Café Breve is a rich and creamy coffee made with half-and-half or cream, creating a luxurious and velvety texture.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make a great Café Breve coffee:
Ingredients:
Freshly brewed espresso (1-2 shots)
Half-and-half or heavy cream
Sugar (optional)
Flavorings (optional, e.g., vanilla or caramel syrup)
Whipped cream (optional)
Chocolate shavings or cocoa powder for garnish (optional)
Equipment:
Espresso machine or Moka pot (for brewing espresso)
Steam wand (if available)
Coffee cup or mug
Step 1: Brew Espresso
If you have an espresso machine: Prepare 1-2 shots of espresso using your espresso machine. The amount can vary depending on your preference.
If you don’t have an espresso machine: Brew espresso using a Moka pot as described in previous instructions.
Step 2: Heat the Half-and-Half or Cream
In a saucepan, gently heat the desired amount of half-and-half or heavy cream over low heat. Be careful not to let it boil. Heating it will make it easier to blend with the espresso and create a velvety texture.
Step 3: Froth the Cream
If you have a steam wand: Steam and froth the cream using your espresso machine’s steam wand until it’s creamy and velvety.
If you don’t have a steam wand: Whisk the heated cream vigorously to create some foam. It won’t be as frothy as using a steam wand, but it will still add a creamy texture.
Step 4: Prepare the Coffee
In a coffee cup or mug, pour the freshly brewed espresso.
Step 5: Add Cream and Sweetener
Pour the frothed or heated cream over the espresso. The amount of cream should be to your taste, but traditionally, it’s roughly equal parts espresso and cream.
Add sugar to taste, if desired.
If you want additional flavorings like vanilla or caramel, you can add a splash of flavored syrup at this point.
Step 6: Garnish (Optional)
For a more indulgent Café Breve, you can garnish it: Top the Café Breve with whipped cream.
Sprinkle chocolate shavings or a dash of cocoa powder on top.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Café Breve is ready to enjoy. It’s a luxurious and creamy coffee with a rich espresso base. Customize the sweetness, creaminess, and flavorings to suit your taste preferences. Sip slowly and savor the velvety texture and bold coffee flavor.
