Cappuccino from Costa Coffee features rich espresso blended with steamed milk and topped with velvety milk foam, delivering a smooth and creamy coffee experience with a light, frothy texture.
Equipments
- Espresso machine
- Coffee grinder
- Milk steamer/wand
- Milk frothing pitcher
- Tamper
- Coffee scale
- Cups/mugs
Ingredients
- 18g espresso coffee beans
- 150ml whole milk
- 18g espresso coffee beans
- 200ml whole milk
- 18g espresso coffee beans
- 150ml whole milk
Use freshly ground espresso coffee beans totaling 18 grams to achieve an authentic rich flavor essential for Costa Coffee's cappuccino. Whole milk is recommended at 150ml to create the creamy texture and velvety foam characteristic of the drink, while precise steaming with a milk frothing pitcher ensures the smooth, frothy finish. Measuring ingredients accurately with a coffee scale can help you replicate the consistent quality found in Costa Coffee's cappuccino. You can create your own perfect cappuccino by blending these components and steaming the milk to the ideal temperature and texture. Your copycat version will capture the signature smooth and creamy experience with proper technique and quality ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat the espresso machine, cups, and portafilter.
- Weigh 18g espresso coffee beans.
- Grind beans to a fine espresso grind.
- Dose ground coffee into portafilter, level, and tamp evenly.
- Insert portafilter into machine and pull a double espresso shot (about 35–40ml).
- Pour 150ml whole milk into the frothing pitcher.
- Steam milk using wand, stretching for microfoam until temperature reaches ~65°C (149°F).
- Tap and swirl pitcher to integrate foam.
- Pour steamed milk into espresso, holding back the foam.
- Spoon velvety milk foam to top the cappuccino.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
You can create a Cappuccino from Costa Coffee copycat menu by using an espresso machine to pull a double shot of 18g finely ground coffee beans and steaming 150ml whole milk to achieve the ideal creamy texture. If you do not have an espresso machine, a strong brewed coffee or concentrated coffee such as a moka pot extract can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile might differ slightly. A milk frother or a handheld whisk can replace a milk steamer when frothing milk, but be sure to heat the milk gently to avoid burning or scalding. Using a coffee scale helps maintain consistency in coffee-to-milk ratio, ensuring your cup delivers the signature balance of bold espresso and smooth milk. Your choice of cup or mug affects temperature retention and presentation, so opting for a pre-warmed ceramic cup will enhance the overall experience.
Tips
Your coffee grinder should maintain a consistent fine espresso grind to ensure optimal extraction of flavor from the 18g coffee beans. Use a calibrated coffee scale for precise measurement of both coffee grounds and milk, avoiding any imbalance that could affect the taste and texture of your cappuccino. When steaming whole milk, aim for a temperature around 65degC (149degF) to achieve ideal microfoam without scalding, and always tap and swirl the frothing pitcher to remove large bubbles and create a smooth foam. Preheating your espresso machine, cups, and portafilter helps maintain the drink's temperature and enhances the overall coffee experience.
Nutritions
A cappuccino from Costa Coffee provides approximately 120-150 calories, primarily from the 150ml of whole milk, which contributes about 7-8 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein. The espresso shot adds minimal calories but delivers 63 mg of caffeine, offering a mild energy boost. Your drink also contains essential micronutrients such as calcium and vitamin D from the milk. This combination makes a cappuccino a balanced choice for a creamy coffee experience with moderate nutritional value.
Storage
Store fresh whole milk in the refrigerator at or below 4degC (39degF) to maintain its quality and freshness for your cappuccino. Keep espresso coffee beans in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and moisture, at room temperature or in a cool, dark place. Grind the beans just before brewing to preserve optimal flavor and aroma for the best espresso shot.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance your cappuccino by experimenting with alternative milk options like oat or almond milk, which create unique flavors and accommodate dietary preferences. Using a slightly coarser grind or adjusting the dose by 1-2 grams can alter the espresso strength and extraction time for a more customized coffee profile. For milk frothing, try varying the steaming time to achieve different foam densities, ranging from light microfoam to thicker, creamier textures. Adding a sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top can complement the cappuccino's richness without changing the core preparation process.
Allergies
Cappuccino from Costa Coffee contains whole milk, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The espresso coffee beans themselves are generally safe, but cross-contamination during preparation could pose a risk for those with severe allergies. You should always inform the barista about any food allergies to ensure safe handling and avoid potential allergens.
Why this recipe?
Costa Coffee's Cappuccino is beloved for its perfect balance of rich espresso, creamy steamed milk, and a delicate layer of foam that creates a smooth, velvety texture. The carefully crafted flavor profile combines robust coffee notes with subtle sweetness, making it appealing to both casual drinkers and coffee aficionados. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to your taste and enjoy cafe-quality cappuccino at home without the premium price. Your ability to replicate Costa Coffee's signature blend offers convenience and the satisfaction of mastering a popular beverage.