The Café con Leche (Spanish for “coffee with milk”) is a beloved drink across Spain and Latin America.
It’s made by combining equal parts of strong coffee and hot milk, resulting in a creamy, balanced cup that’s both rich and comforting.
Perfect for mornings or relaxing afternoons, this drink embodies the warmth and simplicity of Spanish coffee culture.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 part strong brewed coffee (espresso or moka pot)
- 1 part hot milk
- Optional: sugar to taste
🛠️ Equipment
- Espresso machine or moka pot
- Milk steamer or saucepan
- Coffee cup or mug
- Spoon for stirring
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Process
1. Brew the Coffee
Prepare a strong cup of coffee using an espresso machine or moka pot.
The goal is to have a concentrated base — similar in strength to an espresso or slightly milder.
Set it aside while you heat the milk.
2. Heat the Milk
In a small pot or using a steamer, heat the milk until it’s hot but not boiling (around 65–70°C / 150–160°F).
You can also froth it lightly if you prefer a bit of texture, but traditionally the milk is smooth and flat.
3. Combine Coffee and Milk
Pour equal parts of hot coffee and hot milk into your cup — usually a 1:1 ratio.
If you want a stronger flavor, use a little more coffee; for a creamier drink, add more milk.
4. Sweeten to Taste
Add sugar if desired and stir gently until dissolved.
Café con Leche is often served unsweetened in Spain, but it’s completely up to your taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately while hot.
Enjoy the harmony between the strong, roasted coffee notes and the natural sweetness of the milk.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Café con Leche
- Use freshly brewed coffee — the flavor should be rich but not bitter.
- Whole milk gives a creamier texture, but oat milk or soy milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
- Heat the milk slowly to prevent burning.
- Adjust the coffee-to-milk ratio to your preference:
- 1:1 for a classic Café con Leche
- 2:1 for a stronger, morning-style cup
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a Spanish café twist.
❤️ Why You’ll Love Café con Leche
The Café con Leche is all about balance — the boldness of espresso softened by the creaminess of milk.
It’s comforting, smooth, and simple to make, yet feels elegant with every sip.
Perfect for breakfast with toast or pastries, or as an afternoon treat, it captures the cozy spirit of Spanish coffee tradition.
Once you taste it, it might just replace your usual latte or cappuccino!
DeliciousPath: Enjoyment in Every Moment
Explore the Gourmet on Board category for exquisite flavors that elevate your meals, even when you’re on a boat, and the Coffee category for aromatic coffee blends that make every moment special. DeliciousPath is here to turn every experience into something unforgettable!
