For coffee lovers, there’s nothing quite like a rich shot of espresso to get the day started. However, as the temperatures rise, many of us find ourselves craving a cooler, more refreshing take on this classic drink. That’s where espresso with cold milk comes in – a delicious and revitalizing beverage that’s perfect for warm weather. But have you ever wondered what this drink is actually called?
A Brief History of Espresso and Cold Milk
Before we dive into the name of this drink, let’s take a brief look at its history. Espresso, which originated in Italy in the late 19th century, was traditionally served as a shot on its own or with a small amount of sugar. However, as coffee culture spread throughout the world, people began experimenting with different ways to enjoy their espresso.
One of the earliest recorded instances of espresso being served with cold milk was in the 1950s and 1960s, when Italian coffee shops began offering a drink called “caffè latte freddo.” This drink, which consisted of espresso, cold milk, and ice, was a refreshing twist on the traditional latte and quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike.
The Name: Iced Latte or Espresso Con Leche?
So, what is espresso with cold milk actually called? The answer to this question can vary depending on where you are in the world and the specific coffee shop or cafe you’re visiting.
In the United States, this drink is often referred to as an iced latte. This name makes sense, given that it’s essentially a latte served over ice. However, some coffee purists argue that the term “latte” should only be used to describe a drink made with steamed milk, rather than cold milk.
In other parts of the world, such as Europe and Latin America, this drink is often called espresso con leche. This name, which translates to “espresso with milk” in Spanish, is a more general term that can refer to any type of espresso drink made with milk, regardless of the temperature.
Regional Variations
As with any popular drink, there are many regional variations of espresso with cold milk. Here are a few examples:
- In Italy, this drink is often called caffè latte freddo, as mentioned earlier.
- In Spain, it’s known as café con leche con hielo, which translates to “coffee with milk and ice.”
- In Australia and New Zealand, this drink is often referred to as a flat white, although this term typically refers to a specific type of coffee drink made with steamed milk and a higher ratio of coffee to milk.
How to Order Espresso with Cold Milk
If you’re looking to try espresso with cold milk, here are a few tips for ordering:
- If you’re in the United States, you can simply ask for an iced latte.
- If you’re in Europe or Latin America, you can ask for an espresso con leche or a café con leche con hielo.
- If you want to get specific, you can ask for a shot of espresso served over ice with cold milk. This will ensure that you get exactly what you’re looking for.
Customizing Your Drink
One of the best things about espresso with cold milk is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ways to modify your drink:
- Add flavorings: Many coffee shops offer flavorings such as vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel that can be added to your drink.
- Change the type of milk: If you’re lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy milk, you can ask for almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk instead of traditional milk.
- Add a sweetener: If you prefer your drink sweet, you can ask for sugar, honey, or syrup to be added.
The Benefits of Espresso with Cold Milk
Espresso with cold milk is not only delicious, but it also offers several benefits. Here are a few:
- Refreshing and thirst-quenching: This drink is perfect for hot summer days when you need something to cool you down.
- Boosts energy: The caffeine in the espresso can help to increase alertness and energy.
- Can be low-calorie: If you use a non-dairy milk and minimal sweetener, this drink can be a relatively low-calorie option.
Nutrition Information
Here is the approximate nutrition information for a typical iced latte made with espresso, cold milk, and ice:
| Nutrition Information | Amount |
| — | — |
| Calories | 120-150 |
| Fat | 3-4g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25g |
| Protein | 5-6g |
| Caffeine | 60-80mg |
Conclusion
Espresso with cold milk is a delicious and refreshing drink that’s perfect for warm weather. Whether you call it an iced latte, espresso con leche, or something else entirely, this drink is sure to hit the spot. By understanding the history and variations of this drink, as well as how to order and customize it, you can enjoy the perfect cup every time.
What is the name of the espresso drink with cold milk?
The name of the espresso drink with cold milk is Iced Latte or Iced Macchiato, but more specifically, it is known as an Iced Espresso Macchiato or an Iced Espresso Con Panna when topped with a dollop of whipped cream. However, the most popular name for this drink is Iced Latte.
The Iced Latte is a variation of the traditional latte, which consists of espresso and steamed milk. The cold version is made by pouring espresso over cold milk, which is usually served over ice. The drink can be customized with various flavors and toppings, such as vanilla or hazelnut syrup, and whipped cream.
How is an Iced Latte different from a hot latte?
An Iced Latte is different from a hot latte in terms of temperature and texture. A hot latte is made with steamed milk, which is heated to a high temperature, whereas an Iced Latte is made with cold milk. The cold milk gives the drink a smoother and more refreshing texture.
In addition to the temperature difference, the flavor profile of an Iced Latte is also distinct from a hot latte. The cold milk helps to balance out the bitterness of the espresso, creating a more balanced and refreshing flavor. Some people prefer the taste of Iced Lattes over hot lattes, especially during the summer months.
Can I customize my Iced Latte with different flavors?
Yes, you can customize your Iced Latte with different flavors. Many coffee shops offer a variety of flavorings, such as vanilla, hazelnut, and caramel, that can be added to the drink. You can also ask for a flavored syrup, such as peppermint or pumpkin spice, to be added to the drink.
In addition to flavorings, you can also customize the type of milk used in your Iced Latte. Some coffee shops offer non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond milk or soy milk, for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy option. You can also ask for whipped cream or extra foam to be added to the drink.
How do I make an Iced Latte at home?
To make an Iced Latte at home, you will need a few basic ingredients, including espresso, cold milk, and ice. You can use a manual or automatic espresso machine to make the espresso, or you can use strong brewed coffee as a substitute. Simply pour the espresso over the cold milk, and add ice to the drink.
You can also customize your Iced Latte at home by adding flavorings or sweeteners to the drink. Try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the drink for added flavor. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as almond milk or coconut milk, to create a unique flavor profile.
Is an Iced Latte a healthy drink option?
An Iced Latte can be a healthy drink option, depending on the ingredients used. If you use low-fat milk and minimal added flavorings, the drink can be a relatively low-calorie option. However, if you add a lot of sugar or whipped cream to the drink, the calorie count can quickly add up.
To make a healthier Iced Latte, try using non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond milk or coconut milk, and minimal added flavorings. You can also ask for a “skinny” Iced Latte, which is made with non-fat milk and no added flavorings.
Can I order an Iced Latte at any coffee shop?
Most coffee shops offer Iced Lattes on their menus, but the availability of the drink may vary depending on the shop. Some coffee shops may offer a variation of the drink, such as an Iced Macchiato or an Iced Cappuccino, but not a traditional Iced Latte.
If you’re unsure whether a coffee shop offers Iced Lattes, you can always ask the barista. They can let you know if the drink is available and can also offer suggestions for customizing the drink to your taste.
How much does an Iced Latte typically cost?
The cost of an Iced Latte can vary depending on the coffee shop and location. On average, an Iced Latte can cost anywhere from $3 to $6, depending on the size and type of milk used.
Some coffee shops may offer discounts or promotions for Iced Lattes, especially during the summer months. You can also ask for a loyalty card or rewards program to save money on your Iced Latte purchases.