A latte consists primarily of espresso and steamed milk.
Here's a breakdown of the components:
- Espresso: A single or double shot of espresso forms the base of the latte. This provides the coffee flavor.
- Steamed Milk: Several ounces of steamed milk are added to the espresso. This gives the latte its creamy texture and milder coffee taste.
- Milk Foam (Optional): A thin layer of milk foam is sometimes added on top, though lattes typically have less foam than cappuccinos.
The typical ratio of espresso to steamed milk is approximately 1:2.
In summary, a latte is a coffee beverage made with espresso and steamed milk, often topped with a thin layer of foam.