Café au Lait, which translates to “coffee with milk” in French, is a classic and beloved coffee beverage enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts around the world. This elegant and simple concoction combines the richness of coffee with the smoothness of steamed milk, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The origins of Café au Lait can be traced back to France, where it has been a popular morning drink for centuries. The French take their coffee seriously, and Café au Lait represents a traditional way of enjoying coffee that emphasizes balance and simplicity. One of the distinguishing features of Café au Lait is its unique method of preparation. In traditional French culture, a bowl or large cup is used to serve Café au Lait, allowing for easy dipping of breakfast items like crusty bread or croissants. This practice creates a leisurely and enjoyable breakfast experience, as the coffee and milk blend perfectly with each bite.
MAKES: 6 servings.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 c Milk
- 1 c Light cream
- 3 tb Instant coffee
- 2 c Boiling water
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Over low heat or in double boiler, heat milk and cream till hot. Meanwhile, dissolve coffee in boiling water.
- Before serving, beat milk mixture with rotary beater-till foamy.
- Pour milk mixture into one warmed pitcher or server, and coffee in another.
TO SERVE:
- Fill cups from both pitchers at the same time, making the streams meet en route.
Café au Lait has gained popularity beyond France and can now be found in cafés and coffee shops worldwide. It has become a staple in many breakfast menus and is often enjoyed as a comforting beverage throughout the day. Café au Lait can be customized to suit personal preferences by adjusting the ratio of coffee to milk or by adding sweeteners, syrups, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
The appeal of Café au Lait lies in its simplicity and the way it showcases the natural flavors of both coffee and milk. The combination of the bitter notes of coffee and the creamy sweetness of milk creates a balanced and satisfying drink that can be enjoyed by coffee connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
In summary, Café au Lait is a delightful fusion of coffee and milk, representing a timeless and elegant way of savoring the flavors of both ingredients. Its rich history, traditional preparation, and the ability to customize make it a beloved beverage that continues to captivate coffee lovers worldwide.
