Description
Say goodbye to boring lattes and hello to the Classic Breve Coffee—a creamy, decadent espresso drink that’s like a hug in a mug! This American twist on the latte swaps milk for half-and-half, delivering a velvety texture and rich flavor. Perfect for cozy mornings or impressing your book club, this breve is your ticket to barista-level bliss. As a former cubicle warrior turned coffee ninja, I’m here to guide you through crafting this indulgent treat that sparks happy mornings everywhere.
Ingredients
1–2 shots espresso (1–2 oz, depending on desired strength)
4 oz half-and-half (equal parts whole milk and heavy cream)
1 tsp sugar or sweetener (optional, adjust to taste)
1/8 tsp vanilla extract or pinch of cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
Instructions
Brew the Espresso:
Using an espresso machine, grind 18–20g of high-quality coffee beans (dark or medium roast) to a fine consistency. Tamp firmly and pull 1–2 shots (1–2 oz) into a small cup, aiming for a rich crema.
No espresso machine? Use a Moka pot (fill basket with finely ground coffee, brew on medium heat) or AeroPress (1 tbsp coffee per 2 oz water, steep 30 seconds). For French press, use 1 tbsp coffee per 3 oz water, steep 4 minutes.
Prepare the Half-and-Half:
Pour 4 oz half-and-half into a steaming pitcher. Using a steam wand or milk frother, heat to 140–160°F (60–70°C), creating a creamy texture with a thin layer of microfoam.
No frother? Heat half-and-half in a small saucepan over medium heat until warm (not boiling). Whisk vigorously for 30–60 seconds to create froth.
Combine and Flavor:
Pour the espresso into a 6–8 oz mug.
Slowly add the steamed half-and-half, holding back the foam with a spoon. Top with a spoonful of microfoam.
Optional: Stir in 1 tsp sugar or sweetener and 1/8 tsp vanilla extract, or sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon.
Serve:
Serve immediately in a cozy mug. Sip slowly to savor the creamy, bold flavors, perfect for a beach sunrise or a quiet read.
Notes
Bean Choice: Dark roast adds chocolatey notes; medium roast offers fruity undertones. Freshly ground beans elevate flavor.
Frothing Tip: Start with cold half-and-half for better foam. If whisking manually, use a balloon whisk for maximum froth.
Substitutions: For a lighter version, use a 1:1 mix of skim milk and light cream. Dairy-free? Try coconut cream (thinner texture) or oat milk (less creamy).
Variations:
Caramel Breve: Add 1 tbsp caramel syrup before pouring half-and-half.
Iced Breve: Brew espresso over ice, add cold half-and-half, and stir.
Mocha Breve: Mix in 1 tsp cocoa powder for chocolatey richness.
Storage: Half-and-half keeps in the fridge for 7–10 days. Espresso is best fresh; don’t store brewed coffee.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Brewing, Frothing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz (1 cup)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g (with 1 tsp sugar; 0 g without)
- Sodium: 40 mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg