What’s the Difference Between Breve vs Latte?

When it comes to coffee, many people like to live in their comfort zone. A smooth latte or breve is luxurious enough - why think outside of the bag? But venturing out into uncharted territory can be pretty fun. There are plenty of chances to shake things up when it comes to coffee shop drinks. today let's talk about two delicious drinks: the breve and latte.
Latte Vs. Breve Illustration

The fundamental distinction between a Breve and a latte may be traced back to the kind of milk that is used in the preparation procedure.

In place of milk in the traditional Italian latte, half-and-half is used to make the American beverage known as the Breve.

Because of this, the texture, flavor, and calorie content are all altered.

Breve

Latte

Served hot

Served hot

1/4 espresso

1/2 steamed half and half

1/4 half and half froth

1/4 espresso

3/4 steamed whole milk

Topped with milk froth

Flavor Profile:

Creamy

Stronger coffee flavor

Slight hint of caramel

Flavor Profile:

Milky

Less coffee flavor

Lightly sweet

Lighter in color. Half & half foam head is thicker.

Thinner layer of foam on the top. Homogenous color of espresso with milk.

High fat content and high calories.

High amount of calories.

Composition

The most notable distinction between the two beverages is that the Breve is made with half-and-half rather than milk.

This is the drink’s defining characteristic. It is made up of one-fourth espresso, one-half steamed half-and-half, and one-fourth frothed half-and-half.

The latte is made with a quarter shot of espresso, three quarters of steamed whole milk, and foamed milk on top.

Taste

The addition of half-and-half lends a velvety texture to the Breve, and the fact that some of the sugars in the milk are caramelized as a result of the steaming process.

In addition to that, the flavor of the coffee is much stronger.

Because it contains so much milk, the latte has a milky flavor and a touch of sweetness. The flavor is barely reminiscent of coffee at all.

Appearance

It’s simple to spot a Breve because the cream and espresso are separated by distinct layers created by the thickness of the half-and-half. It is light and resembles a dry cappuccino more than anything else.

Calories

When it comes to having a higher total number of calories, the Breve is without a doubt the best option.

A Breve has roughly three times as many calories as a regular latte. Up to 12 percent of the calories in the half and half originate from its fat content, which is where the majority of the calories are found.

To put that into perspective, the whole milk that is used to make lattes only has 3.5 percent fat.

12 oz Breve

  • Calories : 420 cals
  • Fat: 36 grams
  • Carbs: 15 grams

12 oz Latte

  • Calories : 150 cals
  • Fat: 6 grams
  • Carbs: 15 grams

What is a Breve?

A hot beverage made with espresso and half-and-half rather than milk is known as a Breve. This beverage is a spin-off of the traditional latte.

It is made with one to two shots of espresso and steamed half-and-half, depending on how strong you like your coffee.

The addition of half and half, which is a mixture of whole milk and cream with a fat level ranging from 10 to 12 percent, imparts a creamier and more substantial quality to the Breve.

How do you pronounce Breve?

You may be curious about the proper pronunciation of the term “breve,” given that it is of Italian origin.

Pronounce it “brev-ay” and you won’t have to worry about embarrassing yourself in front of your barista.

Be careful not to get confused; you may also hear it referred to as Breve Latte or Cafe Breve.

What is a Latte?

A latte is a type of espresso-based beverage that is often made with steamed milk and espresso.

It can be made with any kind of milk, from plant-based milk to whole milk. Whole milk is not required.

The traditional preparation is for one or two shots of espresso and your preferred type of steamed milk. It is often served with frothed milk and decorative latte art on top.

How Do You Make A Breve?

The term “breve” means “brief,” or “short,” in Portuguese, and refers to the fact that this beverage is made with only one shot of espresso instead of two.

The milk is added to cut down on the bitterness often associated with espresso.

1. Put the cream into a microwave-safe measuring cup of one cup’s capacity.

Warm the milk in the microwave on high for one minute, uncovered, or until there are little bubbles forming around the edge of the cup.

2. Put a metal whisk in the cup, and whisk it furiously while holding the whisk handle loosely between your palms and rubbing your hands back and forth swiftly.

When foam begins to develop, transfer it to a small measuring cup. Continue whisking until the foam reaches a measurement of a third of a cup, then set it aside.

3. The Easy Espresso should be poured into the cup, and then the remaining hot cream should be added.

The foam should be poured over the top, and the beverage should then be served.

Is a breve or latte healthier?

Breves are higher in cholesterol because they contain half-and-half. For this reason, they are unhealthy as well. You can order a “skinny” latte and add sugar-free Splenda or skim milk to make it healthier.

Why is it called breve?

The word “breve” has its origins in Italian. A “breve” can be short, brief, or short-and-sweet, which is kind of like how it is. Breves are also referred to as breve coffee, breve coffee or latte breves.

Is breve good?

Breves have a creamy texture and sweet taste that makes them popular with people who like to enjoy their coffee with milk or cream. The name comes from the word “brioche” because of its consistency — it’s similar to eating a brioche roll for breakfast!

Conclusion

The use of half-and-half in place of milk is the primary distinction between a breve and a latte. Because it contains half-and-half, the Breve has a texture that is more creamy, a taste that is more rich and sweet, but it still maintains the robust flavor of coffee.

The classic combination of milk and espresso, the latte is prepared with whole milk as the milk component. It has a less creamy texture, a more uniform appearance, and fewer calories than the original.

coffee types

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Picture of Nicola R.

Nicola R.

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