A café au lait is a simple yet elegant French coffee drink that blends bold brewed coffee with warm steamed milk. Unlike a latte, which is made with espresso, café au lait uses drip coffee or French press coffee, making it an easy and delicious option to prepare at home.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the perfect café au lait, including variations and tips for the best flavor.
1. What Is a Café au Lait?
✔️ French for “coffee with milk”
✔️ Made with equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk
✔️ Less foamy than a latte, with a smoother texture
Café au Lait vs. Latte: What’s the Difference?
| Drink | Coffee Base | Milk Ratio | Foam? | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Café au Lait | Brewed coffee (French press, drip) | 1:1 | No | Smooth, creamy |
| Latte | Espresso | 1:3 | Yes | Creamy, light foam |
🔹 Café au lait has a stronger coffee taste than a latte since it uses brewed coffee instead of espresso.
2. Ingredients for the Perfect Café au Lait
✔️ 1 cup freshly brewed coffee (French press or drip coffee)
✔️ 1 cup steamed milk (whole milk or oat milk for best texture)
💡 Pro Tip: Use a medium-dark roast coffee for a balanced, smooth taste.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Café au Lait
Step 1: Brew the Coffee
- Use a French press, drip coffee maker, or pour-over method.
- Use a medium to dark roast for a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
1️⃣ Heat the milk to 60–65°C (140–150°F).
2️⃣ Use a steam wand or milk frother to create a silky texture (without foam).
3️⃣ If you don’t have a frother, heat the milk in a saucepan and whisk vigorously.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
- Pour equal parts brewed coffee and steamed milk into a large cup.
- Stir gently and enjoy!
💡 For a French-style experience, serve with a croissant or toast. 🥐
4. Café au Lait Variations to Try
🔥 Iced Café au Lait – Use cold brew coffee and chilled milk for a refreshing version.
🔥 Cinnamon Café au Lait – Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced flavor.
🔥 Vanilla Café au Lait – Mix in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra sweetness.
🔥 Caramel Café au Lait – Drizzle caramel sauce for a richer taste.
5. Best Coffee Beans for a Café au Lait
✔️ Medium-dark roast – Smooth, slightly bold flavor.
✔️ Single-origin beans (Brazil, Colombia) – Naturally sweet and nutty.
✔️ French roast – Classic choice for a strong café au lait.
💡 Pro Tip: Avoid light roasts, as they can taste too acidic with steamed milk.
6. Tips for the Best Café au Lait Experience
✔️ Use fresh, high-quality coffee beans for the best taste.
✔️ Avoid frothy milk—café au lait should be smooth, not foamy.
✔️ Adjust the coffee-to-milk ratio based on preference (try 2:1 for a stronger coffee flavor).
✔️ Pair with pastries like croissants, madeleines, or biscotti for an authentic café experience.
Final Thoughts
A café au lait is a simple, smooth, and delicious coffee drink that’s perfect for those who enjoy a balanced mix of strong coffee and warm milk. Whether you prefer it hot, iced, or flavored, it’s an easy and classic way to enjoy a French-style coffee at home. ☕✨