The Caffè Breve: A Rich American Original
The term for a coffee with half-and-half is a caffè breve, or simply a breve. This indulgent American-style espresso drink stands apart from its Italian cousins like the latte by swapping out regular milk for steamed half-and-half, a blend of milk and cream. The resulting beverage is exceptionally rich, creamy, and possesses a natural sweetness that many find more satisfying than a standard milky coffee. Its name, derived from the Italian word for “short,” hints at its smaller, more potent serving size compared to a large latte.
Origins and Evolution of the Breve
The caffè breve is a distinctly American creation, though it borrows heavily from the Italian coffee tradition. While half-and-half was invented in the United States in the 1920s, it only became a popular, widely available dairy product by the late 1960s and 1970s. The emergence of the term "breve" for this espresso and half-and-half concoction coincided with the specialty coffee boom in America during the 1990s. Major coffee chains later popularized the term, offering a "breve" option for almost any espresso-based drink, cementing its place in modern coffee culture. Today, the breve is celebrated for its luxurious mouthfeel and decadent flavor profile.
Breve vs. Latte: A Crucial Distinction
Understanding the difference between a breve and a latte is key to appreciating their unique qualities. The main distinction is the dairy used.
| Feature | Breve Coffee | Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy | Steamed half-and-half (half milk, half cream) | Steamed milk (often whole or 2%) |
| Texture | Incredibly rich, thick, and velvety due to higher fat content | Creamy but lighter and less viscous |
| Sweetness | Naturally sweeter from the cream; often needs less added sugar | Less naturally sweet; often requires additional sweeteners |
| Flavor | A luxurious blend that softens the espresso's intensity | Balances the espresso without overpowering it |
| Calories | Higher due to the cream's fat content | Lower, depending on the milk type |
How to Make a Perfect Breve
Making a cafe-quality breve at home is surprisingly straightforward. You will need: a double shot of espresso, chilled half-and-half, and a steam wand or frother. Follow these steps for the perfect, velvety breve:
- Prepare your espresso: Pull a double shot of fresh espresso using your preferred beans. The roast can be medium to dark, as it needs to stand up to the richness of the half-and-half.
- Steam the half-and-half: Pour cold half-and-half into a metal steaming pitcher. Steam it until it reaches approximately 150°F (65°C), creating a thick, velvety microfoam. The fat content in the half-and-half will create a much glossier and denser foam than milk.
- Combine and serve: Pour the steamed half-and-half over the espresso. For an authentic presentation, hold back the foam with a spoon and then top the drink with a layer of microfoam. You can also experiment with latte art, as the creamy texture holds the design well.
Other Coffee Drinks with Half-and-Half
While the breve is the most prominent example, there are other ways to enjoy coffee with half-and-half. At many coffee shops, simply ordering a drink "breve style" indicates that you want half-and-half instead of milk. This means you could order:
- Breve Latte: A standard latte made with steamed half-and-half for an extra-creamy experience.
- Breve Macchiato: An espresso macchiato with a dollop of steamed half-and-half foam instead of milk foam.
- Iced Breve: A chilled version, where the half-and-half is poured cold over cooled espresso and ice for a refreshing treat.
Customizing Your Breve
One of the best things about a breve is its versatility. The rich base pairs beautifully with a variety of flavor additions, allowing you to create a personalized, decadent drink. Some popular additions include:
- Flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.
- Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom.
- Chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a mocha breve.
Conclusion
For those who seek a richer, creamier, and more indulgent alternative to a regular latte, knowing what a coffee with half-and-half is called is the first step toward a more decadent coffee experience. The caffè breve, an American innovation that uses steamed half-and-half, offers a naturally sweeter and more velvety texture that can often be enjoyed without added sugar. Its versatility makes it a perfect canvas for custom flavor combinations, and its rich character makes it a satisfying and comforting treat for any time of day.
For more information on espresso and milk drinks, visit the Breville blog.
