The Perfect Latte

1 . Stage

Pour espresso into a coffee mug. If using a steam wand: Pour milk into a frothing pitcher and insert steam wand at an angle just barely below the surface. Steam for 1 to 2 seconds, then submerge wand a little deeper, still at an angle. Steam until sides of pitcher just start to become top hot to handle, or until milk reaches 140°.

2 . Stage

To use a milk frother: In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat milk to 140°. It won't be to a simmer, but hot to the touch. Pourr hot milk into a frothing pitcher or tilt saucepan to the side and insert the frother about 3/4 of the way to the bottom and froth until foamy and milk has thickened and looks like melted ice cream.

3 . Stage

To use a french press: Pour milk into a large microwave safe french press. Insert the plunger and lid of the french press and pump the milk until doubled in volume. Remove lid (and anything else metal) and microwave for 30 to 45 seconds, watching carefully to make sure milk doesn’t overflow.

4 . Stage

Pour steamed milk into espresso.