Cappuccino is one of the most popular coffee drinks around the world. This is probably because cappuccino can be versatile in flavor and texture, so it can be easily adjusted to different tastes and preferences.
A cappuccino traditionally consists of three layers, first a good espresso then steamed milk and last a layer of foam.
But if you want to get to know more about this amazing coffee drink, and make your own cappuccino at home, this is the right place for you.
What Is Cappuccino?
A Cappuccino is a very popular coffee drink made of three layers: an espresso, steamed milk, and a layer of foam.
Cappuccino is an Italian coffee-based drink prepared with espresso, hot milk, and milk foam. But do you know where the drink comes from? And would you believe this hot new beverage sweeping the nation is actually a hundred years old?
Making a good Cappuccino
When it comes to making a Capuccino, getting the ratios of milk and espresso is the key.
The ratio is 1:1:1 and that’s single shot (or double if you prefer) espresso, one part steamed milk and one part foam, Too much milk will make it closer to a latte.
If you want to start your mornings with a cappuccino, the good news is that the recipe for making it is really simple.
Follow these simple steps to master your own perfect cappuccino at home.
STEP #1. MAKE AN ESPRESSO
To make a good cappuccino, you first need to make an espresso. You don’t need to have a fancy coffee machine to make it similar to your favorite coffee shop one. You can also use a mocha coffee maker if more convenient for you.
STEP #2. PREPARE A WIDE CAPPUCCINO CUP (around 200ml)
You need a wide cup because you need more space for the steamed milk and foam which are added after. Pour the prepared espresso and continue with STEP #3.
STEP #3. STEAM AND WHIP THE MILK – CAPPUCCINO STYLE
Heat 1 cup of milk in a 2-quart saucepan over medium heat. Let the milk simmer until bubbles form around the edges, but don’t boil the milk. Remove the pan from heat and set it on a flat surface.
Next, whip the milk with an electric mixer, increasing the speed as the milk begins to thicken. Continue mixing until you get the desired volume of froth.
STEP #4. MAKE THE CAPPUCCINO
A classic cappuccino calls for 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foam. You can mix it up by using 2 or 3 tablespoons of flavored syrups or even different kinds of milk, like chocolate or vanilla.
History of a Cappuccino
Cappuccino takes its name from the order of Franciscan Minor friars, named “cappuccini” from their hooded frock (“cappuccio” means hood in Italian).
The drink has always been known by this Italian name. The Espresso coffee machine used to make cappuccino was invented in Italy, with the first patent being filed by Luigi Bezzera in 1901.
The beverage was used in Italy by the early 1900s, and grew in popularity as the large espresso machines in cafés and restaurants were improved during and after World War Two. By the 1950s, the Italian cappuccino had found its form.
Typically regarded as myth, some believe that a 17th century Capuchin monk, Marco d’Aviano, invented Cappuccino after the Battle of Vienna in 1683, and that it was named after him. No one knows if this is true or not.
Cappuccino was a taste largely confined to Europe, Australia, South Africa, South America and the more cosmopolitan regions of North America, until the mid-1990s when cappuccino was made much more widely available to North Americans, as upscale coffee bars sprang up.
In Italy, cappuccino is generally consumed early in the day as part of the breakfast, with a croissant, better known to Italians as cornetto, or a pastry. Generally, Italians do not drink cappuccino with meals other than breakfast. That’s obviously not the case in most other countries.
I personally enjoy a good Cappuccino whenever the mood strikes me, and that can be in the morning, the middle of the day, or even in the evening if I know I’m going to be awake for a while.
The Popularity of Cappuccino
As the cappuccino spread from Italy to the rest of the world, the meaning of the word changed.
There are many versions of the original cappuccino, and some are good, and some are not even remotely good as the original ones.
There’s Iced Cappuccino, or cappuccini freddo, which is a cold version of the hot cappuccino. In Italy, this drink has cold, frothed milk added to the top. In America, it is often an iced (or iced, blended) beverage. I think it is a good summer refreshment.
Flavored cappuccinos are very popular in the United States. Typically, flavored simple syrups are used to add the flavor of your choice. Popular flavors include vanilla, chocolate, caramel, peppermint, raspberry, and cinnamon. Sometimes, other additives (such as powdered cinnamon or cocoa, or drizzled caramel or chocolate sauce) are also added on top of the cappuccino’s foam.
The sizes and serving cups for cappuccinos also vary from place to place.
Italian cappuccino is traditionally served in 150 to 180 ml (5 to 6 fluid ounce) cups. In the last ten years or so, fast-food chains and coffeehouse chains started serving cappuccinos in sizes up to 600 ml. Too much, don’t you think?
Is a Cappuccino Good Coffee Drink for You?
If you like the milky taste and texture, and still feel the flavour and aroma of the coffee, this is a great drink for you.
If you haven’t tried yet, this is a perfect guide for you to do it yourself at home. After all, you can make your own perfect for you cappuccino.
I hope now you have enough information about how to make or order a prefect cappuccino and stay tuned for the next blog from Mastering The Most Popular Coffee Drinks series which will let you know everything about Cafe Latte.
Do you like cappuccino? If you haven’t already, are you willing to give it a try?
Share your thoughts in the comments, I would love to hear from you.
Enjoy Your Coffee!
And don’t forget to share this blog with your friends and family, someone might find this helpful.
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