Preparing Cappuccino

FROTHING & STEAMING MILK

6.Slowly open the Steam Dial by turning it counter-clockwise. The farther the Steam Dial is rotated, the greater the volume of steam that will be released. Tilt the pitcher to one side to create a whirling motion in the milk, keeping the tip of the frothing nozzle about 1⁄4 inch below the milk’s surface. If large bubbles are being created or if the milk spatters, the nozzle is being held too high.

7.As the froth expands, it will be necessary to lower the pitcher. This is called the stretching phase of frothing.

8.When the frothed milk has expanded to about 3⁄4 the volume of the pitcher, lower the frothing nozzle into the pitcher to finish steaming (heating) the milk. Keep the pitcher tilted to maintain a whirling motion in the milk. Steam the milk until it’s between 140 and 165 degrees Fahrenheit. (At these temperatures, the pitcher will be very warm to the touch.) Avoid scalding the milk, which occurs at 175 degrees.

9.Before removing the frothing arm from the milk, close the Steam Dial by turning it clockwise until it stops. This prevents splattering.

Barista Tips

•Clean the frothing arm and nozzle immediately after use. See “Care and Cleaning” beginning on page 23.

•Lower fat milks are generally easier to froth. Skim milk can be tricky because it froths very easily, with a tendency to form large bubbles and dry peaks that mar its texture. Ultimately, the choice of milk is a matter of experimentation and taste. The most important factors in producing a superior froth are experience and good refrigeration: the colder the milk you use, the better.

The Italian word cappuccino is derived from Capuchin, an order of monks who wear garments the color of this most popular espresso drink. A standard cappuccino is a combination of steamed milk and espresso that’s capped with a layer of frothed milk; it’s usually served in a bowl-shaped cup of 6 to 7 ounce volume.