Best electric milk frother
Best Milk Frothers 2022 For Hot & Cold Foam, Latte Art
I need multiple drinks at all times. There are practical ones (hello, water) and just-for-fun drinks, like fizzy kombucha and sweet, syrupy soda. Plain and simple, you’ll rarely find me without a beverage—or two or three.
I put great care into setting myself up for refreshment success. That means tools and accessories that make drinking anything better, like glass straws, fun cups, and when I’m in need of caffeine, a reliable milk frother.
I know what you’re probably thinking: Do I really need to add another kitchen gadget to my collection? I’m not here to tell you what to do, but the answer is, in short, yes. A milk frother takes a homemade drink to the next level, blending all types of milk for coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, and even whisking up protein powder, or egg whites for a creamy White Russian cocktail.
If you’re on a mission to find the right milk frother for your needs, we’ve got you covered. I spoke with five coffee experts—including at-home connoisseurs and brand founders—to get their recommendations for the best milk frothers. More on their faves below.
From Our Shop
Photo by Amazon1. Secura Electric Milk Frother, $38.96
Making a great latte or cappuccino at home should be easy, and with the Secura frother, it is. The device is automatic and electric, so all you have to do is fill it with the milk of your choice, press a button, and voilà—you’ll get a thick layer of foam at the ready for your drink. This frother can make a dense or light foam, and it can heat the milk, too.
Zoë Brown, a product reviewer at The Quality Edit, is incredibly passionate about this milk frother. “I’ve used it for more than two years, and still fall asleep looking forward to my latte the next morning because of the sheer magic of this machine. It’s easy to use, durable, well-priced, and makes perfectly airy and fluffy hot or cold foam from any nondairy milk I throw in it,” she says.
Shop on Amazon, $38.96
Photo by Amazon2. SIMPLETaste Milk Frother, $12.97
If affordability, convenience, and ease of use are the most important qualities you’re looking for, a handheld milk frother will serve you well. This one from SIMPLETaste could not be easier to use. Just press the power button and froth away. It’s small, comes with a stand for seamless storage, and is rust-resistant.
“Okay, maybe a fancy frother is a little better? I wouldn’t know because I think this one from Amazon is great. I love adding a little foam to my matcha lattes. It also comes with a little stand, so you can leave it on the counter, which is great,” says New York–based home cook and matcha-lover Alli Rubin. To add to the list of benefits, you can often find this on Amazon for less than $10.
Shop on Amazon, $12.97
Photo by Amazon3. AEVO Milk Frothing Machine, $83.99
Nondairy milks are gaining in popularity, but for purists, this frother works best with dairy milk. AEVO actually advises you to use milk with a fat content of 3 percent or above. Sahra Nguyen, founder of Nguyen Coffee Supply, also suggests adding a dash of cream to create a fluffy froth.
The device has a magnetic frothing lid and removable milk pitcher, which is detachable and dishwasher-safe. “It has multiple options, including frothing, just foam, and hot and cold foam,” Nguyen says. “It can turn any drink into a comforting, frothy drink, including cappuccinos, chai, and turmeric lattes. It's easy to use and clean. I pour my milk or mixture in, hit the button, then step away until it's done.”
Shop on Amazon, $83.99
Photo by Amazon4. Nespresso Aeroccino3 Milk Frother, $99
While it’s the priciest option on this list, this frother has the bells and whistles that make it worth it. It has a simple, streamlined design with smart features that get you your froth fast. The device heats up milk in just 60 seconds, and can prepare hot or cold foam in about 70 seconds. With this gadget you can get hot foam, hot milk, or cold froth to make your favorite coffee preparations, like a café au lait or cappuccino. It also turns off automatically when you’re done.
San Francisco–based home cook Miranda Song prides herself on making coffee at home every day and is a huge fan of this device. “I love my Nespresso Aeroccino! It has settings for both warm and cold foam, so you can make hot and iced lattes at home. It froths the milk quickly and is also very easy to clean.”
Shop on Amazon, $99
Photo by Amazon5. Aerolatte Milk Frother, $29.99
I usually drink my coffee black, but when I don’t, I’m using this Aerolatte frother. I’ve had this frother for years, and I’ve sung its praises for all of them. It’s convenient, takes up barely any space, and is so easy to use. It also works with dairy-free milks, which I also love. It can’t heat milk, but you can easily heat a cup of milk up first then froth it to solve that issue. My favorite use for this little gadget is actually blending powders. I love adding collagen powder to my coffee, but it tends to get clumpy. A little whisk with this and it becomes creamy and delicious.
