Discover how to froth milk with a handheld frother for creamy lattes, cappuccinos, and more. Follow our step-by-step guide to get barista-quality results at home!
Frothed milk is essential to many tea lattes and espresso based drinks. While the tea is steeping or the coffee is brewing, you can create barista-quality frothed milk without any special equipment. This step-by-step guide will teach you how to froth milk at home with an inexpensive handheld frother.
What is Milk Frothing?
Frothing is the process of incorporating air into milk, creating a light and airy foam. The foam that forms can be used to top off a tea or coffee for a latte or cappuccino. It can also be used for hot chocolate.
Frothing milk can be done a few different ways but using a handheld frother is one of the most convenient and affordable options.
Frothed Milk vs. Steamed Milk
Frothed milk and steamed milk are different from one another. Steaming milk is typically done with a steam wand, not a frother.
Frothed milk creates a thick foam while steamed milk creates more of a microfoam as it has smaller air bubbles and a velvety texture.
What is a Handheld Frother?
A handheld frother is a small, battery-powered device that uses a whisk attachment to froth milk. As the name states, this device is to be held in your hands when using.
Unlike electric frothers, it does not heat milk while frothing so you need to heat your milk before using a handheld frother.
Handheld frothers can range in pricing as there are some with just an on/off butter and others that have buttons for various speeds. Also, handheld frothers can either be equipped with a rechargeable battery with a USB port or require AA batteries.
- Quick to use
- Easy to clean
- Travel friendly
- Compact (It doesn’t take up much counter space like electric frothers or full machines!)
- Super affordable
Handheld Frother Cons
- Learning curve (but I’m here to help!)
How to Froth Milk with A Handheld Frother: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Choose the Right Milk
Different types of milk produce varying foam textures:
- Whole milk creates the creamiest, thickest foam.
- Skim milk froths well but has a lighter texture.
- Almond, oat, and soy milk can froth decently, but make sure they are labeled as “barista” versions for better results.
Step 2: Heat the Milk
For best results, warm your milk before frothing:
- Microwave: Heat for 30-45 seconds until warm but not boiling.
- Stovetop: Use low heat and remove just before boiling.
Step 3: Submerge the Frother and Start Frothing
- Pour the warm milk into a deep cup or frothing pitcher.
- Insert the handheld milk frother just below the surface.
- Turn it on and move it up and down gently for 15-30 seconds until the milk doubles in volume and forms a smooth foam.
Coffee With Milk Froth
Pretty much every one of us is familiar with the names of the most popular milk-based coffee beverages — cappuccino, latte, espresso macchiato… However, encountering somebody who actually knows the difference between these drinks is still a rarity. In fact, all of these recipes are espresso-based. The only difference between them lies in the milk. It’s the quantity and thickness of milk froth that separate these beverages from each other.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy creamy, barista-quality frothed milk in your favorite drinks. Invest in a high-quality handheld frother today and elevate your coffee experience!
If you’re a fan of milk-based coffee drinks and the quality of your milk froth matters to you, make sure to consider all of the nuances discussed in this post when choosing the right coffee machine or milk frothing method for you.
Frequently Asked Question
Yes, but warm milk creates a better foam texture. If using cold milk, choose high-protein options like whole milk or barista-style plant milk.
Froth for about 15-30 seconds, or until the milk has doubled in volume and achieved a smooth, creamy consistency.
Ensure you are using fresh milk and the frother is fully charged or has fresh batteries. Also, avoid overfilling the cup to allow enough space for aeration.
Absolutely! Handheld frothers are great for mixing protein shakes, whipping eggs, blending matcha, and making bulletproof coffee.
Simply run the whisk under warm, soapy water and turn it on briefly. Wipe the handle with a damp cloth and store it in a dry place.