A Very Homemade Latte

Sometimes, especially in this final stretch of March, the winter can be such a jerk. I want to spend my free days exploring undiscovered city treasures on my bike, or traipsing about in flouncy skirts and open-toed shoes, or wandering through outdoor markets eating softserve. But in these last few nasty weeks of winter, when spring seems like nothing but a tease, you should take the time to appreciate your cozy apartment and treat yourself to some quality indoor relaxation. And what is a better treat on a chilly weekend morning than a latte?

I know - a latte that doesn't require you to put on real pants to go get it.

I don't have an expensive espresso machine or a milk steamer. I do have a Moka pot, which is an Italian stovetop espresso maker that you can buy for the price of five Starbucks lattes and will last you for years. It makes espresso quickly and beautifully and doesn't require filters or extensive cleaning. For frothing milk, I use an Aerolatte.

Here's what you need:

Homemade Latte

1 cup milk, your choice (I used 1% dairy milk - Soy or Almond works too!)

1-2 shots of freshly made espresso

Sugar, vanilla extract, syrup to taste

1. Make your espresso to your preference. I use Kimbo espresso which can be hard to find in the States - my family goes to a particular shop on Federal Hill in Providence to get it - but I'm sure you can find it online.

2. While the espresso is brewing, heat 1 cup of milk in a saucepan over low heat. You don't want the milk to scald - just heat it until it starts to steam lightly.

3. Using your milk frother, foam the milk until small bubbles appear throughout. You want small, opaque-looking bubbles, not big translucent ones. I tilted the pan sideways to pool the milk so that I didn't incorporate too much air.

4. Add flavoring to the bottom of your mug if desired, then pour 1-2 shots of espresso into the bottom of mug as well.

5. Transfer milk to a container with a spout, like a pitcher or pyrex measuring cup. Pour the milk over the espresso slowly, using a spoon to hold back the foam. End with the foam on top! 

6. Add cinnamon, sugar, cocoa, pumpkin pie spice, or anything that you think will make your latte more delicious. Enjoy alongside your favorite gloomy-day activity! My personal favorite: Game of Thrones marathon prep for Season 3.