Shop on Amazon, $29.99
From Our Shop
The Best Milk Frothers of 2022
Straight to the Point
Our favorite countertop milk frother is the Miroco MI-MF001 Milk Frother. It's less than $50 and is a solid performer, capable of making hot and cold foam. However, it has stock issues and is often unavailable. We also like the Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother. If a handheld milk frother is what you're after, we recommend the Golde Superwhisk. It can't heat up milk, but is easy to store or take with you for on-the-go frothing.
I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say the first sip of a well-made coffee drink is a luxury. A perfectly executed latte or cappuccino is like a decadent treat. That being said, trying to mimic the lattes and cappuccinos you get at a coffee shop can feel impossible. But I'm here to tell you that while your barista might have a few professional tools and tricks, a simple milk frother can make your morning brew just as luxurious.
There are hundreds of milk frothers on the market today, and most fall under three categories: manual, handheld, and countertop.
I tested a range of frothers in each category to help you figure out which is the best for your home. I also talked to coffee experts about techniques to achieve the best milk froth, regardless of the type of milk you prefer.
Editor's Note
We recently tested six more popular milk frothers (which either weren't available at the time of or just didn't make our original testing lineup) at our Lab. While our favorites remain the same, we added our thoughts on each of these new models towards the bottom of this page.
The Winners, at a Glance
The Best Countertop Milk Frother: Miroco MI-MF001 Milk Frother
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For the price, versatility, and consistency of milk, no other milk frother did as well as Miroco MI-MF001B. I tested three different models from Miroco, and all of them performed well. What set this model apart was its design (it has a spout and a handle, which made it easy to pour from) and its price. At $40 (at the time of testing), it performed just as well as other models, provided three simple froth settings, and included extra whisks.
Best for: People looking for excellent, no-hassle foam that's easy to pour; who are prone to losing things; and who don’t need a huge range of froth settings.
The Best Milk Frother Upgrade: Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother
Buy on Walmart Buy on Abt. com Buy on Breville.com
Breville's milk frother shows thoughtfulness and care in its design. This is the only machine that offers froth temperature control—from gently warming the milk to getting it to beyond scorching hot. It's also large enough to froth a few drinks at a time.
Best for: Discerning folks who can tell the difference between latte and cappuccino foam, who order their drinks extra hot, and who want complete control over their milk froth.
The Best Handheld Milk Frother: The Golde Superwhisk
Buy on Golde.co
The Golde Superwhisk was the best-designed handheld frother I used. Most of the handheld machines performed similarly, so I looked at how each of them were built, and what I liked about the Superwhisk was that it can be easily taken apart for cleaning. It's also rechargeable, comes with a USB cord, and has a lid that makes it easier to store in a drawer or throw it into your backpack or suitcase for travel.
Best for: People who travel, who don’t want to run out for batteries for their frother, who want a great frothing multitasker, who want to control the exact amount of froth for their drink, and who also have a microwave or don’t mind heating milk on a stovetop.
The Criteria: What We Look for in a Great Milk Frother Pouring oat milk from our favorite overall frother.
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
I considered three main variables when I tested each of the machines: quality of foam, versatility, and design. That first variable was clearly the most important, and as I tested I found that all the tools used could create foam, and most could create foam well. So I spent some time trying to figure out why a consumer might prefer one milk frother over another by reading reviews of each of the frothers.
One theme that came up over and over was a frother’s ability to steam different types of milks. Some reviewers wrote that a particular frother might not steam almond milk as well, or that another frother was the only one that worked with oat milk. Likewise, in many of the manuals I read for the machines, some noted that full fat whole milk steams best. I tested both whole milk and oat milk on every one of the machines and determined that most machines were adept at steaming both, although many of the automatic machines created more froth with whole milk than they did with oat milk. This is not because hand- frothers can froth alternative milks better—it’s because you have more control over a hand-held frother and can adjust your frothing technique to add more air.
When it comes to the automatic frothers, I don’t believe their ability to froth whole milk more effectively than non-dairy milk is an issue with the frother; rather, it has to do with how foams are created and the differences in composition of whole milk and non-dairy alternatives.
What Is Foam?
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
Seems like a silly question, right? A foam is any liquid (or solid) that has trapped gas; with respect to coffee, it refers to the light layer at the top of a drink in which air has been suspended in liquid, typically milk or some milk alternative. At coffee shops, baristas use steam-powered wands to inject milk with air and heat to create stable and delicious microfoam.
