A latte is one of the most popular espresso-based drinks in the world. It’s smooth, creamy, and perfectly balanced when made right. At its core, a latte consists of a shot (or two) of espresso, steamed milk, and a small layer of microfoam on top.
Breville espresso machines have become a favorite for home baristas. They offer a range of machines that combine quality, ease of use, and thoughtful design. Whether you’re new to espresso or looking to refine your skills, a Breville machine can help you make a coffeehouse-quality latte right in your kitchen.
What Makes a Latte Different from Other Espresso Drinks?
Understanding the difference between espresso drinks helps you craft better coffee. Here’s how a latte stands out:
Latte: 1-2 shots of espresso + 6-10 oz of steamed milk + a thin layer of microfoam.
Cappuccino: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam (1:1:1).
Flat White: Similar to a latte, but with a higher coffee-to-milk ratio and very thin microfoam.
Macchiato: Espresso topped with just a dollop of foam.
The latte’s higher milk content makes it milder and creamier than other espresso drinks.
Overview of Popular Breville Machines
Breville offers several espresso machines ideal for making lattes:
Barista Express (BES870XL)
Built-in conical burr grinder
Manual steam wand
PID temperature control
Great for intermediate home baristas
Bambino Plus (BES500)
Compact and fast
Automatic milk frothing
Easy for beginners
Heats up in 3 seconds
Oracle Touch (BES990)
Fully automatic
Integrated grinder, tamper, and milk frother
Touchscreen interface
Professional-level results with minimal effort
Each model has strengths, but all can produce an excellent latte with proper technique.
Essential Ingredients & Tools
Best Coffee Beans for a Latte
For lattes, medium to dark roast beans work best. These roasts bring out the rich, chocolatey, and nutty flavors that blend well with milk. Look for beans labeled as “espresso roast” or “milk-friendly blends.”
Recommended beans
Brazil or Colombia single origins
Blends with chocolate or caramel notes
Freshly roasted within 2-4 weeks
Recommended Grind Size and Espresso Shot Preparation
The grind size should be fine but not powdery. It should feel like table salt. The right grind ensures proper extraction, which is key for flavor.
Breville grinders usually have adjustable settings:
Start around level 5-7 on Barista Express.
Aim for a 25-30 second shot time for a double espresso (about 18-20g in, 36-40g out).
Types of Milk and How They Affect Frothing
Milk plays a big role in your latte’s texture and taste.
Whole Milk: Best for frothing; rich, creamy, and stable foam.
2% Milk: Lighter texture, still decent for froth.
Oat Milk: Excellent plant-based option; creamy and steams well.
Almond or Soy Milk: May require barista versions for better texture.
Use cold milk from the fridge for the best froth. Fresh milk creates more consistent microfoam.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Latte
Grinding & Tamping Coffee for a Perfect Espresso Shot
Measure your dose: Use 18-20 grams of coffee for a double shot.
Grind: Set your grinder to a fine setting. Adjust based on extraction time.
Distribute: Even out the grounds in the portafilter.
Tamp: Apply firm, level pressure with your tamper.
Purge the group head: Run hot water through to clean and heat it.
Lock in the portafilter.
Extracting Espresso with Optimal Settings on a Breville Machine
Select your shot size: Single or double depending on preference.
Watch the flow: Espresso should flow like warm honey.
Time it: A double shot should take 25–30 seconds.
Taste test: If it’s sour, you may need a finer grind. If it’s bitter, try coarser.
Frothing Milk Properly: Temperature, Texture, and Techniques2
Fill pitcher with cold milk: No more than halfway full.
Purge steam wand: Release water before steaming.
Start steaming: Position wand just below the milk surface.
Stretch milk: Lower the pitcher slightly to incorporate air (hear gentle hissing).
Texture milk: Raise pitcher so steam tip stays just under the surface.
Stop at 140–150°F (60–65°C): Use a thermometer or feel for warmth.
Polish: Tap and swirl the pitcher to remove bubbles.
Pouring Milk for a Well-Balanced Latte
Pour slowly into the center: Let the milk blend naturally with espresso.
Tilt the cup slightly: Helps milk integrate smoothly.
Finish with a steady stream: For a smooth top layer of microfoam.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Espresso Shot Tasting Bitter or Sour
Sour? Grind finer or increase temperature slightly.
Bitter? Grind coarser or lower temperature.
Weak shot? Check your dose or tamp pressure.
Milk Froth Too Bubbly or Flat
Bubbly foam: Wand was too high, letting in too much air.
Flat milk: Not enough air incorporated.
Fix it: Focus on consistent, gentle stretching and texture phases.
Adjusting Breville Machine Settings for Better Results
Barista Express: Adjust grind size dial and use the pressure gauge.
Bambino Plus: Try manual frothing if auto mode isn’t satisfactory.
Oracle Touch: Use the touch settings to adjust shot volume and milk temp.
Advanced Techniques: Flavor & Latte Art
Enhancing Flavor with Syrups or Spices
Add 1–2 pumps of flavored syrup before pouring milk:
- Vanilla
- Caramel
- Hazelnut
- Pumpkin spice (seasonal)
Or sprinkle spices like cinnamon or nutmeg on top for a cozy finish.
Simple Latte Art Designs for Beginners
Start with easy designs:
Heart: Begin pouring in the center, raise pitcher slightly, then finish with a quick pull-through.
Rosetta: Gently wiggle the pitcher side to side as you pour.
Tulip: Pour three small circles, finishing with a pull-through.
Practice makes perfect. Focus on milk texture first—latte art comes with time.
Cleaning & Maintaining Your Breville Machine for Longevity
Daily: Wipe steam wand, flush group head, empty drip tray.
Weekly: Backflush with water or Breville cleaning tablets.
Monthly: Descale machine (more often if you have hard water).
Grinder: Clean burrs and hopper regularly.
Proper maintenance keeps flavors fresh and extends machine life.
Conclusion
Making a latte with a Breville espresso machine is both an art and a science. With quality beans, the right grind, fresh milk, and a bit of practice, you can consistently create delicious lattes at home. Whether you’re starting with a Barista Express or enjoying the automation of the Oracle Touch, mastering each step will elevate your coffee experience. Keep learning, keep tasting, and most importantly—enjoy your coffee journey.
Happy brewing!
Related topics:
- How to Make Iced Coffee with a Breville Espresso Machine
- How to Make a Latte with Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine
- How to Make a Latte with Mr. Coffee Espresso Machine