rich taste of this coffee." Sandra K.
2. Santos & Old Brown Java Coffee Blend
"Amazing taste! One of the best blends I've tried." Monica B.
3. Guatemala Antigua Los Volcanes - Dark Roast Coffee Beans
Guatemala Antigua coffee boasts an exquisite aroma, a velvety smooth body and a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity with pleasing chocolate & nutty aftertaste.
"We have this coffee on subscription and love it so much!" Rebekah P.
4. Caffe Italiano Coffee Blend
Caffé Italiano is a robust coffee blend made with four distinct and quality coffees from around the world - Colombia Huila, Brazil Santos, Indonesian Old Brown Java, and Naturally Processed Ethiopia Sidamo.
"I've tested over 10 blends over this month and this one is winner for sure. " Oleksandr
5. Colombia Finca Sofia Dark Roast Coffee
Buttery mouthfeel, sweet acidity with notes of banoffee with a smooth and clean finish.
"The aroma wafting from the cup was inviting and enticing, hinting at the delicious flavours that awaited me. As I took my first sip, I was greeted with a wonderful combination of smoothness and richness. The coffee had a velvety texture that coated my palate, leaving a lingering sense of indulgence." Martin H.
Understanding Espresso Extraction and Milk Steaming
To make a perfect cappuccino or latte, it's essential to understand the process of espresso extraction and milk steaming. Espresso extraction is the process of forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans to extract the coffee's flavour. Milk steaming is the process of heating and frothing milk to create a creamy and velvety texture.
Typically, a single espresso shot should use 8-9g of espresso ground coffee and should be extracted in 20 to 30 seconds. The yield should be 25 -30ml.
To steam milk correctly, it's essential to use cold milk. The steam wand should be inserted just below the surface of the milk and should be tilted to create a whirlpool effect. It's crucial to monitor the temperature of the milk to prevent scalding or burning.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Cappuccinos and Lattes
While making cappuccinos and lattes may seem simple, there are several common mistakes that many people make. Some of these mistakes include:
- Using old or stale coffee beans
- Not using the correct amount of coffee or water
- Not steaming milk correctly
- Not using the correct temperature for milk or water
- Not properly cleaning the espresso machine or steam wand