Coffee and Milk Dos and Don’ts: Drink Real Milk from Cows

It is safe to say that the latte is the most popular milk-based coffee beverage. Although, you must make it right by using real milk from cows and quality coffee for a smooth, flavorful sip. Made with espresso, coffee, or even tea, a latte is a milk drink that anyone can enjoy. For your next latte, follow these dos and don’ts of coffee and milk to create an enjoyable experience.

Using Real Milk from Cows

DON’T use alternative beverages to milk. Due to the acidity and temperature of coffee, alternatives like oat milk and soy milk are more likely to curdle in coffee. This can look like small flecks or a stream of liquid that won’t quite blend with the coffee. While it is safe to drink curdled milk caused by coffee’s acidity, it isn’t a pleasant coffee experience. Before you take that risk, check the expiration date or, better yet, choose real milk to reduce the chances of splitting.

DO use real milk from cows. Cow’s milk is a natural source of 4 B vitamins, or fuel your body needs to stay energized. Without all the additives found in alternative beverages, milk supports wellness more naturally because it is a high-quality animal protein.

DON’T add cold milk quickly to hot coffee. Remember, when something hot encounters something cold, you are likely to see a reaction of some kind. We have all shattered a glass container or two to learn this lesson. For ingredients, that likely means an ingredient will split or curdle and change the overall feel of the food and change the overall feel of the food.

DO warm milk or slowly add cold milk. To warm the milk slightly, you can heat it in the microwave for a few seconds or steam it if you have the tool handy at your coffee bar. When making coffee with milk, slowly add the milk to the hot coffee. This allows the coffee to cool slightly.

Other Hot Coffee and Latte Tips

DON’T add acidic ingredients like lemon juice or lemonade to your coffee. Coffee is already acidic, so adding more acidity means milk or creamer will curdle regardless of how it is added.

DO add non-acidic ingredients you enjoy, like flavored syrups. Flavored iced coffees are in. Enjoy the great variety of tastes with real milk from cows.

DON’T choose light roast coffees or coffees with citrus blends if you want creamer or milk. Be careful the next time you crave key lime coffee. While the citrus notes in the blend aren’t going to cause curdling, the two flavors may fight for attention unless additional flavors are added. It is the same concept with lighter roasts. Don’t worry, we have a key lime ice cream that lets citrus and dairy shine together.

DO choose a medium or dark roast that describes earthy, sweet, or nutty flavors. These are flavors baristas typically agree are enhanced with the inclusion of milk.