Coffee has become an essential part of many people’s daily routines, and with so many options available, choosing the perfect coffee drink can be a daunting task.
Latte is one of the most popular coffee drinks, but have you ever heard of a Breve?
While these two drinks may seem similar, there are significant differences between them that make each one unique.
A Latte is a classic coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, often topped with a layer of frothed milk. On the other hand, a Breve is a lesser-known coffee drink made with espresso and half-and-half milk, which is a combination of cream and whole milk.
So, which one is better, and how do they compare? Let’s dive into the World of Breve vs Latte and find out!
What is Breve?
Breve is a type of espresso drink made with steamed half-and-half milk instead of regular whole milk.
It originated in the United States and is sometimes referred to as a “breve latte.” The word “breve” means “short” in Italian, which is an accurate description of this coffee as it is typically served in a smaller cup than a traditional latte.
The strong espresso and creamy half-and-half create a perfect balance, making it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts. Breve coffee can be enjoyed hot or cold, often topped with foam or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a luxurious appearance.
What is a Latte?
Latte is a popular coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. The word “latte” is derived from the Italian caffè latte, which means “milk coffee.”
The drink is typically served in a larger cup than Breve and is often topped with a small amount of frothed milk.
Also, there are many variations of Latte that can be made by adding Vanilla Syrup, Caramel sauce, Cocoa Powder, Chocolate Drizzle, Whipped Cream, etc.
Difference between Breve and Latte
Now, let’s delve into the differences between Breve and Latte:
The type and amount of milk
Breve and Latte differ primarily in the type and amount of milk used.
Breve is made with half-and-half, which is a combination of whole milk and cream, while Latte is made with whole or 2% milk. So, Breve has a higher fat content and is creamier and richer than Latte.
Additionally, the amount of milk used also differs between the two drinks.
Breves are typically made with 1 part espresso and 1 or 2 parts half and half milk, whereas latte’s milk content is around 1:3-4.
This makes Breve a more coffee-forward drink than a Latte.
Taste and flavor profiles
Breve is creamier, sweeter, and richer than a traditional latte, and has a nuttier, caramel-like flavor. On the other hand, Latte has a more delicate and lighter taste with a smooth mouthfeel.
The higher fat content in the half-and-half or cream adds a thick and luscious mouthfeel and contributes to a fuller-bodied taste. The indulgent creaminess of Breve gives a dessert like experience.
A latte, with its steamed milk, delivers a creamy and smooth texture. The milk’s natural sweetness complements the espresso, resulting in a well-balanced and slightly sweet flavor.
Whenever I’m feeling like a sweet and creamy coffee dessert, I enjoy drinking Breve, but for a regular drink, a Latte is better, as it’s lighter and smoother and does not leave me feeling heavy.
Calories and caffeine content
In terms of calorie content, a breve generally contains more calories compared to a latte. The use of half-and-half or cream in a breve contributes to its higher fat and calorie content.
At Starbucks, A small 8-ounce Breve contains about 280 calories, while a 12-ounce Latte contains approximately 100 calories. So, there is a difference of approximately one third!
Additionally, both a classic latte and a breve are typically made with a double-shot Espresso and have a caffeine content ranging from approximately 80 to 120mg.
While indulging in a creamy and rich breve can be a delightful treat, it’s important to keep in mind that its higher fat and calorie content may not make it the best choice for daily consumption.
The origins and variations
It’s no secret that Americans have an insatiable love for sweet and creamy beverages. So, it comes as no surprise that Breve, the indulgent coffee drink, found its origins right here in the United States.
In Contrast, Latte originated in Italy but is also more popular in the US than in Italy itself due to the American obsession with sweet coffee.
Both beverages have variations based on different regions and cultures. For example, in some regions, Breve is made with heavy cream instead of half-and-half, while in others, it is made with steamed milk and cream instead of half-and-half.
Similarly, Latte also has various regional variations. In Italy, a traditional Latte is typically served in a smaller cup with a higher concentration of espresso. In the United States, Latte is often served in larger cups and can be customized with various flavors and syrups.
Other variations of Latte include the popular flavored lattes such as vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut, and the popular seasonal lattes such as pumpkin spice latte and peppermint mocha latte.
Overall, both Breve and Latte have evolved and adapted to various regional tastes and preferences.
Iced Latte vs Iced Breve
The differences between Iced Latte and Iced Breve are similar to their hot counterparts.
Iced Breve is made by blending together ice cubes, half and half milk, and Espresso shots in a blender. The drink has a deliciously thick consistency, which is refreshing, and has a very rich mouthfeel.
On the other hand, Iced Latte is made with regular milk, resulting in a lighter and smoother consistency.
Iced Latte is my go-to drink during the summer months because of its refreshing taste and lighter consistency. However, Iced Breve is a delicious treat that I indulge in occasionally when I want something creamier and richer.
It is worth noting that both Iced Latte and Iced Breve can be customized with different flavors and syrups. Some popular additions include vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut. Additionally, Iced Latte can be made with alternative milk options such as almond or soy milk for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy option.
Breve vs Latte, So What’s Better?
In the battle of Breve vs Latte, both beverages bring their own unique flavors and characteristics to the table.
Breve stands out with its rich and creamy texture, thanks to the use of half and half, while Latte offers a balanced and velvety experience with its combination of espresso and whole milk.
Personally, I love Latte for its smooth and mild flavors, especially on chilly mornings. But when I’m feeling fancy and want a rich and indulgent treat, Breve is the way to go.
At the end of the day, it’s all about personal preference and indulging in the delightful world of coffee. So whether you fancy the creamy embrace of Breve or the harmonious dance of espresso and milk in a Latte, go ahead and enjoy your caffeinated journey with a smile.
As when it comes to coffee, there’s no right or wrong answer, only a delicious adventure waiting to be savored!
Read about 30 Delicious Espresso-based Drinks
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FAQs
Is a breve or latte healthier?
Breve contains more calories and fat due to the use of half-and-half instead of regular milk that’s why it may not be a healthy option.
If you’re watching your calorie intake, opting for a Latte with skim milk or a non-dairy alternative can be a healthier option.
Is Breve sweeter than Latte?
Breve is sweeter than Latte, this is because half-and-half, which is used in Breve, has a higher fat content and naturally imparts a creamy and slightly sweet flavor.
However, the sweetness can be adjusted by adding sweeteners or flavorings according to personal taste.
