The Café au Lait, French for “coffee with milk,” is a classic drink that embodies simplicity, balance, and comfort. While it’s often confused with the latte, the café au lait has its own charm—offering a strong brewed coffee base mixed with hot milk, no espresso required.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy morning ritual or a refined take on milk coffee, this guide will teach you how to make a café au lait like a true barista—right from your own kitchen.
What Is a Café au Lait?
A Café au Lait is traditionally made with:
- Strong brewed coffee (typically from a French press or drip machine)
- Steamed milk (not frothed) in roughly equal parts
It’s a staple of French breakfast culture, often served alongside pastries or a baguette with butter and jam.
Unlike a latte (which uses espresso and more foam), the café au lait is:
- Milder in texture
- Simpler in preparation
- Balanced in flavor, with equal parts coffee and milk
Café au Lait vs. Latte: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Café au Lait | Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Coffee base | Strong brewed coffee | Espresso |
| Milk texture | Steamed milk (no foam) | Steamed milk + foam layer |
| Equipment needed | Coffee maker or French press | Espresso machine |
| Flavor profile | Smooth and comforting | Creamy and slightly bolder |
| Serving tradition | France (breakfast staple) | Italy/U.S. (all-day café drink) |
What You’ll Need
To make a café au lait at home, gather:
- Strong coffee (French press, moka pot, or drip)
- Whole milk (or milk alternative like oat, soy, or almond)
- Small saucepan or milk frother
- Large mug or wide coffee bowl
- Optional: sweetener or cinnamon
Recommended Ratio:
1:1 coffee to milk
(Adjust to taste—some prefer 2:1 for stronger flavor)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Café au Lait
Step 1: Brew Your Coffee
Use a method that creates strong, full-bodied coffee:
- French Press: 1:15 ratio, steep for 4–5 minutes
- Moka Pot: Produces rich, espresso-style base
- Drip Machine: Use slightly more coffee than usual for strength
Aim for about 120–180ml (4–6 oz) of brewed coffee per serving.
Step 2: Heat the Milk
- Use whole milk for creaminess, or your preferred dairy-free option
- Heat in a saucepan over medium heat until just before boiling
- Stir gently to avoid scalding
- Ideal temp: 60–65°C (140–149°F)
- Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla while heating for extra depth
Do not froth the milk—the café au lait should have a smooth, still surface.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Pour your brewed coffee into a wide mug or cup
- Slowly add the hot milk, aiming for a gentle blend
- Stir once, taste, and adjust sweetness or milk to your liking
Optional Touches:
- Sprinkle cocoa powder or cinnamon on top
- Serve with a croissant, tartine, or biscotti
- Use a bowl-shaped cup for a more authentic French café vibe
Variations and Regional Twists
- New Orleans Café au Lait: Made with chicory coffee and hot milk, popular in Louisiana
- Spanish Café con Leche: Similar drink, but often made with espresso instead of drip
- Viennese Milk Coffee: Uses light roast and heavy cream for a richer version
Tips for the Perfect Café au Lait
- Use freshly ground coffee for better flavor
- Avoid boiling the milk, which changes its sweetness and texture
- Taste before adding sugar—milk may bring enough sweetness
- Preheat your mug or bowl to keep the drink warm longer
- Use high-fat milk for a smoother mouthfeel
Best Beans for Café au Lait
This drink works well with:
- Medium to dark roasts
- Beans with notes of chocolate, nuts, or caramel
- Brazilian, Colombian, or Guatemalan coffees
Avoid overly acidic or fruity beans—they may clash with the creaminess of milk.
Final Thoughts: French Simplicity in a Mug
The Café au Lait is proof that elegance doesn’t have to be complicated. With just two ingredients—good coffee and warm milk—you can create a drink that’s soothing, balanced, and effortlessly satisfying.
So skip the espresso machine, grab your favorite mug, and enjoy a little French charm in every sip.