If you’ve been to Starbucks, you know they offer a wide variety of drinks. Some, like lattes and cappuccinos, are well-known. Others, like the “breve,” are less common but just as delicious. Have you ever wondered what makes breve special? Or how you can enjoy one without leaving your house? You’re in the right place!
In this article, we’ll explain what a breve is, how it’s different from other coffee drinks, and how you can easily make it at home. Whether you’re a coffee lover or just curious, you’ll soon see why breve is worth a try.
Where Did Breve Coffee Come From?
- Origin in Italy: Breve coffee comes from Italy, where espresso (a strong type of coffee) was first created.
- Italian Influence: The word “breve” comes from the Italian word breve, which means “short” or “brief.” It refers to a shorter or richer version of the usual espresso drinks.
- A Creamier Twist: In Italy, coffee is often served with milk or water. But in the case of breve coffee, it’s made with half-and-half (a mix of milk and cream) instead of regular milk, making it extra creamy and smooth.
- America’s Take: While breve coffee has Italian roots, it became popular in America, especially in coffee shops like Starbucks, where people enjoy sweeter, richer drinks.
- Growing Popularity: The breve became popular in the U.S. over time because it gave coffee lovers a creamy, smooth drink while still keeping the strong flavor of espresso.
- Coffee Shops: As more coffee shops opened in the 1990s, breve coffee became a favorite choice for people looking for a tasty, indulgent coffee drink.
What is Breve at Starbucks?
A breve is a rich, creamy coffee drink that feels fancy but is very simple to understand. The word “breve” comes from Italian and means “short.” However, in the United States, it refers to a special type of latte. Unlike a regular latte, which uses milk, a breve uses half-and-half, a mix of whole milk and cream.
At Starbucks, a breve is basically a creamier and thicker version of a latte. It’s made by combining espresso, which is a concentrated coffee shot, with steamed half-and-half. This combination creates a drink that is smooth and velvety, with a taste that feels richer and more indulgent than a typical latte made with milk.
Breve is a great choice if you love creamy coffee drinks or if you’re looking to try something a little different from your usual order.
How Breve Made at Starbucks
When you order a breve at Starbucks, the process is straightforward. Here’s what happens behind the counter:
- The Espresso Base
- The barista starts by making a shot of espresso. This is the foundation of most Starbucks coffee drinks. Espresso is brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans, creating a strong and flavorful shot of coffee.
- Steaming the Half-and-Half
- Instead of using milk, the barista pours half-and-half into a steaming pitcher. Half-and-half is a mix of whole milk and cream, which makes it thicker and creamier than regular milk. They steam it until it’s warm, smooth, and slightly frothy.
- Combining the Ingredients
- The steamed half-and-half is carefully poured over the espresso shot. The two blend together, creating a drink that’s creamy with a slight foam on top.
The result? A breve that’s ready to enjoy, with its signature velvety texture and rich flavor.
Why People Love Breve
There’s a lot to love about breve, and here’s why it’s a favorite for many:
- Rich and Creamy Texture
- The use of half-and-half makes the drink thicker and creamier than a regular coffee or latte. This texture feels luxurious and satisfying.
- Smooth Flavor
- Breve is less sharp and acidic than black coffee or drinks made with just milk. The natural creaminess of half-and-half balances out the espresso, creating a smooth and mellow taste.
- Naturally Sweet
- Half-and-half has a slight sweetness on its own, which means you don’t always need to add sugar or syrups. It’s a great choice if you enjoy a sweet drink without extra calories from added sugars.
- A Treat for Coffee Lovers
- Because breve feels indulgent, it’s a nice change from your regular coffee routine. Whether you’re celebrating a special day or just want to treat yourself, breve is a drink worth trying.
Differences Between Breve and Other Drinks
Breve might sound like a latte or other coffee drinks, but it’s quite different. Let’s compare it to some popular options so you can see how it stands out.
