Classic Espresso Drink Recipes: From Americano to Affogato

Once you can pull a decent espresso shot, a whole menu of cafe drinks opens up. Most espresso drinks are surprisingly simple — they are variations on espresso, steamed milk, and foam in different ratios. This guide covers every classic recipe you would find at a coffee shop, plus tips for making each one at home. All recipes below use a double shot of espresso (18g in, 36g out, 25-30 seconds) as the base. Adjust if you prefer single shots or different ratios. ...

April 4, 2026 · 8 min · Home Espresso Lab

How to Steam Milk for Latte Art: Beginner Technique Guide

Steaming milk is where home espresso gets really fun. A well-steamed pitcher of milk transforms a good espresso shot into a cafe-quality latte or cappuccino, and once you get the technique down, basic latte art is closer than you think. This guide covers the fundamentals of milk steaming, from choosing the right milk to pouring your first heart. What Makes Good Steamed Milk? The goal is microfoam: milk that has been aerated and heated to create a smooth, velvety texture with tiny, uniform bubbles. Good microfoam looks like wet paint and feels silky on the tongue. ...

April 4, 2026 · 8 min · Home Espresso Lab