How To: Make an authentic cappuccino

Become your own favorite barista by learning to create an authentic cappuccino at home. This Howcast guide demonstrates and provides a recipe for homemade cappuccinos.

You Will Need
* 10 to 16 ounces Of cold milk
* A stainless-steel steaming pitcher
* A thermometer
* An espresso machine with a steamer wand
* 1/4 to 1/2 ounces of freshly ground espresso
* A tamper
* A spoon
* And a mug
* A saucpan
* A milk frother
* Sugar or other sweetener
* And cocoa or cinnamon

Step 1: Prepare the milk
Pour milk into the pitcher so it is 1/3 to 1/2 full and submerge the thermometer. Place the steam wand in the milk so the tip is just below the surface.

Step 2: Steam the milk
Turn on the steam and watch the milk increase in volume as it heats and aerates. Turn off the steam when the thermometer reaches 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Never touch the steam wand or tip once you've turned on the steam – it's hot! Be sure to hold the pitcher by the handle.
*Tip: You can also heat the milk in a saucepan, and use a milk frother with a plunger to aerate the milk.

Step 3: Fill the portafilter
Remove the filter apparatus – or portafilter – from the espresso machine. Pour the ground espresso into the portafilter.

Step 4: Tamp the espresso
Pack the grounds firmly with the tamper to keep the water from rushing through too quickly. Many portafilters have a "fill line" ¬that the grounds should reach after they have been tamped.

Step 5: Pull the shot
Replace and lock the portafilter and place the mug below the spout. Press the button to start the water. It should take 25 seconds to make 1 to 1 1/2 ounces of espresso.

Step 6: Finish the cappuccino
Using the spoon to hold back the foam, pour steamed milk to fill the mug 2/3 full. Fill the rest of the mug with frothy foam by spooning it into your cup. Add sugar or sweetener to taste, and top with cocoa or cinnamon if desired.