Spanish Café con Leche

Instructions

1. Prepare the coffee
   Add the ground coffee to a moka pot or espresso machine. If using a moka pot, fill the bottom chamber with water just below the valve, add the coffee to the filter basket, and screw on the top. Place on medium heat until coffee begins to bubble up.
2. Heat the milk
   While the coffee is brewing, add the milk to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until it's hot but not boiling, about 3-4 minutes. For an authentic texture, use a milk frother or whisk vigorously to create some foam.
3. Combine coffee and milk
   For the traditional Spanish method, add equal parts coffee and hot milk to each mug. In Spain, café con leche typically uses a 1:1 ratio of strong coffee to milk, unlike Italian cappuccinos which have more foam.
4. Add flavorings
   Add sugar to taste and stir well to dissolve. If using cinnamon or vanilla, add them now and stir. In some regions of Spain, a small piece of orange peel is sometimes added to the cup for a subtle citrus aroma.
5. Serve immediately
   Garnish with a cinnamon stick or orange peel if desired. Traditionally served in a wide ceramic cup rather than a tall glass, allowing the drinker to appreciate the equal mixture of coffee and milk.