lattes

 I have found a love for lattes, since, I have moved to the PNW...home of Starbucks.  I used to hate coffee...in fact, I still hate coffee, but I love lattes.  It all started when I was at  the Battle Bean on Fort Lewis 2.5 years ago. I thought what the heck I'll try a latte...I ordered a snickers flavored one.  It was OK, but I figured it was an acquired taste. I kept getting the same thing every time I met Eric for lunch. Then they had a peppermint paddy latte...YUM!  Then Starbucks came out with their caramel brulee, then the peppermint mocha, then someone told me to try the peppermint white mocha....mmmmmmmmmmmm LOVE IT!!!!!
When Eric came home on R&R in Feb. 2010, he said I was spending too much at starbucks, and we should get an espresso machine. He had one in Afghanistan, so why not in his kitchen. I ordered the Gaggia Classic espresso machine...my life has not been the same since. We use this machine every day a few times a day.  ABSOLUTELY worth the price.
I have tried to recreate my favorites and in the process have made a few new ones. These recipes make 16 oz beverages. I get my syrups and ghirardelli white chocolate powder from Cash & Carry a restaurant supply, coffee from Costco...rainforest stuff or Starbucks  if there is a coupon. The milkman brings the milk.

• Peppermint White Mocha
• 1 shot of peppermint
• 1 scoop (tbsp) of ghirardelli white chocolate powder 
• whole milk 
• 2 shots of espresso
• Gourmet snickers
• 1 scoop of ghirardelli white chocolate powder
• 1/2 shot of caramel, rum butter, or butterscotch 
• 1/2 shot of hazelnut, almond or your favorite nut flavor
• whole milk
• 2 shots of espresso
• Cinnamon Dolce
• 3/4 shot brown sugar cinnamon (torani brand)
• 1/4 shot vanilla
• whole milk 
• 2 shots of espresso
• White Mocha
• 1 scoop ghirardelli white chocolate powder
• whole milk
• 2 shots of espresso
• Eggnog (seasonal)
• store bough eggnog (full fat)
• 2 shots of espresso

The other thing I love about my espresso machine, is that it give me a good reason to open my house up and invite people over for a latte. If you would like to join me, I would love to have you over for a latte. Just let me know, and I will make your favorite latte.