What milk do baristas use?
Robert Clark
Published Jan 05, 2026
At about 3-4% fat content, it achieves an ideal balance of taste and texture when mixed with coffee. Whole milk is the barista's default choice when the consumer doesn't specific their milk preference. Reduced-fat milks, like 1% or 2%, lose some of the sweetness and body gained compared to using whole milk.
What is different about barista milk?
Super milk, sometimes called barista milk, has more protein than the regular product, and it is extra fatty and extra creamy. What's more, it produces a microfoam with an exceptional porcelain sheen -- excellent for latte art.What kind of milk do you use in a latte?
Dairy MilkWhen it comes to lattes and cappuccinos we always recommend whole milk before anything else. It has just the right balance of fats, proteins, sugar, and water to make smooth microfoam without being overwhelmingly creamy.
What kind of milk do you use for coffee art?
Best milk for steamingThe absolute best latte art is made with whole milk. You can try oat milk for dairy free, but it's just not the same. Use whole milk. Whole milk makes the best microfoam because it has the highest milk fat.
How do you froth milk like a barista?
Step by Step Guide
- Pour cold milk into a jug.
- Purge the steam wand by turning it on and off.
- Place the tip of the steam arm just below the surface of the milk.
- Turn the steam arm on to full power.
- Listen out for a 'chirping' sound - You're on the right track!