1. Breve vs. Latte
- A latte is made with espresso and steamed milk. Milk is lighter and less creamy than half-and-half.
- A breve uses half-and-half instead of milk, giving it a thicker and richer taste.
2. Breve vs. Cappuccino
- A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. It’s frothier and has a stronger coffee taste.
- A breve is creamier with less foam and a smoother texture overall.
3. Breve vs. Flat White
- A flat white is made with espresso and microfoam, which is finely textured steamed milk. It’s velvety but lighter than a breve.
- A breve is heavier and more indulgent because of the half-and-half.
4. Breve and Calories
- Because half-and-half is richer than milk, a breve is higher in calories and fat. While it’s not the best choice for a low-calorie drink, it’s very satisfying and can keep you fuller for longer.
How to Make a Breve at Home
Making a breve at home might sound fancy, but it’s actually very simple. You don’t need to go to Starbucks to enjoy this creamy drink!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Espresso or strong coffee.
- Half-and-half (you can also use dairy-free alternatives like oat or almond creamer if needed).
- Optional: sweeteners like sugar, honey, or flavored syrups (vanilla, caramel, etc.).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brew Your Espresso
- Start by brewing a strong shot of espresso. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can use a stovetop espresso maker or make strong coffee using your regular coffee maker. You’ll need about 1-2 shots of espresso or ¼ cup of strong coffee.
- Heat the Half-and-Half
- Pour half-and-half into a small saucepan or a milk frother. Heat it gently over low heat until it’s warm and starts to form a light foam.
- If you don’t have a frother, you can whisk it by hand or shake it in a jar before heating. Just make sure it doesn’t boil—overheating can ruin the texture.
- Combine the Ingredients
- Pour your freshly brewed espresso into a cup. Slowly add the steamed half-and-half on top. Let them mix naturally to create the creamy texture of a breve.
- Add Sweeteners (Optional)
- If you like your coffee sweet, stir in a little sugar or syrup. Popular choices include vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Your homemade breve is ready! Pour it into your favorite mug, sit back, and enjoy the rich, creamy flavor.
Tips for the Best Homemade Breve:
- Use freshly ground coffee for the best-tasting espresso.
- Be careful not to overheat the half-and-half; warm and frothy is perfect.
- Experiment with toppings like cinnamon, nutmeg, or chocolate shavings to add a little flair.
Making a breve at home is easy, fun, and a great way to enjoy a coffee shop treat without leaving the house.
Variations of Breve
One of the best things about breve is that it’s a flexible drink that can easily be customized to suit your personal taste. Whether you like your coffee sweet, dairy-free, or even chilled, you can make a breve just the way you enjoy it. Here are some fun and tasty variations to try:
1. Flavored Breve
- If you like your coffee with a hint of flavor, try adding syrups like hazelnut, caramel, or vanilla. These classic flavors pair beautifully with the rich creaminess of the half-and-half.
- For a seasonal twist, consider flavors like pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint during the holidays. You can even mix and match syrups to create your unique combination, such as a mocha-hazelnut breve.
2. Dairy-Free Breve
- For those who avoid dairy, you can still enjoy a similar creamy texture by using dairy-free alternatives. Try oat milk creamer, almond cream, or coconut cream.
- While these substitutes may not replicate the exact taste of half-and-half, they create a lighter, flavorful breve that’s friendly for vegans or those with lactose intolerance. Oat milk creamer is especially popular for its naturally creamy consistency.
3. Iced Breve
- On hot days, switch to an iced breve for a refreshing option. Use cold espresso or chilled strong coffee as your base.
- Instead of steaming the half-and-half, pour it cold over ice and mix it with the espresso. For extra flavor, add syrups like vanilla or mocha and garnish with whipped cream for a decadent summer drink.
4. Breve with Toppings
- Elevate your breve by adding toppings like whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup. These small additions can make the drink feel even more special.
