What is Cafe Au Lait
Everything You Need to Know About Cafe Au Lait
Call it the wake-up elixir, the aromatic sensation, or the miracle in a cup - coffee remains to be the favorite beverage of millions worldwide. Its irresistible aroma, soothing warmth, and taste can capture anyone’s senses. It's the perfect start to the day or an excellent pick-me-up for a sluggish afternoon. But if you've ever walked into a cafe or coffee shop and stared at the menu board, overwhelmed by all the different coffee varieties, we've got you covered. In this 787 Coffee blog, we'll be diving deep into one of the classic coffee drinks - Cafe au lait.
What is Cafe au lait | 787 Coffee Drinks Explained
Cafe au lait, also known as "coffee with milk" in French, is a simple yet elegant coffee drink that has been around since the 1700s. It consists of a robust coffee blend mixed with hot milk in a one-to-one ratio. This coffee is usually served in a large bowl-shaped ceramic cup, which is perfect for dunking a pastry or two while savoring the coffee's warm flavors.
Although Cafe au lait has been around for centuries, its popularity has seen a recent resurgence in the US, particularly in New Orleans, where it's a staple drink. In the south, Cafe au lait is often drunk with chicory coffee, which gives it a smoky and nutty flavor. While chicory coffee is not a necessity, it adds a unique twist to the classic drink that has made it a fan favorite.
Preparing Cafe au lait is relatively simple. First, you will need to brew a strong coffee blend using a French press, a drip coffee machine or brewer of choice. Then add an equal amount of hot, frothy milk to the coffee to create the perfect balance of coffee and creamy, warm milk. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add some cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix, which not only enhances the flavor but will also make your drink Instagram-worthy - tag @787coffee and we will feature your Cafe Au Lait on our instagram page.
What sets Cafe au lait apart from other coffee drinks is that it's traditionally served with breakfast, making it the perfect start to the day. It's also great for those lazy weekends when you want to indulge in a warm drink and a croissant or two while lounging in bed. The coffee's warm flavor can also be enjoyed throughout the day as a soothing pick-me-up when you need a break from work or a shopping spree.
How to make a Cafe Au Lait at home?
Start by brewing a fresh pot of coffee using the coffee pot or brewer of your choice.
While the coffee is brewing, pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat it on medium heat.
Whisk the milk continuously as it heats until it starts to steam and small bubbles start to form around the edges of the pan. Be careful not to let the milk boil.
Once the milk is heated, remove it from the heat and continue to whisk it vigorously for about 30 seconds to create foam.
Pour the brewed coffee into a mug.
Next, carefully pour the steamed milk into the mug, making sure to hold back the foam with a spoon.
Once the cup is mostly filled, spoon the remaining foam on top of the café au lait.
Serve hot and enjoy your homemade café au lait.
Note: The ratio of 787 coffee to milk can be adjusted based on personal preference. Additionally, you can add sweeteners or flavorings such as vanilla or cinnamon to the milk before steaming it for added flavor.
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History of the Café au Lait
Café au lait translates to "coffee with milk," is a popular coffee drink with origins in France. The drink is made by combining brewed coffee and hot milk in equal portions.
The drink's popularity can be traced back to France in the early 1700s, where it was initially enjoyed as a breakfast beverage. At the time, milk was often added to coffee to temper its bitterness, and café au lait became one of the most popular ways to enjoy the drink.
As the beverage spread throughout Europe, it was adapted to local tastes and customs. In Germany, for example, it is common to mix strong coffee with chocolate before adding the milk, while in Italy, café au lait is typically served in a glass rather than a cup.
Café au lait also gained popularity in North America, particularly in New Orleans, where it became a signature beverage of the city's renowned coffee shops. Today, it is enjoyed worldwide and is available in various forms, including iced café au lait, espresso-based café au lait, and custom flavor variations like vanilla or caramel café au lait.
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Conclusion:
Coffee has become a globally loved beverage due to its vast variety and rich taste. Cafe au lait has added to the extensive list of coffee drinks worldwide, with its unique taste. Its simple preparation method, a one-to-one ratio of coffee and warm milk, makes it a go-to beverage for anyone looking to enjoy the symphony of coffee and warmth. Whether you drink it at breakfast to kick-start your day or as a midday pick-me-up, Cafe au lait is the perfect addition to any caffeine lover's list of favorite coffee drinks.