start with cold milk.
for dairy milk, i aim for about 140 to 145 degrees fahrenheit.
Breville uses that range in its milk-steaming guide. it also warns that overheating milk can hurt the foam and make the flavor bitter.
purge the steam wand before putting it in the milk.
keep the tip just below the surface at first. this adds air.
once you have enough air, move the tip a little deeper so the milk starts moving in a whirlpool.
stop when the milk reaches the target temperature.
if you do not use a thermometer, the outside of the pitcher should feel hot. a thermometer is more consistent while you are learning.
after steaming, tap the pitcher lightly and swirl it. the milk should look glossy, not dry or full of large bubbles.
plant milks can behave differently. some separate at lower temperatures, so follow the directions for the milk you use.
wipe the steam wand with a clean damp cloth right away. purge it again after wiping.
my order is cold milk, air first, whirlpool second, stop before it overheats.
Couplet has coffee for the latte underneath the milk.
coupletcoffee.com / @couplet
gefen