What is breve coffee?

Breve coffee is a rich and creamy espresso-based beverage that incorporates steamed half-and-half instead of milk. The drink originates from the Italian tradition of making espresso coffee but takes on a distinctively rich and velvety texture due to the use of the creamier dairy product. Here's some more detail about breve coffee:

1. Ingredients:

   • Double shot of espresso.
   • Steamed half-and-half (a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream).

2. Preparation:

   • The espresso is prepared first, typically with an espresso machine.
   • The half-and-half is steamed to achieve a thick and creamy froth.
   • The steamed half-and-half is slowly added over the espresso, creating a smooth, layered effect.

3. Flavor and Texture:

   • Breve coffee is known for its rich and luxurious mouthfeel, thanks to the higher fat content in the half-and-half.
   • It has a natural sweetness that often reduces the need for added sugar or syrups.

4. Serving:

   • The drink is typically served in a larger cup or mug to accommodate the additional volume from the frothy half-and-half.
   • It can be topped with a light dusting of cocoa powder, nutmeg, or cinnamon for added flavor.

5. Caloric Content:

   • Due to the creaminess of the half-and-half, breve coffee tends to have more calories than traditional espresso drinks made with milk.

6. Cultural Variations:

   • While common in North America, a breve is less known in other parts of the world where traditional lattes or cappuccinos are more popular.

Overall, breve coffee offers a decadent twist on the classic espresso drink, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy richer, creamy coffee beverages.