I figured that at-home machines use many of the same principles to achieve a similar result. Some of the mechanics of milk steaming with at-home frothers—in particular, the cold foam feature—really confused me, so I reached out to Dr. Thom Huppertz, a professor of Dairy Science and Technology at Wageningen University and editor-in-chief of the International Dairy Journal to help me understand how and why milk foams.
Milk contains three main ingredients besides water: proteins, fats, and sugars. All three are important (not equally so) to the unique flavor of milk, but we're going to focus on the first two because of the roles they play in milk steaming and foam creation.
Protein: “Milk proteins are special,” said Dr. Huppertz at Re:co, a conference where leaders within the coffee world come together and share ideas. When we hopped on the phone, I asked him if there’s anything else like milk—if I wanted to froth orange juice, for example, would it create foam? Yes, he said, but nothing that’s very stable. “The only other substance that can foam like milk are eggs. ”
“What makes milk proteins unique,” he continues, “is that they are highly soluble in water and they are surface active.”
When you’re frothing milk, you’re bringing in air from the surface into the milk. You can create foam with anything when you agitate it and mix it up with air, but creating a stable foam, one in which air will remain trapped within the liquid for an extended period of time, is another matter. Because milk proteins are surface active, meaning they interact well with things introduced to their surface, they can grab onto whatever’s on top of them, and when you’re frothing milk, you’re introducing A LOT of air to the surface of the milk.
Serious Eats / Russell Kilgore
Heat also plays a part in milk frothing. When heat is applied to milk, the proteins in the milk will denature, or begin to unfold from the tight coils they’ve formed. As the proteins begin to unfold, they expose their two ends—one which is hydrophobic (hates water) and one hydrophilic (loves it!). The hydrophobic ends are grabbing air molecules to also create foam.
Other substances with protein will foam, but not as easily as milk and may be slightly less stable. Whole milk has, on average, 8 grams of protein per serving, while oat milk has 3 grams of protein. Both will froth, but it’ll take a little more aeration to achieve the same level of milk froth from in oat milk as whole milk. In the same vein, if you take a peek at your milk’s protein content, you can predict if it’ll foam easily. You will likely need to agitate your milk more when steaming any type of plant milk.
Fat: Fat works against foam—but only when it’s in a particular state. “As long as you get above about 40 degrees centigrade, all the fat is melted and it won't really destabilize anymore,” he says. When milk fats are either fully melted or fully solid (which happens when you freeze milk), they will not destabilize foam. It’s when there’s a mixture of crystalline and melted fats where milk fat can be a destabilizing factor.
Nonfat milk is the easiest milk to foam with and it’s very stable, but the foam it produces can become very stiff, almost "crunchy," if you introduce too much air into it. Whole milk, which is usually between 3-4% milk fats, is considered ideal for foam that is silky and smooth, like what you’re used to seeing in a cafe. And while I did test heavy whipping cream (which is 40% milk fats), it won't expand and get frothy like we see in a latte—it'll make whipped cream instead.
For testing, I looked for frothers that made smooth and shiny microfoam—where the air bubbles are so small that they form a cohesive, smooth, and homogenous texture. I evaluated the foam immediately after the frother was finished, since foam will separate from the milk and begin to rise to the top as it sits over time.
What Is Cold Foam?
One area of testing I felt like I needed to learn more about was cold foam. From my corner of the world, cold foam is a recent trend; it started showing up on Starbucks menus in 2018. I haven’t seen many specialty coffee shops utilize cold foam beyond whipped cream.
I asked a friend of mine, who used to work at Starbucks and would rather not be named, how they made their cold foam and they mentioned that Starbucks only uses nonfat milk and a high-powered blender, and the foam remains stable because there’s no fat to mess with it. But I didn’t understand the role of the high-powered blender.
Dr. Huppertz says, “What’s really happening is that they’re using these high-speed mixers. Air gets whipped into the milk, and the protein stabilizes the milk. Because of the very high agitation, it can also create very fine air bubbles, so you can get quite a nice foam.” A slower speed can create bigger, less delicate bubbles, Dr. Huppertz notes.
This last piece—about the speed of the frother—really helped me because I initially didn’t think the speed of the frother was that important. In their review on milk frothers, Cook’s Illustrated mentioned that they preferred a handheld frother that was slightly less powerful than similar models, which makes sense for hot drinks because you have more control of the frother. But I then considered the speed of the frother specifically when it came to cold foam.