5. Spiced Breve
- For a cozy and aromatic drink, blend spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or clove into your breve. These warm flavors pair wonderfully with the creamy base, creating a drink perfect for cold weather.
Why Does Breve Have More Calories?
Breve is made with half-and-half instead of milk. Here’s why that matters:
- Half-and-half is a mix of whole milk and heavy cream, which makes it richer and creamier but also significantly higher in calories and fat compared to milk.
- Calories in half-and-half (per cup): ~320 calories
- Calories in whole milk (per cup): ~150 calories
- Since a breve uses steamed half-and-half, its calorie count is higher than drinks made with milk, such as a latte or flat white.
How Were the Calorie Estimates Derived?
- Breve: A typical breve uses ~¾ cup (6 oz) of half-and-half, which adds up to ~240 calories. Adding a shot of espresso (~10 calories), the total comes to approximately 250 calories.
- Regular Latte: Made with 6 oz of whole milk (~90 calories) and a shot of espresso (~10 calories), totaling around 150 calories.
- Cappuccino: Uses ~4 oz of whole milk (less than a latte due to the foam), totaling ~120 calories.
- Flat White: Made with 5-6 oz of steamed whole milk and espresso, averaging around 130 calories.
- Black Coffee: Contains no milk or cream, so it’s essentially calorie-free (~2 calories from the coffee itself).
Why Try Breve?
Breve isn’t just another coffee drink—it’s a special treat for your taste buds. Here’s why you should give it a try:
1. It Feels Luxurious
- The creamy, velvety texture of breve makes it stand out from other coffee drinks. It feels indulgent and comforting, like a dessert in a cup.
2. Customizable to Your Taste
- Whether you prefer it plain or with a hint of sweetness, breve can be easily adjusted to fit your flavor preferences. Add your favorite syrups, spices, or toppings to make it uniquely yours.
3. Versatile for All Occasions
- Breve can be served hot for a cozy morning boost or iced for a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up. It works well as a casual everyday drink or as something special for guests.
4. A Unique Coffee Experience
- If you’re tired of the same old lattes and cappuccinos, breve offers a delicious way to change things up. Its rich flavor and creamy consistency are unlike any other coffee drink.
Breve is more than just coffee—it’s an experience. Whether you enjoy it during quiet mornings or as a reward after a long day, breve adds a touch of indulgence to your routine.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about breve and their answers to help you understand it better:
1. What does breve taste like?
Breve has a creamy, smooth flavor that’s naturally sweet because of the half-and-half. It’s richer than a latte but not as heavy as some desserts. The espresso gives it a bold coffee base, while the half-and-half balances it with a velvety texture.
2. Is breve sweet?
Breve isn’t sweetened by default. The half-and-half adds a touch of natural sweetness, but you can add syrups or sugar to make it as sweet as you like. Flavored syrups like caramel or vanilla are popular options.
3. Can I make breve without espresso?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have an espresso machine, use strong brewed coffee instead. Make sure it’s bold enough to balance the creaminess of the half-and-half.
4. Is breve healthier than a latte?
Breve is richer and higher in calories and fat because of the half-and-half. If you’re watching your calorie intake, breve is best enjoyed as an occasional treat. You can also try lighter substitutes like low-fat creamer or dairy-free alternatives.
5. Can I use non-dairy options for breve?
Absolutely! Dairy-free options like almond cream, oat milk creamer, or coconut cream work well for making breve. Keep in mind that these substitutes will slightly change the flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Now you know all about breve, a creamy and indulgent coffee drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re ordering it at Starbucks or making it at home, breve is a wonderful way to enjoy your coffee in a new and exciting way.
Its rich, velvety texture and customizable nature make it a favorite among coffee lovers. You can try it plain, sweetened, iced, or spiced—there’s no wrong way to enjoy a breve.
So why not give it a try? Whether it’s a quiet morning treat or a special drink to share with friends, breve is sure to impress. Once you taste its creamy goodness, it might just become your new favorite coffee drink!
