How to Make Cafe au Lait
Cafe au lait is brewed coffee (traditionally French press) with an equal amount of scalded milk - simpler and less intense than a latte, no espresso needed.
Our top pick
French Press
A French press makes the traditional full-bodied coffee base - simple, no paper filter, rich and heavy.
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Editorial note: this guide is compiled from published manufacturer guidance, general best practices, and aggregated owner experience — not hands-on testing. Always follow your machine’s official manual.
Quick comparison
| Pick | Why we like it | |
|---|---|---|
| French Press | A French press makes the traditional full-bodied coffee base - simple, no paper filter, rich and heavy. | View → |
| Milk Pitcher | Scalds the milk on the stove. | View → |
| Milk | Warmed (not foamed) milk. | View → |
French Press
Editor’s PickA French press makes the traditional full-bodied coffee base - simple, no paper filter, rich and heavy.
- + Full
- + Simple
- − Glass
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Scalds the milk on the stove.
- + Simple
- + Cheap
- − Manual
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Warmed (not foamed) milk.
- + Creamy
- + Cheap
- − Dairy
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Buying advice
Brew strong French press coffee, heat milk to just below boil, combine 1:1 in a large bowl or mug. No foam, no espresso.
FAQ
vs latte?
No espresso; equal parts, no foam.
Milk temp?
Hot but not boiled.
Best brew?
French press traditionally.
Ready to start brewing better?
Our top pick for this guide — check today’s price and clip any on-page coupon on Amazon:
French Press
A French press makes the traditional full-bodied coffee base - simple, no paper filter, rich and heavy.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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