Types of Milk Frothers
Serious Eats / Russell Kilgore
I tried three different styles of milk frothers: manual, handheld, and automatic. There wasn’t a huge difference in price between manual and handheld frothers, and for the amount of fussiness and work a manual frother requires, I determined that I preferred a handheld frother.
If you’re in a pinch, a French press will double as a milk frother, and I remain unconvinced that manual frothers are designed all that much differently from a French press. I tested a manual frother against a French press and found that both could make foam effectively, if not exceptionally well—both produced foam that had big bubbles and was inconsistent from use to use. The only slight difference was that the manual frother was thinner and was able to generate foam slightly faster, but not by much. If you want foam and do not want to invest in a new kitchen device, a French press can double as a milk frothing device.
Automatic frothers offered a different range of functions, so I separated them from handheld frothers and evaluated frothers in two groups. Most of the handheld frothers had very similar designs and rely heavily on technique (how you hold the frother, how long you froth the milk, the angle of the frother), so I put extra weight on design and usability for this group of frothers.
Lattes vs. Cappuccinos
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
Ah yes, the age old question: What is the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?
The answer: it depends. In general, a cappuccino is a small espresso drink, between 6-8 ounces, and is foamier than a latte. A test we used to do at a café I worked for was to push away the layer of foam on top of a drink with a spoon. If there’s still foam under, it’s a cappuccino. If there’s milk, it’s a latte.
That’s not true everywhere. At a lot of specialty coffee shops, lattes and cappuccinos are fairly similar, and differ only in size (usually you’ll see an eight-ounce cappuccino and a 12-ounce latte). If you go to more traditional places, a cappuccino might abide by the rule of thirds: a third espresso, a third milk, and a third foam. It’s like asking someone for the definitive martini recipe: you know the ingredients, you sort of have some rules about ratios, but in the end, what each coffee drink is called depends on where you are and who you’re asking.
Some of the automatic frothers I tried had two options: one for “dense” or “cappuccino” foam and one for “silky” or “latte” foam. Some machines, like the Miroco line, didn’t use the names cappuccino or latte and, in my opinion, made more foam than you need for either drink. The Breville machine outright named its two frothing options by the drink names, with the latte function truly making just a small layer of foam at the top while the cappuccino function expanded the milk to over double its size.
I considered an automatic frother’s ability to steam milk appropriately for both cappuccinos and lattes, but found that only the Breville was able to do this in any meaningful way. For some of the machines, the difference between “dense” and “silky” foam was only about an ounce more of foam—and the “silky” foam was usually double the volume of the cold milk used to make it, which is too foamy for a latte. I thought some of the machines made foam that was too foamy, but preferred that over milk that was under-aerated since you can scoop foam off the top of a foamy drink. You can take away, but you can’t add.
Is a Milk Frother Worth Buying?
You might be wondering if a milk frother is even worth it—what else would you use it for? There are a handful of unitask kitchen tools that are completely worth it, and I’d argue two things about a milk frother: one, it’s not a single-use tool and two, even if it was, if you’re making coffee every day, it’s totally worth it.
The Unitaskers That Belong in Your Kitchen
Regardless of whether you’re making coffee every day or once in a blue moon, I wanted to see what else these frothers could do. If the primary function of a milk frother is to introduce air into a liquid, where else can we apply this need? What other drinks can a milk frother make?
Why You Should Trust Us
So much of being a barista is being able to steam milk. Sure, you have to know how to pull excellent shots, but at every single coffee shop I’ve worked at, lattes and cappuccinos are either the most purchased drinks on the menu or second only to drip coffee. If I’m behind the bar, I can go a day without a person ordering a single shot of espresso. I can barely go ten minutes without steaming milk.
As a barista for the last ten years, I’ve steamed hundreds of thousands of drinks. I actually did the math—if I steamed a hundred drinks per shift, averaged four shifts a week for 50 weeks a year, that’s over 200,000 drinks. (I think that’s a conservative number.)
