How to Make a Cappuccino Like a Barista
Make barista-quality cappuccinos at home! With the right tools, velvety milk, and perfect espresso, you’ll impress with every cup.
If you’ve ever marvelled at the velvety foam and perfectly balanced flavours of a barista-made cappuccino, you’re not alone. The good news? With the right tools and a bit of know-how, you can recreate this café classic at home. Let’s dive into the secrets of making cappuccino like a pro, and discover the gear that will elevate your coffee game.
Step 1: Start with quality beans
A perfect cappuccino begins with the right coffee beans. Opt for freshly roasted beans, preferably a medium or dark roast. Grind them just before brewing for maximum flavour. If you’re in the market for a reliable grinder, the Krups Expert Burr Coffee Grinder, is a top choice for consistent, even grinds.
Krups Expert Burr Coffee Grinder
The Krups Expert Burr Grinder GVX231 delivers precise, adjustable grinding for perfect coffee every time. Its sleek black and silver design, easy cleaning, and reliable performance make it a must-have for home baristas.
Step 2: Master the espresso shot
Espresso is the heart of a cappuccino. A good espresso machine, like the De'Longhi Dedica Style, delivers the pressure needed to extract a rich, aromatic shot. Aim for a 25-30 second extraction for the perfect balance of flavour and crema.
De'Longhi Dedica Style
The De'Longhi Dedica EC685M is a sleek, compact espresso machine that brews rich coffee and froths milk perfectly for barista-quality drinks at home.
Step 3: Steam the milk to perfection
Cappuccinos are made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam (1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foam). The texture of the milk is crucial—it should be velvety and microfoamed for that signature smoothness. If you don’t want to use the milk frother attached to your coffee machine, a handheld frother like the Bonsenkitchen Milk Frother Handheld is a great alternative.
Bonsenkitchen Milk Frother
The Bonsenkitchen Handheld Milk Frother quickly creates creamy, velvety froth, making it perfect for lattes, cappuccinos, or hot chocolates at home.
Step 4: Assemble with precision
Pour the steamed milk over your espresso shot, holding back the foam with a spoon. Once the cup is two-thirds full, gently spoon the foam on top. To get fancy, try your hand at latte art—it’s easier than you think with a little practice and a milk pitcher with a precision spout, like the De'Longhi Milk Jug.
De'Longhi Milk Jug
The De'Longhi Milk Jug is designed for precise frothing, helping you create smooth, creamy milk for perfect lattes and cappuccinos every time.
Step 5: Sip in style
Presentation matters! Serve your cappuccino in a proper ceramic mug or double-walled glass cappuccino mug, both of which retain heat and feel luxurious in hand. Pair it with a biscotti or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a professional finish.
Double-Walled Glass Cappuccino Mug
The Double-Walled Glass Cappuccino Mug keeps your drink hot while remaining cool to the touch, offering a stylish and functional way to enjoy your coffee.
Bonus tips for barista-worthy brews
- Use filtered water for brewing to enhance the coffee's taste.
- Clean your tools regularly—residual oils can affect flavour.
- Experiment with ratios and temperatures to find your perfect cup.
With a bit of practice and the right tools, your home cappuccinos will rival those from the finest coffee shops. Ready to get started? Explore these products to upgrade your coffee routine and enjoy barista-quality cappuccinos every day.
