How to froth milk for latte art

The key to creamy, silky milk every time

Is there anything more visually pleasing than a perfectly crafted leaf or love heart on sitting contentedly on the surface of your favourite coffee? This indulgence is not reserved for cafes and restaurants. With a little bit of know-how, you can froth milk for latte art like a pro from home.

coffee bean guide

Choose the right milk base for your drink

The type of milk you choose will impact on the level of foam and the creaminess of your milk. Whole milk creates a full, thick foam while low-fat and skimmed milk will give you more foam with larger bubbles. Non-dairy alternatives can be used but the finish is often not quite as satisfying as other milks.

Select your milk frother

Electric milk frothers are simply a hand held, motorised whisker. While the whisker can create froth, the consistency is not always of high enough quality to create latte art. Espresso machine milk wands offer a more powerful approach to coffee creativity but they are a little tricky to get right. When it comes to quality milk foam with a simple, user-friendly experience, jug frothers offer the best solution. Their use of induction coils creates an even heat within the jug and results in a smooth, even foam.

Our recommendation

Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother

The Nespresso Aeroccino3 allows you to create milk in the perfect consistency for latte art. With milk heating in a little over a minute, it’s a quick, simple option that will give you a smooth and creamy finish. Simply choose your whisk, fill the jug up to the correct level, pour in the milk and press the button. This milk frother works for all kinds of milk and is quick and easy to clean.

Buy a Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother

Nespresso Barista Milk Frother

The Nespresso Barista milk frother invites you to create over 20 iced and hot milk recipe beverages including a creamy latte, iced frappe, mocha and latte art option. This app-connected device includes an integrated touch display to navigate through recipes with ease. Simply find the ingredients, sit back and let Barista do the rest.

Buy a Nespresso Barista Milk Frother

How to create latte art

  1. Use cold milk This allows enough time for the milk to texturise before it burns.
  2. Choose your blend Stronger, more intense blends will provide a deeper colour contrast for your art, but remember, it’s important to put flavour first.
  3. Stir the milk Gently stirring the milk before pouring will ensure an even consistency throughout.
  4. Adjust your pouring height Start your pour high above the cup. This encourages the milk to penetrate all the way through the espresso. Then, slowly bring the jug closer to the cup as you begin your design.

With quality coffee, a well-designed coffee machine and a little bit of practice you can become your very own barista.

Want to give it a try?

Discover Nespresso's range of milk frothers to create your own latte art.

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