With the steam wand you can make the perfect cup of milk. With some practise you can even use it to create latte art!

1. Choose your milk

The type of milk affects the taste and texture of the final drink. Whole milk typically works better, with the right balance of fat and proteins to make a thick, smooth and creamy drink. Some great dairy alternatives include Almond milk, Oat milk, Soy milk and Macadamia milk.

2. Purge the steam wand

It is important to make sure that there’s no water in the pipe. Remove the excess water that may have built up in your steam wand.

3. Preparing your milk jug

Make sure that there is plenty of room in your milk jug (or cup) for the milk to expand.

4. Inserting the steam wand

Start off by partially submerging the tip of the steam wand, keeping it about half-way between the center and the side of the milk jug. This position will help to keep the milk evenly heated by allowing it to spin inside the milk jug.

5. Stretching the milk

Next, turn on the steam wand. The moment steam starts entering the milk, slowly begin lowering the pitcher until you hear a quiet hissing sound for just a few seconds. This is the sound of air entering the milk – but be careful not to lower the jug too much, or air will blast and splatter the milk.

6. Submerge the wand back into the milk

Now that air has been introduced into the milk, submerging the wand helps us heat the milk evenly by creating a vortex.

7. Remove the steam wand

Once the milk jug is hot to the touch, turn off the steam and remove the steam wand from the milk. Make sure to wipe and purge the steam wand. If there are any larger bubbles in the milk, a few taps against the counter should get rid of them.

8. And you’re done!

There you have it – pour your steamed milk into your drink of choice! You can also enjoy your coffee with some latte art with enough time and practice!

How to Steam Milk Like a Barista