How to Steam Milk: Barista Skills

Steaming milk is an essential skill for any barista or at-home coffee enthusiast! Incorrectly steamed milk can impact the flavour & texture of your desired coffee. Different types of milk and milk alternatives also behave differently when steamed, but practice makes perfect! See TCP Training Step–by–Step guide to steaming milk.

What you need:

• Espresso machine with steam wand
• Stainless steel milk pitcher 
• Thermometer (optional) 
• Cold milk of any kind

Step-by-Step

1. Begin by pouring cold milk into your stainless-steel pitcher, just below the spout. 
2. Before you begin steaming, purge the steam wand by turning it on briefly to release any water that might be trapped inside. This ensures that only steam comes into contact with the milk, giving you better results. 
3. Place the tip of the steam wand just below the surface of the milk, slightly off-center. This positioning will distribute the heat evenly throughout the milk.
4. Turn on the steam wand and listen for a gentle hissing sound. If the sound is too loud or screechy, the tip of the wand is too high, and you’re introducing too much air. Lower the wand slightly until you achieve a steady, consistent sound.
5. Once you’ve introduced enough air, submerge the steam wand deeper into the milk to continue heating it without adding more air. This is the texturing phase, where the milk becomes silky and smooth. Keep the whirlpool effect going by maintaining the off-center position of the steam wand. 
6. Ideally, the milk should reach a temperature between 65°C to 70°C. If you’re using a thermometer, keep an eye on it, but you can also gauge the temperature by touch—when the pitcher becomes too hot to hold comfortably, the milk is ready 
7. Once you’ve finished steaming, turn off the steam wand and immediately remove it from the milk. Tap the pitcher on the counter to break any large bubbles, then swirl the milk to incorporate the foam into the liquid. The milk should have a glossy, paint-like look 
8. Don’t forget to wipe down and purge the steam wand immediately after use to prevent milk residue from clogging it.

Barista Skills with TCP

Learn how to steam milk in real time with TCP Training! This hands-on experience aims to enhance skills and confidence, preparing students to work in the industry.

Book today and experience a fun, interactive and hands-on classroom that leaves you feeling confident when steaming your own milk!