Steamed Milk vs Foamed Milk: Key Differences | Liquidline Ireland

Steamed Milk vs Foamed Milk: Understanding The Key Differences

The Key Differences of Steamed Milk vs Foamed Milk

Milk is a key ingredient in many coffee drinks, and the way it’s prepared plays a crucial role in the flavour of the final cup. For baristas and coffee enthusiasts knowing the difference between steamed milk and foamed milk is essential in creating a perfect espresso-based beverage, whether it’s a latte, cappuccino, or even a sweet treat like a hot chocolate. Both methods of steaming and frothing milk will enhance the texture and flavour of coffee, but they require different techniques and produce distinct results. But what are the key differences between steamed milk and foamed milk and how are they used in popular coffee drinks?

Steamed Milk: What is it and How is it Different?

Steamed milk is much heavier than foamed milk, and is created as a result of the milk coming into contact with the steam wand on an espresso machine. When milk is exposed to steam, the fats in the milk begin to break down, causing it to expand and form tiny bubbles known as microfoam or microbubbles. This results in a silky, smooth texture, making steamed milk an excellent choice for drinks like lattes and flat whites.

Steamed milk provides a creamy consistency that balances out the strong flavours of espresso. The tiny bubbles in microfoam give the milk a velvety finish, which is particularly important for latte art and creating that indulgent, luxurious mouthfeel experience.

What Makes Steamed Milk Unique?

Foamed Milk: What is it and How is it Different?

Foamed milk (also known as frothed milk) is airier and lighter than steamed milk and is created by introducing more air into the milk through the steam wand. The wand is kept near the surface of the milk, allowing more air to be incorporated and forming larger bubbles. This produces a drier foam texture in the milk that is less watery than steamed milk, making it perfect for drinks like cappuccinos and macchiatos.

Foamed milk holds its shape very well, which is why it’s ideal for topping off drinks. The light and airy foam spreads easily and creates a beautiful visual contrast on top of espresso-based drinks.

What Makes Foamed Milk Unique?

How To Steam Milk Using an Espresso Machine

Steaming milk is a skill that requires practice, but having the right equipment can make this process much easier. An espresso machine with a steam wand is the ideal tool for creating perfectly steamed milk. Here’s how to steam milk properly:

Top Tips for Steaming Milk:

How To Foam Milk Using an Espresso Machine

Foaming milk, while similar to the previous method, requires a slightly different technique. The steam wand needs to be positioned closer to the surface of the milk to introduce more air, stretching the milk and expanding its volume. Here’s how to foam milk properly:

Top Tips for Foaming Milk:

Beverages That Can Be Made Using Steamed Milk

Steamed milk is enjoyed in a range of espresso-based drinks as it’s perfect for adding that creamy texture to balance the aromatic flavours of espresso. Some of the most popular drinks made with steamed milk include:

Steamed milk is best suited for drinks that require a smooth, rich consistency and are usually enjoyed hot.

Popular Drinks Made Using Foamed Milk

Foamed milk is perfect for adding a light, airy texture to milk-based beverages. Some of the most popular drinks that are made using foamed milk include:

The versatility of foamed milk makes it an excellent addition to a wide range of drinks, both hot and cold.

When trying out the popular drinks made with either steamed or foamed milk, it’s important to know which coffee to pair each with and at what time of day. For some additional helpful tips check out our guide on the best coffee choices for every time of day.

Making The Right Type of Milk

Understanding the differences between steamed milk and foamed milk is essential for anyone looking to master their coffee-making skills. Both techniques require practice, precision and the right equipment, using the steam wand on a commercial espresso machine, will make all the difference.

While learning the correct way to froth and steam milk is important in delivering great-tasting coffee cup after cup, maintaining the quality of your machine is equally essential. Make sure you check out our guide on how to descale an espresso machine to keep all elements of your service at a high standard and in top condition.

If you’re looking to WOW your team and customers with a premium coffee experience using the latest coffee machine technology, contact Liquidline today. We create tailored coffee solutions to suit your business needs and offer a custom quote. Reach out now and let us help you deliver exceptional coffee experiences.