Learning Latte Art

Do you want to take your coffee-making to the next level? Do you want to truly stand out as a barista? Why not try your hand at latte art!

Our basic how-to guide
  1. The basis for quality latte art is a great shot of espresso. Because espresso is an emulsion unlike instant or drip coffee, it is far easier to create latte art on espresso with the clarity you need to form impressive patterns.
  2. The second ingredient you need for latte art is properly-prepared milk. Most espresso machines have a separate steam wand for use in heating and texturing milk for use in different types of coffee. After making sure the wand is clean, insert it into a jug of chilled milk. With the wand at about a 45° angle, you should be able to make the milk spin into a whirlpool so it can form a smooth microfoam. Heat the milk to about 60°C. This will achieve the right texture and make the resulting latte pleasantly hot. Before pouring the milk, make sure it is free of large bubbles. This can be done by tapping the pitcher of milk on a bench to bump the bigger bubbles out and swirling the jug gently.
  3. Pour fresh espresso into the cup of your choice; preferably a wide-mouthed one so you have plenty of room for your design. Holding the coffee cup at an angle, pour some of your milk into until the cup is about half full. Careful to pour slow enough to not break the rich crema on the surface of the espresso.
  4. When your cup of coffee is about halfway full, tilt the cup back upright and keep pouring until you have a spot of white microfoam in the middle of the coffee where you’re pouring your milk. Bring your jug closer to the surface of the coffee so you have more control over where you’re pouring.
  5. Now is the point to create your desired pattern in the latte. One of the easiest to do is a heart shape. Grow the white circle in the middle of your cup. When you’re almost done, move the jug to pour a line down through the middle to the other side of the cup to create the indent at the top of the heart and the tail at the bottom.
Now you know the basics, keep practicing!

There are lots of different latte art designs to try and interesting techniques like using cocoa powder, stencils and syrup. The key to mastering latte art is practice, preferably with real espresso machines. If you want to speed up this process or get the hang of the basics more easily, the best way is to learn from the experts.

Black Market Training offers a specialised latte art course to give you all the practice and mentoring you need to master latte art!