Prep Time: 5 minutes
Brewing Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
Cost per Serving: $2.50
Calorie Count per Serving: 160 kcal
Breve coffee is a must-have in our house—especially for my husband. Every morning, before he even thinks about starting work, he needs his breve. It’s like a little ritual—smooth, rich espresso mixed with ultra-creamy half-and-half, giving it that luxurious, velvety texture. Unlike a regular latte, a breve is naturally sweeter, thicker, and just downright indulgent.
If you’ve never tried it, trust me, you’re in for a treat! Whether you’re looking for a new morning pick-me-up, a keto-friendly coffee option, or just something a little more special than your usual cup, this drink delivers. So, grab your espresso machine (or Moka pot) and let’s make the creamiest coffee you’ve ever tasted!
What is Breve Coffee?
Breve coffee, or Caffè Breve, is an ultra-creamy espresso-based drink made with half-and-half instead of milk. This small change makes it richer and thicker than a traditional latte, giving it a naturally sweeter taste—without adding sugar!
A breve is perfect for those who love bold espresso flavor but also crave a luxurious, velvety texture. Whether you enjoy it hot or as an iced breve coffee, this drink is a must-try for coffee lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Drink
Ultra-Creamy & Indulgent: If you love a latte but crave something even richer, breve coffee is your new best friend. Thanks to the half-and-half, every sip is silky smooth with a natural sweetness—no extra sugar needed!
Morning Game-Changer: In our house, this drink is non-negotiable for my husband. It’s his go-to every morning before work, and honestly, I get it. It’s the kind of coffee that feels like a treat but gives you that much-needed energy boost to start the day.
Versatile & Easy to Customize: Prefer it iced? No problem. Want a little extra flavor? Add vanilla, caramel, or even chocolate syrup for a fun twist (hello, mocha breve!).
Keto & Low-Carb Friendly: Since it’s made with half-and-half instead of milk, breve coffee is naturally higher in fat and lower in carbs—perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet.
Trust me, once you try a breve, it’s hard to go back to regular lattes!
How to make Breve Coffee
Ingredients
The exact ingredient measurements are listed below in the recipe card—scroll down to get started!
Espresso: A rich, bold espresso shot is the heart of a breve coffee. For the best flavor, use freshly ground espresso beans. No espresso machine? A Moka pot or strong French press brew will do the trick.
Half-and-Half: This is what makes a breve truly special. Unlike regular milk, half-and-half (a blend of milk and cream) creates an ultra-creamy, naturally sweet coffee without the need for added sugar. If you’re feeling fancy, try steaming it for extra froth!
Optional Add-ins: Want a little twist? A drizzle of vanilla syrup makes it extra smooth, while chocolate syrup transforms it into a mocha breve. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg add a warm, cozy touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
Start by pulling two shots of espresso using your espresso machine. No machine? No problem—brew a strong cup using a Moka pot or French press. Just make sure it’s bold enough to hold up to all that creamy goodness.
Step 2: Steam the Half-and-Half
While your espresso is brewing, pour 4 ounces of half-and-half into a small saucepan or steaming pitcher. If you have a steam wand, go ahead and froth it up until it reaches 150°F (65°C)—just enough to create that silky, microfoam texture. No steam wand? Just heat the half-and-half gently on the stovetop, then use a hand frother or whisk to create some foam.
Step 3: Assemble Your Breve
Pour your espresso into a cup, then slowly add the steamed half-and-half, holding back the foam with a spoon. Once the cup is full, top it off with the remaining foam for that signature creamy finish.
Want to make a Mocha Breve? Stir in a drizzle of chocolate syrup before adding the half-and-half for a rich, chocolatey twist.
Breve Coffee Variations to Try
Love breve coffee? Take it up a notch with these delicious variations, each bringing a unique twist to the classic creamy espresso drink.
Mocha Breve – If you’re a fan of rich, chocolatey coffee drinks, this one’s for you! A mocha breve blends the smooth, creamy texture of a breve with the indulgent taste of chocolate, making it a dessert-like treat in a cup.
Vanilla Breve – Sometimes, simplicity is key. A vanilla breve enhances the natural sweetness of half-and-half with a touch of vanilla, giving it a warm, aromatic flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Caramel Breve – Sweet, buttery, and ultra-creamy, a caramel breve is perfect for those who love a hint of rich caramel in their coffee. It’s smooth, indulgent, and just the right amount of sweet without overpowering the espresso.
Want to try these? Stay tuned! We’ll share individual recipes for each variation soon!
Breve coffee Tips
Use Freshly Brewed Espresso
A rich, bold espresso is key to a great breve. If possible, grind your beans fresh before brewing. No espresso machine? A Moka pot or a French press with extra-fine grounds can still give you a strong, flavorful base.
Get the Half-and-Half Just Right
For a hot breve, steam your half-and-half to 150°F (65°C)—warm enough to be velvety but not so hot that it scalds. No steam wand? Heat it on the stove and use a hand frother to get that creamy, foamy texture.
Iced Breve? Cool the Espresso First
If you’re making an iced breve coffee, let your espresso cool before pouring it over ice. Hot espresso + ice = watered-down coffee, and nobody wants that!
Want Extra Froth?
For an even creamier texture, froth a little extra half-and-half and spoon it on top. It’s like a mini latte but way richer.
