Here is the Starbucks recipe for creating a frothy topping that is suitable for iced coffee and cold brew, so make sure you try it out!
Why does cold foam seem to be so popular? What’s the story behind it? There’s just something about it that makes it so good. You might have noticed this trend at Starbucks lately, and let me tell you: we are generally wary of any kind of food trend that comes along. Having said that, this one certainly holds up over time! This is a great alternative to whipped cream that you can use on iced coffee drinks, and it is delicious as well. Adding just the right amount of cream to the top of your iced espresso or coffee adds just the right amount of frothy charm. Moreover, you can even make it at home if you want to! This is a recipe for making cold foam that you can have at home if you are looking for an alternative to Starbucks’ cold foam.
What is Cold Foam?
In the world of cold coffee drinks such as iced coffee, cold brew, iced cappuccinos, and nitro coffee, cold foam is frothed nonfat milk that makes a frothy topping for iced drinks. Basically, it simulates the foamy top that would be on top of a latte or cappuccino, but it does so at a cold temperature so that it does not melt when it comes into contact with the drink.
There is a thick, frothy layer of foam sitting atop the top of a drink, and as you sip it, the foam gradually settles into the drink. Since it’s made with nonfat milk, it’s only going to add a few calories to the drink but the slightly sweet crema topping really adds a lot of flavor and texture to it! In this part of the world, we tend to be wary of most trends, but this one is absolutely scrumptious.
Best Milk for Cold Foam
In order to make the creamiest and richest cold foam, you might think that a full fat milk would make the best result. Even some homemade recipes call for heavy cream or whole milk as a part of the recipe. You might not believe this, but guess what? In order to make the thickest, strongest cold foam, skim milk should be used. It is because it contains a higher percentage of protein when compared to whole milk or 2% milk, which has a lower protein percentage.
Compared to this, whole milk makes the best steamed milk for a latte because it is so rich and creamy! Why is this so? Lipids in the milk keep the bubbles small, which is why the microfoam texture is perfect for latte art. As a result, if you see a cold foam recipe that uses heavy cream or whole milk, you should run away immediately! There is no doubt that skim milk is the best option for you.
How to Make Cold Foam (DIY Starbucks Recipe)
Are you wondering how you can make your own cold foam at home? You can make this treat very easily and it is one of the most impressive ways to top your homemade cold brew and iced coffee. Here are the steps you will need to take in order to accomplish this.
Grab a milk frother. If you want to replicate Starbucks’ cold foam at home, you’ll be able to do it with the help of a special tool: a handheld milk frother. (This is an Amazon affiliate link – as an Amazon Associate, we earn commissions from qualifying purchases.). There is no better tool for making thick, fluffy foam than this one. It is absolutely worth the purchase in my opinion.
Consider a whisk. If you prefer not to use (or don’t have) a milk frother, you do have the option of using a manual whisk, although we don’t recommend using a whisk for cold foam. This is due to the fact that the bubbles get very large and the texture is too loose.
Froth for 15 to 20 seconds. In a tall cup, mix the skim milk with some simple syrup and froth it until it is very fluffy. It only takes about 15 seconds for it to whip up, and you will be amazed at how fast it whips up.
Variation: Add Vanilla to Cold Foam Ingredients!
Want to take your cold foam to the next level? In order to add a delicious nuance to the flavor, you may want to add a hint of vanilla extract to it. In the beginning, I wondered whether this would result in the topping taking on a light brown color. In my testing, however, I did not notice a perceptible difference in whiteness compared to what I was used to. Just add a very small dash and you’re good to go!