I’ve trained at least a few hundred baristas on the basics of milk steaming and science. As I trained new baristas, I used to say, “Making espresso is a skill you’ll learn quickly, but like any food, it's a lifelong exploration of getting to know your palate and what tastes good. Milk steaming sucks to learn but the moment you get it it’s like riding a bike. You’ll never forget. ”
When I’ve taught baristas about steaming milk, I’ve always relied on my senses—steaming milk is visual and tactile, but surprisingly, it’s also very auditory. Bad milk steaming sounds like a garbage disposal ate a bunch of metal gears. Good milk steaming sounds like a quiet hushing sound, almost like a train engine in the distance. That sensory approach informed the way I approach testing milk frothers. Steaming milk in a cafe isn’t the same as using at-home milk frothers, but the reliance on sensory information and trusting what you smell, taste, and see is a powerful tool that I’ve exercised through years of making coffee.
I also wrote the Serious Eats review of the best espresso machines.
The Testing
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
I evaluated a number of different features on each frother, and grouped them into three main testing protocols.
Test 1: Usability
To test how easy a machine was to use, I set a simple goal: I wanted to make a latte, and worked backwards from there. How easy was it to set up the frother? Did it need batteries? Was the interface straightforward or did you need to do a deep dive into the manual to even turn the machine on? I also looked for consistency—that was a major factor that separated the handheld frothers from the automatic ones, since there’s a human operating a handheld machine to make foam, so my results would be slightly inconsistent. I also evaluated how easy it was to clean the machine and if it came with extra parts in case something was lost.
Test 2: Quality of Milk Foam
For this test, I measured how much the milk expanded in each of my frothers on every setting each machine offered; I also assessed the quality of the foam made on those settings. I used two types of milk—Horizon Organic Milk because it’s available nationally and Oatly Oat Milk—and measured how each frother did with each milk.
Test 3: Versatility
To test how versatile each of the frothers were, I made hot chocolates using a Ghirardelli powdered hot chocolate mix; I also tried to make whipped cream in each frother. I measured how successful each was with these two tasks and if the frother left clumps of unincorporated hot chocolate mix or couldn’t whip well. Many of the frothers had an option for cold froth, and I evaluated the quality of cold foam and used both dairy and oat milk to see how well it made foam with each milk.
The Best Countertop Milk Frother: Miroco MI-MF001 Milk Frother
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What we liked: This is the highest rated electric milk frother on Amazon (the first six highest rated frothers are all handheld). For the balance of ease, versatility, and price, this Miroco model stood head and shoulders above all others.
Miroco makes a number of different frothers, and I tried three of their most popular ones. What sold me on this model specifically was its ergonomic design. The Miroco MI-MF001 is designed like a kettle, and you can pour your frothed milk directly into your hot cup of coffee. Some of the frothers I tested were cylinders with no handle and no place to pour milk out of, which meant milk often spilled down the sides.
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
This Miroco has a double walled stainless steel interior and comes with four whisk attachments: two for actually frothing milk and two for simply heating milk. I noticed that the Miroco anticipated that you’d lose a set of whisks and came with backup ones just in case. As a person who has lost teeny tiny screws specifically designed for espresso machines—which are not available in hardware stores and you have to call an espresso technician and cross your fingers they have extra—I appreciated this touch.
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
The whisk attachment meant to just heat up milk produces a slight layer of foam that I found totally acceptable for a latte. The whisk attachment meant to be used for frothing expanded the milk almost two and a half times more than its initial volume, which I found too foamy for a cappuccino, but I was simply able to skim off a little bit of the foam. Most of the other frothers that claimed to have two individual settings for drinks—one for lattes and one for cappuccinos—often produced milk I found too foamy for both drinks on each setting.
Every time I used the Miroco, the milk came out hot and the consistency of the milk was smooth and pleasant. Frothing took about two minutes—just enough time to get your cup of coffee ready or to pull a shot of espresso. The cold foam was a little bit strange with oat milk, but turned out well with whole milk.
What we didn't like: What you get in ease and simplicity you sacrifice in customization. The Miroco heats milk up to just under 160°F (71°C), which was plenty hot for me, but you can’t adjust the temperature. Also, plant milk steams differently than dairy milk, which you can’t account for when using the frother. When I put in dairy milk against an equal amount of oat milk, it was clear the oat milk didn’t froth as much, which is expected based on the interaction of proteins. But there’s no way for the machine to differentiate between dairy and plant milk. It's often out of stock, too.
Price at time of publish: $42.
