Coffee Insights

How to Make the Perfect Latte

January 28, 2026

In this article, we’ll dive into what makes a latte the ultimate comfort drink, from its smooth espresso base to its creamy layer of steamed milk. You’ll learn how to pull the perfect shot, steam milk for that silky texture, and even try your hand at latte art.

What Is a Latte?

A coffee lover’s favourite, a latte is made with typically two shots of coffee and a generous amount of creamy steamed milk. The ratio of this milky drink is usually ⅓ coffee and ⅔ milk.

Pulling the Perfect Espresso Shot

For professional espresso machines, you’ll want to use a fine grind size to brew your espresso. This helps create resistance, allowing proper pressure to build up in the machine and give you a full extraction (about 30 seconds) for a concentrated, flavourful shot.

The ideal water temperature for brewing espresso is between 90°C and 96°C.

For lighter roasts, aim for 93°C to 96°C.
For darker roasts, stick to 89°C to 92°C.
This helps create a nice balance between bitterness and sweetness.

How to Make a Latte

You’ll need:

18g of ground coffee

250ml of milk

A large cup, about 300-350ml capacity

Method

Use the 18g of ground coffee to prepare a double shot of espresso.

Pour your milk of choice into a steaming pitcher. Fill your jug no more than a ⅓ to leave enough space for the milk to expand.

Steam the milk for about 2 seconds until you hear a paper-tearing noise to aerate it. Then raise the milk jug an inch or so and position the steam arm to the side. This should give you a nice swirling motion as you steam the milk.

Pour your steamed milk into your cup. Fancy trying latte art? Start from the middle, then swirl your jug around the cup. Then come back to the middle and slowly rock back and forth and flick down until you have a beautiful heart!

What’s the Difference Between a Latte, a Cappuccino and a Flat White?

Latte	Cappuccino	Flat White
A latte is a milk-based drink that should have only about a finger's worth of foam on top. This drink is perfect for anyone who wants a lighter coffee flavour.	A cappuccino is a frothy drink, with 50% foam and 50% coffee and milk. This drink is perfect for anyone looking for a more luxurious coffee drink.	A flat white is traditionally an 8-oz drink, with two shots of espresso and whole milk. This drink is perfect for anyone who enjoys creamy coffee, thanks to the whole milk.