What is in a breve coffee?

A breve coffee is a rich espresso‑based drink made with half‑and‑half instead of regular milk. This creamy half‑and‑half coffee blends the bold flavor of espresso with the soft sweetness of cream, creating a naturally indulgent drink. It’s often enjoyed as part of American coffee culture for its dessert‑like texture and taste.

What is a breve coffee vs latte?

The main difference between a latte and a breve lies in the dairy. A latte uses steamed whole milk, while a breve is made with half‑and‑half. This gives the breve a thicker, creamier texture and a naturally sweeter flavor without added sugar. Many coffee lovers prefer breve when they want a rich treat without a large serving size.

How do you pronounce breve coffee?

It’s pronounced “breh‑veh” , reflecting its Italian origin. The name comes from the word for “short,” referring to the drink’s smaller, concentrated serving compared to larger lattes. Learning the correct pronunciation is part of enjoying authentic breve coffee experiences at home or in cafés.

Why do people order breve?

People order breve because they enjoy its naturally sweet, velvety texture and the bold flavor of espresso paired with creamy half‑and‑half. This combination makes it feel like a small indulgence, perfect for sipping as a dessert coffee beverage or a cozy morning treat.

Can you make an iced breve coffee at home?

Yes! To make an iced breve coffee, pour a double shot of espresso over ice and top it with cold, lightly frothed half‑and‑half. This variation keeps the creamy flavor while refreshing you with an iced espresso drink that’s perfect for warm days.

Is breve coffee healthier than a latte?

Not necessarily. While a breve has a richer flavor, its higher fat content from half‑and‑half means it has more calories than a latte. If consumed occasionally and in moderation, a breve coffee can be part of an enjoyable diet, but lattes are usually lighter on calories.

Breve Coffee Recipe – 5‑Minute Creamy Delight

Name: Breve Coffee – A Creamy Espresso Treat
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 oz fresh espresso; 2 oz half-and-half; Optional: 1 tsp sugar, cocoa powder, or cinnamon

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz fresh espresso

2 oz half-and-half

Optional: 1 tsp sugar, cocoa powder, or cinnamon

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Espresso:Grind fresh coffee beans to a fine espresso grind, tamp, and pull a single or double shot. Keep the cup close to preserve the golden crema.
Steam and Froth the Half-and-Half:Pour half-and-half into a frothing pitcher and steam to 140°F–160°F, creating smooth, glossy microfoam.
Assemble and Serve:Pour steamed half-and-half over the espresso, spoon the microfoam on top, and optionally sprinkle with cocoa or cinnamon. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use fresh espresso for the best flavor. Do not overheat the half-and-half to avoid scalding. Serve immediately for a creamy, indulgent experience.

Author: Robert Thompson
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Stovetop / Espresso Machine
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 40mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg