Quick answer: a breve (caffè breve) is espresso topped with steamed half-and-half instead of milk. It is an American take on the latte: richer, creamier and thicker, with a dense foam. Ask for any espresso drink “breve” and it is made with half-and-half.
Breve vs latte vs cappuccino
| Drink | Dairy | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Latte | Steamed milk, thin layer of foam | Smooth and milky |
| Cappuccino | Steamed milk with a thick layer of foam | Light and foamy |
| Breve | Steamed half-and-half | Rich, creamy, dense foam |
| Flat white | Steamed milk, very thin microfoam | Strong and velvety |
Why half-and-half changes the drink
Half-and-half has 10.5% to under 18% milkfat, against about 3.25% for whole milk. The extra fat gives a breve its body and a foam that is thicker and less airy than milk foam. See heavy cream vs half-and-half for how the creams compare.
How to make a breve at home
- 1 or 2 shots of espresso (30-60 ml), or ¼ cup of very strong coffee
- ½ to ¾ cup (120-180 ml) half-and-half
- Pull the espresso into a warm cup.
- Steam the half-and-half with an espresso machine wand until hot and lightly foamy, about 150°F. Without a machine, heat it gently in a saucepan or microwave and whisk or froth it; do not boil.
- Pour the steamed half-and-half over the espresso, holding back the foam, then spoon the foam on top.
Iced breve
Pour espresso over ice and top with cold half-and-half. For a foam cap, froth a little half-and-half with a handheld frother first; see how to make cold foam.
Variations
- Flavored: add vanilla, caramel or hazelnut syrup.
- Mocha breve: stir chocolate sauce into the espresso first.
- Lighter: use half milk and half half-and-half.
- Extra rich: finish with whipped cream.
No half-and-half? See half-and-half substitutes. More cream coffees: heavy cream in coffee and espresso con panna.
Frequently asked questions
What is a breve?
An espresso drink made with steamed half-and-half instead of milk. Its full name is caffè breve. It is richer and creamier than a latte.
What is the difference between a breve and a latte?
Only the dairy. A latte uses steamed milk; a breve uses steamed half-and-half, which has about three to five times the fat of whole milk.
Can I make a breve with heavy cream?
You can, but it is very rich. Half-and-half is the standard; some people mix heavy cream and milk to get the same effect.
Is a breve sweet?
It has no added sugar, but the extra milkfat makes it taste rounder and slightly sweeter than a latte.
