lavender latte with homemade lavender syrup

Yields: 1 latte

Ingredients

1-2 tablespoon lavender syrup (recipe follows)

2 shots espresso

1 cup (240 ml) milk

optional: dried lavender for garnishing

Directions

1. Add the lavender syrup to a mug, and place the mug on the Paderno 20-Bar Espresso Machine warming plate to warm before pulling the espresso shots.

2. Grind the coffee beans, load the portafilter (I used 15-16g of ground coffee for a double shot) and use the tamper to pack the grounds in.  Lock the portafilter in place in the Paderno 20-Bar Espresso Machine.

3. Next, place the milk into the Paderno stainless steel jug, position under the steam wand, and froth the milk to about 150 degrees F (I use my hand on the bottom of the jug to tell - when it is nearly too hot to touch, that’s just right).

4. Now, transfer the warmed mug underneath the locked in portafilter.  Press the double button, and allow to brew (this should take 25-30 seconds when done correctly).  Once the shots are done, carefully pour the frothed milk into the mug.  Garnish with dried lavender if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for latte art: 

• Pour the frothed milk from a high height and slow speed at first to get the milk to “dive under” and mix with the espresso.  Then bring the milk jug closer to the mug and increase pouring speed to help the milk stay on the surface. 

• Practice makes perfect when making latte art!

lavender syrup

Ingredients
1 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 tablespoon culinary grade dried lavender

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water and bring to a boil over high heat.  Boil for 1 minute to dissolve the sugar, then remove from heat.  Add dried lavender while the syrup is still hot, and steep for 5 minutes.  

2. Strain lavender out and transfer the syrup to an airtight container.  Cool uncovered until syrup reaches room temperature, then place the lid on and transfer to the fridge for storage.

Happy latte making!

-Kelsey