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 reflects our home barista experience, manufacturer specifications, and aggregated owner feedback. We test gear at home, update recommendations regularly, and link to official manuals where relevant.
Cafe au lait vs latte - what is the difference
A cafe au lait is equal parts brewed coffee (French press or drip) and steamed milk. A latte uses espresso and steamed milk (1:3 ratio). The key difference: cafe au lait uses regular coffee, not espresso. It is milder, larger, and less intense than a latte - a French breakfast drink.
To make it at home: brew a strong cup of French press or drip coffee (double strength), heat 6-8 oz of milk to 150F (steamed, not boiled), and combine 1:1. No machine needed - a saucepan and whisk work. Cafe au lait is traditionally served in a bowl, not a cup, and paired with buttery pastries. It is also the base for decaf drinks in French households.
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.
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French Press
A French press makes the traditional full-bodied coffee base - simple, no paper filter, rich and heavy.
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