Cafe Au Lait(France)
A classic French cafe au lait features rich, robust coffee combined with steamed milk, creating a smooth, comforting beverage perfect for leisurely mornings or brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make coffee using 6 heaping tablespoons of coffee grounds.
- Heat 10 cups of milk to scalding temperature.
- Pour equal amounts of hot coffee and hot milk into serving cups at the same time.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly ground coffee beans. You can also adjust the ratio of coffee to milk based on your preference; if you like it stronger, add more coffee. Whole milk provides a creamier texture, but you can substitute with any dairy or non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. For a twist, try adding a splash of flavored syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cafe Au Lait in large mugs for a cozy experience. It pairs beautifully with pastries or light breakfast items like croissants or scones. You can also enjoy it alongside a slice of Date Treasure Cake for a sweet complement. Garnish with whipped cream or a dusting of cocoa powder for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Cafe Au Lait is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth texture. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling the milk.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cafe Au Lait(France) contains roughly 943 calories, with 15g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (69% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 685mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use decaffeinated coffee for this recipe?
Absolutely! Decaffeinated coffee works perfectly in Cafe Au Lait, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavor without the caffeine. Just make sure to brew it strong enough to balance the milk. The same proportions apply, so adjust to your taste.
What type of coffee works best for Cafe Au Lait?
A medium to dark roast coffee is ideal for Cafe Au Lait, as it provides a robust flavor that holds up well against the milk. French roast or espresso blends are excellent choices. Experiment with different coffee blends to find your favorite combination.
Can I make Cafe Au Lait in larger batches for a crowd?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up for gatherings. Just maintain the same ratio of coffee to milk, and keep the brewing method consistent. Use a large coffee maker or French press, and heat the milk in a pot or large saucepan to serve multiple cups at once.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).