Customize Your Flavor
Want something extra? Add a splash of vanilla syrup, a drizzle of caramel, or a shot of chocolate syrup for a mocha breve. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg also adds a warm, cozy touch.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a breve that’s smooth, creamy, and absolutely irresistible!
What to Serve with This Recipe
Pairing breve coffee with complementary treats can enhance the indulgence of this creamy drink. Here are some perfect options, including links to recipes for added inspiration:
Sweet Pairings: Cookies and Pastries
The richness of breve coffee pairs beautifully with buttery or chocolatey desserts. Try serving it with:
- Shortbread Cookies: Their delicate sweetness balances the creaminess of the coffee. Explore homemade cookie recipes like these nutter butter cookies.
- Chocolate Wafer Cookies: For a decadent twist, check out this chocolate wafer recipe.
- Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake: A slice of this dessert complements the coffee’s bold espresso flavors. Learn how to make it here.
Savory Options: Breakfast and Brunch Favorites
For a hearty pairing, consider savory breakfast options that highlight the richness of breve coffee:
- Mini Pancakes: These bite-sized treats are a fun and filling complement. Learn more here.
- Cottage Cheese Flatbread: A light, savory option that balances the creamy coffee. Check out the recipe here.
These pairings make every sip of breve coffee even more enjoyable. Explore these recipes to turn your coffee break into a delightful culinary experience! Would you like a deeper dive into any of these recipes?s!
Kitchen Tools you will need
Please note that the links below are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for supporting my blog!
To make the most delicious and creamy breve coffee, having the right tools and ingredients is essential. Here are some must-have products you can conveniently shop for online:
- Espresso Machine
- A high-quality espresso machine ensures a rich and flavorful espresso shot every time.
- Shop Now on Amazon
- Handheld Milk Frother
- Create that velvety foam effortlessly with a handheld frother. Compact, easy to use, and perfect for home baristas!
- Buy on Amazon
- Stainless Steel Frothing Pitcher
- Achieve the perfect froth with this essential tool for heating and steaming your half-and-half.
- Find it Here
Breve Coffee FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
1. What is a breve coffee?
A breve coffee is a creamy espresso-based drink made with steamed half-and-half instead of milk. This creates a richer and velvety texture compared to a traditional latte or cappuccino. The term “breve” comes from the Italian word for “short,” referring to its decadent, indulgent nature. Learn more here!
2. Is a breve healthier than a latte?
Not necessarily. While a breve coffee is richer and creamier than a latte, it typically has more calories and fat due to the use of half-and-half instead of milk. If you’re watching your calorie intake, a latte made with skim or plant-based milk may be a lighter option. However, for low-carb or keto diets, breve coffee can be a better choice if sugar-free half-and-half is used. Learn more here!
3. How do you pronounce breve coffee?
Breve coffee is pronounced BREH-veh. The word originates from Italian and is often used to describe creamy espresso drinks made with half-and-half.
4. What does breve mean in Starbucks?
At Starbucks, “breve” refers to any drink made with steamed half-and-half instead of milk. You can order a breve latte, breve cappuccino, or even a breve-based version of your favorite flavored coffee. It’s a customizable option for those who love a creamier, richer coffee experience.
These products are carefully selected to make your breve coffee experience at home as enjoyable and convenient as possible. Whether you’re just starting your coffee journey or a seasoned enthusiast, these tools will help you craft the perfect cup every time!
Print
Breve Coffee
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
Breve coffee is a rich, creamy espresso-based drink made with steamed half-and-half instead of milk. This gives it a naturally sweet, velvety texture without any added sugar. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, this breve recipe is simple to make and perfect for coffee lovers looking for an indulgent twist on their morning cup
Ingredients
To whip up the perfect breve coffee, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso (or strong brewed coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine)
- 1/2 cup half-and-half (a mix of milk and cream)
- Optional: Sweetener of your choice (sugar, stevia, or flavored syrups)
Instructions
1: Brew the Espresso
Prepare a shot of espresso using your espresso machine or a strong brewed coffee with a Moka pot. Pour it into your favorite mug.
2: Steam the Half-and-Half
In a milk frother or on the stovetop, heat the half-and-half until it’s hot but not boiling. Froth it to create a thick, velvety foam. If you’re using a stovetop, whisk vigorously or use a hand frother to achieve the foam.
3: Combine and Enjoy
Slowly pour the steamed half-and-half over your espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon. Once poured, spoon the foam on top. Add sweetener or flavored syrup if desired.
4: Garnish (Optional)
Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
No Espresso Machine? Use a Moka pot or French press for a strong coffee base.
Dairy-Free Option? Try coconut cream or almond milk + heavy cream for a similar richness.
Sweeter Version? Add vanilla, caramel, or chocolate syrup to customize the flavor.
Keto-Friendly? Breve coffee is naturally low-carb when made with sugar-free half-and-half.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Espresso Machine
- Cuisine: Americaine
Nutrition
- Calories: 160 Kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: breve coffee, what is breve, iced breve, mocha breve, half breve, keto coffee, breve latte, espresso drinks, low carb coffee
Breve coffee is the perfect drink when you’re in the mood for something bold yet indulgent. Its creamy, frothy texture and espresso kick make it a standout choice for coffee lovers. Try making it at home and customize it to fit your cravings. Let us know your favorite variations in the comments below—happy brewing!
i love