Q&A for How to Make Latte Art

It helps to watch YouTube videos and take classes! In-person classes are the best option, because you'll get feedback. It's important to learn about the milk texture, as well as controlling the flow of milk for higher and lower positions.

Use a very solid concentrate like tea! As long as there's a color difference, you can do latte art.

The heart is the easiest shape to make—it only requires basic techniques. Plus, every type of latte art is based on the heart shape.

Yes. Espresso is an emulsion which will give the rich crema that latte art is made with. Instant or drip coffee is an extraction. If you pour steamed milk into either of these, you will not get the definition you need for designs or patterns.

The beans are not necessarily as important as how the espresso beans are ground and pulled into shots. Coffee that produces a robust crema will enhance the drawing surface and make forming latte art easier.

That won't do what you need, which is to heat up the milk. If you try to heat it up beforehand, then it will lose its heat drastically while being blended. It will also incorporate a lot of bubbles! Defeats the purpose, because you'll be tapping the table with the cup of milk to clear the bubbles for ages and it still won't look like a smooth, silky froth. Automatic milk frother is the best bet. Otherwise, the microwave suggestion above may work.

Yes, of course.

You can use any kind of milk. Whole milk is best due to the high content of fat and protein. Almond milk may be a good substitute if whole milk isn't your thing.

You could, but it would clog your steaming nozzle.

If you or someone else wants to drink that, then yes.

Yes, milk frothers are available for sale but you'll need to be able to make velvety microfoam and not big dry bubbles. Avoid simply microwaving and shaking the milk since this will give you bubbles that will just pop.

You won't be able to make latte art in whipped cream. If you'd like to add whipped cream to a latte with art, consider squirting a few peaks of whipped cream to the side of the design.

You'd need a liquid chocolate at the bottom of your cup and smooth, creamy milk that kind of has the texture of melted ice-cream. Before you pour your milk, make sure you hold the foam back as close as you can to the lip of the pitcher. Start pouring close to the lip of the hot cocoa cup and slowly rise your milk pitcher up until you fill up half of the cup. Pour a little faster without holding any foam back as you lower your pitcher down to the lip of your cup. I usually end up with a monk's head, but tweak your technique to get different, albeit similar, designs.

No. Only methods such as using a steam wand will create steam good enough for latte art.

Yes, all espresso blends can make latte art. The only thing you need to add is milk.