We all know and love the latte. That smooth, creamy drink that gets us through our mornings (and sometimes afternoons). But have you ever wondered why we usually drink it hot? Is there a difference between a hot and cold latte? Let’s explore!
What exactly is a Latte
A latte is a espresso-based drink with steamed milk that is typically served in a glass or ceramic cup. It can be enjoyed hot or iced and the main difference between a latte and other espresso-based drinks is the amount of steamed milk that is added, which results in its overall creamy and smooth consistency.
Making an espresso-based latte requires a espresso machine and it is often topped with delicious latte art! If you are looking for an espresso-based experience that has just the right balance between espresso and steamed milk, then a latte is definitely something you want to try!
Related Article: Comparing Piccolo & Cortado: The Ins and Outs of Espresso
The debate between iced and hot lattes
An iced or hot latte is one of the most popular espresso-based drinks around, but with one very key difference: the temperature. People have their own preferences on what makes the perfect latte, and there’s no right or wrong answer.
Fans of iced lattes tend to appreciate a bold espresso flavor with a refreshing chill. Conversely, hot lattes are known for their creamy texture and warmth that can be achieved from adjusting espresso shots and steaming milk at just the right temperature.
Whether you prefer hot or cold, there’s something special about visiting your local coffee shop for the perfect espresso beverage tailored to your exact tastes.
Ultimately, both varieties are enjoyable in their own unique way – it all comes down to personal preference!
Why some people prefer cold lattes
Coffee lovers always have a variety of preferences when it comes to the temperatures of their drinks. People who prefer cold lattes instead of hot coffee on a hot day enjoy the iced coffee experience for its own unique merits.
An Iced latte is made with cold milk and ice cubes, making it an especially cold drink compared to regular iced coffee which is made with cold coffee and ice cubes. Cold lattes have become increasingly popular in recent years because they offer the same strong flavor as hot coffee but with an invigoratingly cool experience.
When trying to decide between a cup of hot or cold caffeinated beverage, some people simply enjoy the chill that comes with iced lattes more than traditional hot coffees – making them the perfect pick-me-up on a warm summer day.
Why some people prefer hot lattes
For some hot espresso lovers, there is nothing quite like the experience of drinking an extra-hot latte. By heating up the milk and combining it with other hot ingredients, you take hot drinks to the next level.
Hot lattes have an intense flavor when the hot espresso and hot milk combine together at the ideal temperature. When shots of espresso are added, the hot drink becomes even more flavorful.
People enjoy hot lattes because they love feeling the warmth of their drink even more than just tasting it – higher temperatures bring sweeter results!
Which is better for you – health-wise?
If you’re a coffee drinker looking for the perfect temperature, then a warm latte is the perfect choice for you. Latte contains espresso coffee and it is enjoyed in many cultures. When sipped at the perfect temperature, it actually has health benefits!
A hot latte can provide extra antioxidants which fight free radicals, while also reducing symptoms of inflammation which helps with digestion.
Plus it tastes great too! So don’t let anyone tell you that an iced or cold latte is better for your health: the perfect temperature for a latte, is a warm one.
Related Article: The Ultimate Guide To Chai: Tea, Latte, Or Dirty Chai – Which One’s For You?
what type of milk is best for a latte
Almond, Soy, and Oat Milks are all great options for latte drinks! Almond Milk is a delicious choice that is high in healthy fats, while Soy Milk has protein and vitamins.
Oat Milk is the newest trend that provides sweetness, alongside Whole Milk which creates creamy and rich flavor.
When choosing a type of milk next time you make a regular latte or specialty drinks like matcha lattes, macchiatos and cortados try experimenting with these milks to find your perfect blend.
Related Article: Coffee Revolution: How Oat Milk Is Transforming Your Daily Brew
Can I make a latte with a French Press?
Many people think that it’s impossible to make a latte without an espresso machine, but it turns out that with a bit of know-how and patience, you can make a latte using just the french press.
All you need is some freshly ground coffee beans (or instant coffee of your choice), hot water, and milk. To get the best foam consistency and flavor, you should gradually boil your milk and create a layer of foam on top with a small milk frother.
Making french press lattes on the regular? Check into this milk frother that will make it easier, and cleaner, to make the beautiful light and airy foam for your latte or cappuccino.
Add the coffee and layer of foam to your mug and watch as your homemade latte takes shape; all in under five minutes. With pride and satisfaction, you can now enjoy a delicious homemade latte – no espresso machine required!
The Bottom Line
Whether you prefer hot or cold lattes, both varieties have their own unique merits. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what type of experience you are looking for!
When deciding between a cup of hot or cold latte drinks, consider the health benefits that come with drinking warm beverages and don’t forget to experiment with milk types to find your perfect blend.
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hot latte or the chill of a cold one – choose whichever suits you best and enjoy!
The bottom line is that both hot and cold lattes are enjoyable in their own unique way; it all comes down to personal preference. Whether you’re looking for a hot or cold drink with your morning espresso, or something refreshing on a hot day, there’s a latte out there that is perfect for every occasion.
So don’t be afraid to experiment and find the beverages that suit you best! Enjoy your caffeinated pick-me-up in whichever way pleases you the most.
Conclusion
People tend to be very passionate about their coffee preference – whether it’s iced or hot. However, both iced and hot lattes can be delicious and healthy if made with the right ingredients.
Skim milk is always a good choice for health-conscious individuals because it has little to no fat. Some people prefer cold lattes because they think they taste better, while others believe that hot lattes are more flavorful.
Different strokes for different folks! In the end, it doesn’t really matter which type of latte you choose to drink. As long as you enjoy it, that’s all that matters.
So what’s your perfect latte? Share this article with your friend that you always argue with about which type of latte is better and finally settle the argument once and for all!