What is Breve Coffee: A Rich and Creamy American Classic

A breve coffee, also known as a “caffè breve” or “breve latte,” is an American adaptation of the classic Italian caffè latte. While a traditional latte is made with espresso and steamed milk, the key difference in a breve is the use of half-and-half (a mixture of half whole milk and half heavy cream) instead of regular milk. This single substitution makes the breve a much richer, creamier, and more decadent beverage with a naturally sweeter flavor and a thicker, fluffier foam layer on top.

The name “breve” comes from the Italian word for “short,” though the drink itself isn’t necessarily small. The term is thought to refer to the “shortening” of the milk with cream, which results in a drink that is more dense and flavorful.

Breve vs. Latte: The Main Differences

While they are both espresso-based drinks, the distinction between a breve and a latte lies in their core ingredients and the resulting characteristics. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right drink for your taste and preference.

Dairy Content: This is the most significant difference. A latte uses steamed milk (whole, 2%, skim, etc.), while a breve uses steamed half-and-half. The higher fat content of the half-and-half gives the breve its signature rich and creamy texture.
Taste and Texture: A latte is known for its smooth, milky, and mild flavor profile. A breve, on the other hand, is much more velvety and rich, with a natural sweetness from the cream that often eliminates the need for added sugar or syrup. The foam on a breve is also denser and more stable than the lighter froth on a latte.
Foam Layer: The high fat content in half-and-half creates a thicker and more substantial foam when steamed. This results in a foam that is closer in texture to a cappuccino, whereas a latte typically has a very thin layer of microfoam.
Calories and Fat: Due to the cream content, a breve has a significantly higher calorie and fat count than a standard latte. For those who are calorie-conscious, a latte is often the preferred choice.
Origin: The caffè latte is a classic Italian invention. The caffè breve, however, is a distinctly American creation, inspired by the latte but catering to a preference for a richer, creamier beverage.

How to Make Breve Coffee at Home

Making a breve coffee at home is a simple process that requires only two main ingredients and a few basic tools. The key is to properly steam the half-and-half to achieve that signature creamy texture.

Ingredients:

1 or 2 shots of fresh espresso (about 2 ounces)
Steamed half-and-half (about 2-4 ounces, depending on your desired strength)

Equipment:

Espresso machine or another method for brewing strong coffee (Moka pot, AeroPress, etc.)
Milk steamer or frother (a steam wand on an espresso machine, a handheld frother, or even a whisk can work)
Mug or cup

Instructions:

Brew the Espresso: Pull a single or double shot of espresso into your mug. For the best flavor, use high-quality, freshly ground beans.
Steam the Half-and-Half: Pour the half-and-half into a frothing pitcher. Steam the half-and-half using a steam wand until it is hot and has a creamy, velvety texture. Be careful not to overheat it, as the high fat content can cause it to curdle. If you don’t have a steam wand, you can heat the half-and-half on a stovetop and froth it with a whisk or a handheld frother.
Combine and Serve: Gently pour the steamed half-and-half over the espresso shot. The dense, creamy foam will rise to the top. Serve immediately to enjoy the rich, full-bodied flavor. You can also customize your breve with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top.