Café au Lait is a smooth, comforting, and well-balanced coffee drink that originated in France. Made with equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk, this simple yet elegant beverage is perfect for those who enjoy a mild, creamy coffee experience without the strong intensity of espresso-based drinks like a latte or cappuccino.
Unlike a latte, which uses espresso as the base, Café au Lait is made with strong brewed coffee, making it an excellent option for those who don’t own an espresso machine. Whether you’re looking for a cozy morning drink or an afternoon pick-me-up, mastering Café au Lait at home is easy and rewarding.
What Makes Café au Lait Special?
Café au Lait is loved for its rich, velvety texture and the way it allows the flavors of both coffee and milk to shine equally. It is commonly served in a large bowl-style cup in France, making it ideal for dipping pastries like croissants or baguettes.
✔ Mild yet flavorful – The brewed coffee base gives it a gentler taste compared to espresso-based drinks.
✔ Creamy texture – Steamed milk makes it smooth and luxurious.
✔ No special equipment needed – Can be made with a French press, drip coffee maker, or Moka pot.
✔ Perfect balance – The 1:1 ratio of coffee to milk ensures a well-rounded taste.
Ingredients for the Perfect Café au Lait
✔ 1 cup (240ml) freshly brewed coffee (dark roast works best)
✔ 1 cup (240ml) steamed milk (whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like oat milk)
✔ French press, drip coffee maker, or Moka pot
✔ Milk frother, steam wand, or stovetop heating method
✔ Large ceramic mug or bowl for serving
The key to a great Café au Lait is using a bold, full-bodied coffee that pairs well with the creaminess of the steamed milk.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Café au Lait
Step 1: Brew Strong Coffee
✔ Use a dark roast coffee for a rich and smooth taste.
✔ Brew 1 cup (240ml) of coffee using one of the following methods:
- French Press – Use a coarse grind and steep for 4 minutes before pressing.
- Drip Coffee Maker – Brew using slightly more coffee grounds for a stronger flavor.
- Moka Pot – Produces a bold, espresso-like coffee that works well for Café au Lait.
✔ Tip: Avoid weak coffee—Café au Lait tastes best with strong, full-bodied coffee that complements the milk.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
✔ Heat 1 cup (240ml) of milk until hot but not boiling (around 150°F or 65°C).
✔ Use one of the following methods to create a smooth, silky texture:
- Steam Wand – Position the steam wand just below the surface and aerate until small bubbles form.
- Milk Frother – Heat the milk and use a handheld frother to create microfoam.
- Stovetop Method – Heat milk in a saucepan, whisking continuously until smooth and frothy.
✔ Tip: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but oat milk is the best non-dairy alternative for steaming.
Step 3: Combine Coffee and Steamed Milk
✔ Pour the freshly brewed coffee into a large cup or bowl.
✔ Slowly add the steamed milk, keeping a 1:1 ratio for an authentic Café au Lait.
✔ If using frothed milk, spoon a small layer of microfoam on top for a café-style finish.
✔ Tip: Stir gently to blend the flavors before sipping.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
✔ Serve immediately while the milk is warm and smooth.
✔ Enjoy with a croissant, baguette, or biscotti for a classic French breakfast experience.
Café au Lait vs. Other Coffee Drinks
✔ Café au Lait vs. Latte – A Café au Lait uses brewed coffee, while a latte is made with espresso.
✔ Café au Lait vs. Cappuccino – A cappuccino has more foam and less milk, while a Café au Lait is smoother.
✔ Café au Lait vs. Flat White – A Flat White uses microfoam milk and espresso, making it stronger and creamier.
Café au Lait Variations to Try
✔ New Orleans Café au Lait – Made with chicory coffee, giving it a slightly nutty, caramelized flavor.
✔ Vanilla Café au Lait – Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a sweet twist.
✔ Cinnamon Café au Lait – Sprinkle cinnamon powder on top for warmth and spice.
✔ Mocha Café au Lait – Mix 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder into the coffee for a chocolatey touch.
✔ Caramel Café au Lait – Drizzle caramel syrup into the milk before steaming.
Tips for the Best Café au Lait Experience
✔ Use high-quality coffee beans – A bold, dark roast works best to complement the milk.
✔ Steam the milk properly – Avoid overheating, which can create a burnt taste.
✔ Keep the 1:1 ratio – Too much milk can overpower the coffee’s flavor.
✔ Pair with a pastry – A classic French breakfast includes Café au Lait with a croissant or pain au chocolat.
Final Thoughts
Café au Lait is a simple yet sophisticated coffee drink that offers a smooth and balanced taste, perfect for a relaxed morning or cozy afternoon. Whether you enjoy it plain, flavored, or with a side of pastries, mastering this classic French coffee at home is easy and rewarding.
Try making a traditional Café au Lait or experiment with different flavors to find your perfect version. No matter how you enjoy it, this creamy, comforting coffee will transport you to a Parisian café with every sip!