What type of milk is often preferred for lattes?

Whole milk is often preferred for lattes due to its creamy texture and balanced flavor profile. This type of milk has a higher fat content compared to skim or plant-based alternatives, which contributes to a rich mouthfeel that enhances the overall experience of the drink. When steamed, whole milk froths well, creating a velvety microfoam that is ideal for latte art and adds a luxurious touch to the beverage.

In the context of other types of milk, while almond, skim, and coconut milk can also be used in lattes, they do not typically provide the same creamy richness that whole milk does. Skim milk, for instance, lacks fat and can yield a thinner texture, affecting the overall drink experience. Almond and coconut milk can have distinct flavors, which might not complement the espresso as seamlessly as whole milk. Thus, whole milk remains the traditional and popular choice for crafting lattes, ensuring a harmonious balance of flavor and texture.