Café con leche (literally coffee with milk in Spanish) is a coffee beverage common throughout Spain and Latin America consisting of strong coffee (usually espresso) mixed with scalded milk in approximately equal amounts. The amount of milk can be higher in a café con leche en vaso or a café con leche de desayuno. Cuban and Puerto Rican establishments often prepare the drink with sugar. Sugar or sweetener is added to taste. It is similar to the Italian caffè latte and the French café au lait.

Origin

Café con leche came from Spain, but its exact origin is unclear. After becoming popular in Spain, this coffee beverage has spread to other Spanish-speaking countries and areas. Café con leche is very common in Spain and Latin America, as well as diasporic Latin American communities around the world. Cuban restaurants in South Florida often have a walk-up window (ventanita) that serve café con leche.

Current use

Café con leche is considered a breakfast drink in many countries that serve it. Because of the milk, it is heavier and more filling than coffee drinks. The drink is created by making espresso and then using a steam wand scalding milk to just below the boiling point. Often sugar is added to the milk as it is being heated. The warmed milk is then poured over the espresso and stirred.

Serving styles

Prepared café con leche

Café con leche coffee pods, instant coffee, and canned coffee are available.