Cafe au lait

Café au lait is a popular coffee beverage that originated in France. The name translates to "coffee with milk" and it is made with equal parts of coffee (usually French press or drip brew) and steamed milk. Unlike a latte, which is also a coffee and milk beverage, café au lait does not have foam on top.

History

The origins of café au lait are not well-documented, but it is known to have been a staple in French households for centuries. It is traditionally served in a wide, bowl-like cup, which allows the drinker to enjoy the beverage's aroma and flavor. In the past, café au lait was often served with breakfast, accompanied by a piece of baguette or a croissant.

Preparation

To prepare a café au lait, one must first brew a strong pot of coffee. The coffee is then combined with an equal amount of hot, steamed milk. The milk is typically heated to a temperature of 150-155 degrees Fahrenheit (65-68 degrees Celsius), which is slightly cooler than the milk used in a latte. The coffee and milk are then poured together into a cup, creating a rich, creamy beverage.

Variations

There are several variations of café au lait around the world. In Spain, the beverage is known as "café con leche" and is typically served with breakfast. In New Orleans, café au lait is made with chicory-infused coffee and served with beignets. In Italy, a similar drink is known as "caffè latte."

See also

• Coffee
• French press
• Drip brew
• Latte
• Chicory
• Beignets