WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FROTHED VS STEAMED MILK?

by azeem__sarwar · Update Jul 18 2022

Choosing the right coffee to make will help you have a fantastic day. The majority of us enjoy our coffee with milk. The kind we favor, however, may change. Are you unsure about the difference between frothed vs. steam milk? You're not alone, so don't worry. Because of the ambiguity surrounding the subject, many individuals confuse the two names. They aren't the same, though. And you'll need to understand the distinction if you ever want to make the perfect latte or cappuccino at home. Let's begin, then!

For many people, adding milk to their coffee is essential. It is the primary component in numerous coffee varieties, including Latte, Cappuccino, Mocha, and countless others. But some people are unaware that you can use two types of milk to make coffee: frothed milk and steamed milk. You know that the ideal espresso shot isn't enough if you regularly drink lattes, macchiato, or cappuccinos. Learn the difference between frothed vs. steamed milk.

WHAT IS FROTHED MILK?

Milk that has been frothed is simpler to prepare, uses less equipment, and yields bubblier, airy foam that may be added to hot or cold beverages. A cappuccino is among the most well-known beverages made with frothed milk. Compared to steam milk, frothed milk's air bubbles are significantly bigger, have a larger volume, and feel lighter. On the tongue, it seems to dissolve. Because frothed milk includes more air and less water than steamed milk, baristas frequently describe it as being "drier" than steamed milk.

Moreover, it is the same as steaming, but you must integrate more wind to make foam. That is the main difference between frothed vs. steamed milk. A steam wand, electric frother, or manual frother can be used to aerate fluid.

HOW TO MAKE PERFECT FROTHED MILK

  • Begin by using less milk than you believe you will require. The cold foam expands up to three times its volume.
  • To begin adding air, give the milk a brisk shake or stir.
  • Use your preferred frother.
  • After foaming, don't be concerned if it separates into a liquid and a frothy layer. 
  • Begin with cold or cooled milk for more and longer-lasting froth. You can also use milk with higher fat content.

WHAT MAKES FROTHED MILK BETTER?

Frothed milk also improves the flavor of your beverage when compared to ordinary milk. It also insulates your drink, keeping it warm for longer.

WHAT EXACTLY IS STEAMED MILK?

Steamed milk is the result of heating milk with a coffee machine's steaming wand. It's less fizzy but creamier, smoother, and even silkier. Because of the tiny bubbles formed after aerating the milk, it is commonly referred to as microfoam. The foam is more reflective and thicker, making it great for latte art.

A steam wand injects a forceful jet of steam into the milk and is used to make steamed milk. Heat breaks down the fat in the milk and forms small air bubbles as you add steam. This is referred to as microfoam and is essential for latte art. The proteins in the milk provide the framework for these small bubbles to cling to.

However, the latte is the standard drink to sample steamed milk, consisting of one-third espresso and two-thirds steamed milk, sometimes with a thin layer of milk foam. The cortado and latte macchiato are two other hot beverages made with steamed milk.

MILK STEAMING TIPS

  • Using an espresso thermometer will ensure that you always obtain the appropriate product.
  • Its temperature should be between 65- and 70-degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Once the temperature reaches 60 degrees Celsius, turn off the heat since the liquid will continue to heat.
  • Tilting the pitcher will help you achieve a smooth smoothness as you roll the milk.

WHAT MAKES STEAMED MILK BETTER?

Steamed milk has a long-lasting, rich, creamy flavor. And the general rule is that the creamier the milk, the higher the vitamin content. In addition, heating milk often makes it considerably sweeter. This is due to the steaming process, which breaks down the lactose (milk sugar) and mildly caramelizes it, making the milk sweet. It's safe to argue that steamed milk tastes far superior to frothed or foamed milk. However, this is purely a question of personal preference based on your palette.

DOES THE TYPE OF MILK MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Any milk can be used to generate foamed milk. However, the texture, flavor, and structure of your foamed milk will differ. It all comes down to the fat-to-protein ratio in milk. The most popular options are 1 percent or 2 percent milk. Full cream or half-and-half can also be used; however, it will take a little longer. Keep an eye out for specialty milk labeled "Barista Version" at your neighborhood grocer. These have extra lipids and stabilizers to provide the same texture as dairy milk.

WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FROTHED VS STEAMED MILK?

Although they sound identical, frothed, and steamed milk appear very different. They also have a distinct flavor and react significantly differently in drinks. The froth is towering and 'dry,' keeping its shape rather well. The milk flavor of this foamy milk is relatively neutral. Foamed milk is a tasty topping that can help to lighten up a hefty drink.

On the other hand, the steaming process that heats the milk gives it a thick texture and a satiny gloss. Steamed milk has a more robust flavor of rich dairy. It also has enough substance to not blend with coffee right away. As a result, it is the superior choice for latte art.

TIME TO EXTRACT A CONCLUSION

There is no obvious winner in the frothed milk vs. steamed milk dispute. Because they both improve the flavor of your beverage, making it more fascinating, fuller, and calming. The main difference between them is volume: frothed milk has more volume than steamed milk. Furthermore, frothed milk is utilized for foam-filled beverages. However, steamed milk is more commonly employed in coffee preparations since the aeration in a steamed fluid is delicate and just serves to make it a little heavier.

Both are delicious additions to coffee and should be made by a trained barista. Even if you are not a competent barista with access to an espresso machine, making frothed milk at home will be simpler. Use steamed milk for creamy espresso drinks like a latte, latte macchiato, or cortado. However, use frothed milk for lighter espresso drinks like cappuccino or macchiato. So, pick the way that works best for you and enjoy a steaming mug of bliss!