If you’re in the mood to take your coffee game up a notch, let me introduce you to the indulgent world of the Breve.
It’s not just a latte with a little twist—this one’s a velvety masterpiece.
Imagine replacing the usual milk with half-and-half. What you get is a richer, thicker, and undeniably creamier coffee experience, perfect for those mornings (or afternoons) when you want to savor every sip.
Whether you’re looking for a treat-yourself moment or a new go-to favorite, a Breve promises that every cup feels just a bit more luxurious.
Ingredients you need
- Espresso or strong brewed coffee of your choice
- Half-and-half
- Optional: Brown sugar, sugar syrup, or flavored syrup to sweeten
- Optional: Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting
How To Make a Breve
Step 1: Brew two shots of espresso into two separate serving glasses. Or make a strong coffee brewed using the method of your choice.
Step 2: Optional: Add a sweetener like sugar syrup, brown sugar, or flavored syrup.
Step 3: Steam a cup of half-and-half until it’s hot and frothy.
Step 4: Pour the steamed half-and-half over the espresso.
Step 5: Top with a small layer of froth.
Step 6: Optional: Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon for an extra touch.
What is Half-and-Half?
Half-and-half is a dairy product made from equal parts whole milk and heavy cream. It’s richer and creamier than regular milk but not as thick as heavy cream. In coffee drinks like a Breve, half-and-half gives a velvety, indulgent texture without being overly heavy. It’s commonly used to add creaminess to beverages and recipes, striking the perfect balance between light and rich.
What is Breve Coffee?
A Breve coffee is a creamy espresso-based drink made with steamed half-and-half instead of milk. The word “breve” means “short” in Italian, but in the coffee world, it refers to the rich, velvety texture created by the higher fat content in the half-and-half. The result is a thicker, creamier version of a standard latte, making it a decadent choice for those who love their coffee indulgent and smooth.
Products
- Coffeemaker of your choice
- Saucepan and milk frother or steam wand of your espresso machine
- Serving glasses
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If you make this recipe, let me know how you liked it by ★★★★★ star rating it and leaving a comment below. This would be awesome! You can also sign up for our Newsletter or follow me on Pinterest or Instagram and share your creation with me. Just tag me @coffeewithnora and hashtag #coffeewithnora_recipes, so I don’t miss it.
How to make a Breve Coffee?
Equipment
- Coffeemaker of your choice
- Saucepan and milk frother or steam wand of your espresso machine
- Serving glasses
Ingredients
- 2 shots Espresso or strong coffee of your choice
- 2 cup Half-and-half
Optional
- Brown sugar sugar syrup, or flavored syrup to sweeten
- Cocoa powder or cinnamon for dusting
Instructions
- Brew 2 shots Espresso or a strong cup of coffee using your preferred method.2 shots Espresso
- Optional: Add a sweetener of your choice—such as sugar syrup, Brown sugar, or a flavored syrup.Brown sugar
- Steam 2 cup Half-and-half until it's hot and frothy, then pour it over the espresso.2 cup Half-and-half
- Top your breve with a small layer of froth.
- Optional: Dust with Cocoa powder or cinnamon.Cocoa powder or cinnamon
Nutrition
Food Safety
- Don’t leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooking food and beverages unattended
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
I’ve always wondered how to make a breve! Thanks so much for the easy recipe–my walled thanks you too 😉
I made this coffee for some of my neighbors who came over one morning. The half and half made this coffee extra indulgent and we all loved the touch of cinnamon!