Cafe Con Leche
Spanish milk coffee
Café con Leche, a cornerstone of Spanish coffee culture, represents the perfect marriage of strong coffee and scalded milk. This traditional morning beverage is more than just coffee with milk; it's a ritual that has been perfected over generations in Spanish homes and cafes. The coffee base is typically a dark roast espresso or strongly brewed coffee, providing a robust foundation that can stand up to the generous portion of hot milk.
What distinguishes Café con Leche from other milk-based coffee drinks is the unique preparation of the milk. Rather than simply steaming the milk, it is heated until it reaches the scalding point, creating a distinctive flavor profile that complements the coffee's intensity. This method results in a smoother, slightly sweeter taste that makes it the perfect accompaniment to traditional Spanish breakfast pastries like churros or toast with tomato and olive oil.