Have you ever wondered about this thing called a Breve coffee? Prepare to sip and learn because we’re about to spill the beans! So, what is a Breve coffee? It’s like a special coffee treat that’s super creamy and flavorful.
Imagine this: a smooth and rich espresso drink with extra creamy milk. That’s a Breve coffee! In this guide, we’ll take you on a tasty adventure to discover this amazing beverage’s ins and outs.
Without further ado, let’s dive into more details!
Table of Contents
What Is A Breve?

Breve coffee is a delightful and indulgent beverage that combines the boldness of espresso with the creaminess of half and half. You may have also heard it called cafe breve or breve latte.
Breve coffee is an Americanized version of the Italian latte but with a twist. It takes the concept of a latte and makes it even richer and creamier, elevating your coffee experience to new heights.
The Italian word “Breve” translates to “short” in English, referring to the specific volume of the drink. When you order a Breve coffee, you’ll be treated to a harmonious blend of equal parts espresso and half and half.
This means you get the intense flavors of a double shot of espresso combined with the velvety smoothness of 2 ounces of half and half.
The result? A truly satisfying and luxurious coffee experience. The richness of the espresso pairs beautifully with the creamy half and half, creating an indulgent, comforting, and oh-so-delicious flavor profile. Each sip is like a moment of pure coffee bliss.
Breve Vs. Latte: The Differences
There are some notable differences between the two. Let’s explore how Breve coffee sets itself apart from a traditional latte:
Milk Ratios and Texture
In a Breve coffee, half and half (a blend of milk and cream) is used, resulting in a higher fat content and a creamier texture than a latte.
On the other hand, a latte typically uses steamed or frothed milk, which results in a lighter and more foamy texture.
Flavor Profiles
A Breve coffee offers a richer and more pronounced taste due to the use of half and half. The creaminess of the milk enhances the natural flavors of the espresso, creating a decadent and indulgent experience.
In contrast, a latte tends to have a milder flavor profile and smoother mouthfeel. The focus is more on the espresso’s subtle nuances, balanced by the sweetness of steamed milk.
Visual Appearance
When you compare the visual presentation, a Breve coffee often appears darker and creamier due to the higher fat content in the half and half.
On the other hand, a latte typically showcases a layer of creamy foam on top, adding a touch of elegance to its appearance.
While both Breve coffee and latte share the foundation of espresso and milk, the choice between them boils down to your preference for texture, flavor, and richness. A Breve coffee might be your go-to choice for a more indulgent and velvety experience.
See the comparison of Breve and Mocha.
How to make a Breve coffee at home
Making a delicious Breve coffee right in your home is easier. Follow these simple steps to create your own creamy and indulgent Breve:
Gather Your Ingredients:
- Freshly roasted coffee beans
- Espresso machine or moka pot
- Half and half (or a mixture of equal parts whole milk and light cream)
Prepare Your Espresso:
- Grind your coffee beans to a fine consistency.
- If using an espresso machine, follow the machine’s instructions to make a double shot of espresso.
- If using a moka pot, fill the bottom chamber with water, add the ground coffee to the filter basket, assemble the pot, and place it on the stove over medium heat until the coffee begins to brew.
Steam or Froth the Half and Half:
- Pour the desired amount of half and half into a small pitcher.
- If using an espresso machine with a steam wand, immerse the wand just below the surface of the half-and-half and turn on the steam.
- Move the pitcher in a circular motion to distribute the heat and create a creamy texture evenly. Be careful not to overheat the half-and-half.
- If you don’t have a steam wand, heat the half-and-half on the stovetop in a small saucepan and use a handheld frother to create a frothy texture.
Combine the Espresso and Half and Half:
- Pour the freshly brewed espresso into a mug.
- Slowly pour the steamed or frothed half and half into the mug, allowing it to mix with the espresso.
- The ideal ratio is equal parts espresso and half and half, but you can adjust it to your taste preference.
- Enjoy!
Watch the video to understand the process of making a Breve better:
FAQs
Is A Breve Like A Latte?
A Breve coffee is similar to a latte but has some key differences. While both drinks contain espresso and milk, a Breve uses half and half (a combination of milk and cream) instead of regular milk. This makes a Breve creamier and richer in flavor than a traditional latte.
Does A Breve Have Caffeine?
Yes, a Breve coffee contains caffeine because it is made with espresso. The caffeine content in a Breve coffee will depend on the amount and strength of the espresso used.
Is A Breve Coffee Keto?
A traditional Breve coffee, made with half and half, contains some carbohydrates due to the natural sugars in milk. Therefore, it may not be considered strictly keto-friendly.
However, you can make modifications by using alternative milk options, such as unsweetened almond or coconut milk, which have fewer carbs and can be more suitable for a keto diet.
How Much Espresso Is In A Breve?
The milk is gently steamed to a warm temperature, resulting in a velvety texture with minimal froth. Served in a compact 4.5 oz cup, a Cortado embodies the ideal balance of espresso and milk, offering a robust and silky-smooth drink. Similarly, a Breve follows the same 1:1 ratio of espresso to half-and-half, ensuring a creamy and indulgent coffee experience.
Is Breve Good For You?
Like any indulgent beverage, Breve coffee should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. It contains higher fat content due to half and half, which can contribute to increased calorie intake. It’s important to be mindful of your overall dietary goals and consider alternatives if you want a lower-calorie or lighter coffee choice.
More Coffee Guides
If you like to learn more about coffee, check out our other articles below: