Latte Art

Latte art was first developed in Seattle, the United States in the 19th century. This technique was popularized by David Schomer who appreciated the work of Jack Kelly for creating the heart pattern. Schomer, then created the rosette pattern, that was based on a photograph he saw in Cafe Mateki, Italy. This was then popularized in "Caffe Latte Art". This form of art is independently followed in different countries and involves introduction of espresso to develop microfoam. This art of combining crema and microfoam was initiated in Italy.

Latte art is the technique of pouring steamed milk into espresso, thereby creating beautiful patterns and designs on the surface of the latte. Latte art is genuinely difficult as it involves both the espresso shot and milk. It can also be created by embellishing simple drawings on the top of the foam. The quality of the espresso machine, the experience of barista and the work of latte artist contribute as a whole to generate this unique latte art.

How to Make Latte Art

• For one cup, pour enough milk in a steam pitcher or bowl. Turn the steam on and raise the steam wand near the top of milk. There should not be any bubbles and the milk should not stretch too much. Make the milk smooth and velvety instead of vigorous foam.
• Raise the temperature to 80° F. Now place the steam wand aside but deep into the milk. The position must be laid, such that it can spin counter-clock wise.
• While in motion, raise the temperature further to 150° F-160° F. Now remove the steam wand from the milk.
• Now let the milk settle for few seconds, then swirl the milk vigorously. In case you observe any bubbles, just pound the pitcher to remove the bubbles to get a velvety texture.
• Continue swirling for 20 - 30 seconds, even if while pouring the espresso.
• Now start pouring the milk into the espresso to create different patterns, like flowers, hearts, ferns, etc. Try with simple flower designs by pouring milk to the bottom of the pitcher, leaving 2 - 3 cms away from the bottom.
• Shake the pitcher back and forth to get the designs when the cup is half filled. When you do this, the flower will move forward and fill the top of the cup. Shake the cup gently with your wrist.
• Once the foam reaches the top of the cup, start pouring the milk to get a white flower etched on the foam. Avoid sinking of the foam and design.
• You can embellish the designs as per your choice, using stencils, milk foam and milk powder.

Latte Art Tools

After you know the latter art, you must also know the secret of perfection. This is possible only when you know the tools employed by latte artists to bring about this art with beauty.

• You obviously need an espresso coffee maker. Get the best espresso coffee machine for perfection. Automatic or semi-automatic machine with a powerful steam wand is desirable.
• Full bodies fresh ground espresso with good quality crema is a must.
• To pour and hold the milk, a steam pitcher is required.
• Fresh milk, whole-fat quality makes a good latte art. Low fat milk hinders with bubble formation. Prefer cool milk for use.
• To start with, use 6 - 12 oz wide mouth cup. Once you gain experience, the cup size won't matter.

It requires great deal of practice to make latte art. It is a beautiful creation that adds sensuousness to the flavor of your cuppa.