Key Specs
- Froth: Hot and cold
- Auto shut-off: Yes
- Care instructions: Hand-wash
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
The Best Milk Frother Upgrade: Breville BMF600XL Milk Cafe Milk Frother
Buy on Walmart Buy on Abt.com Buy on Breville.com
What we liked: The Breville Milk Frother was the only frother out of the bunch that you could customize the temperature of the milk. It has a dial that ranges from a cool 100°F (38°C) to a range that they only describe as “hot” (the numbers stop after 160°F, but you can crank it up further). There’s a section on the dial where the Breville indicates the “ideal” frothing temperature is around 140°F, and you can also set it to make cold froth. If you’re steaming milk for folks who are sensitive to heat or for children, being able to control the temperature of the milk is a nice feature.
This model was also one of the biggest frothers I tested, comfortably making three cups of frothed milk, so everyone in your house can join the party. This wasn’t a big deal when I frothed milk to top my coffee since I only needed a few ounces, but as I was testing hot chocolates, my boyfriend came in and asked if there was any hot chocolate left over. If you’re making drinks where more people might want in—say you’re making hot chocolates for a crowd—the Breville is a great bet. If you’re steaming milk for one, you can also just pour a few ounces and the Breville can easily adjust to variations in the amount of milk used.
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
Out of all the machines I tested, this was the only frother that had seemingly unique whisk attachments. The Breville comes with two plastic whisks—you guessed it, one for lattes and one for cappuccinos—which differed in design from the wire coils in other frothers. However, the latte and cappuccino whisks from the Breville felt true to the drinks they were intended to make. While I did find the cappuccino to be slightly foamy, the foam the Breville made for a latte was spot on.
It’s easy to lose the small whisk attachments, which are both locked into place and magnetically attached to the bottom. But while you’re using one of the whisks, there’s a small compartment for the unused one on the back of the machine. The cord to plug in the machine also wraps around the bottom to make storage easy.
What we didn't like: This was the most expensive frother I tested, so if you’re looking to simply froth milk for your morning coffee, perhaps one of the other picks is a good bet. If you want to get specific on the details, then there’s no better option than the Breville.
Price at time of publish: $150.
Key Specs
- Froth: Hot and cold
- Auto shut-off: Yes
- Care instructions: Hand-wash jug, lid, lid seal, measuring cap, and disc; wipe exterior with a damp cloth; two attachments are dishwasher-safe
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
The Best Handheld Milk Frother: The Golde Superwhisk
Buy on Golde. co
What we liked: Golde is a brand that makes wellness products that you can mix into your drinks, like matcha powders and turmeric superfoods. Almost all of their products can be used as a base for latte-like drinks, which is where the Superwhisk comes in. The photos of the Superwhisk are clearly staged for Instagram, and my box came with a sticker sheet including an illustration of a papaya. I was intrigued.
All of the handheld frothers were designed very similarly—they were long, had a button or a switch to turn them on, and had a small circular coil at the end that rotates over and over. Some had a double coil and some a single coil, which I didn’t think made any perceptible difference.
The Golde frother has two speeds: powerful and very powerful, and I found that I liked the first speed option for hot drinks and the second speed option for making cold foam.
What really set the Golde apart was its design. Some of the milk frothers came with stands, meant to display your milk frother on the counter, which I thought was both an impractical storage solution and a bad use of kitchen space. The Golde comes with a cap, so you can stash it in your kitchen tools drawer or take it with you on the road. It’s also USB rechargeable, so you’re not cycling through AA batteries every few days.
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
One thing the Golde—and all the handheld frothers—did better than any of the countertop frothers was make whipped cream. The countertop frothers had a fixed whisk, and as the heavy whipping cream slowly turned to whipped cream, I noticed that the cream closest to the whisk attachment was getting over-whipped while the cream on the sides of the frother was still runny. With the Golde, you can move the whisk around and ensure the whipped cream is homogeneously frothed.
Cleaning was a breeze. Many of the frothers were one single piece, but the end of the Golde comes off easily and makes cleaning a snap. I didn’t expect to love something that's clearly designed for Instagram as much as I did, but I kind of think this whisk can do it all. I especially liked using this whisk for plant-based milks, since I knew I had to froth and aerate the milk more to achieve the same consistency as I would get with dairy milk.
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
What we didn't like: Cold foam was a tricky endeavor, and I had to readjust my frothing approach. Although the milk frothed and expanded quickly, it also fell quickly if I didn’t spend time incorporating the milk with the froth, which you can do by plunging the frothing coil, preventing any more air from being introduced to the milk but still agitating and moving the milk around. If I only frothed for a few seconds, the cold foam fell quickly. Eventually, all foam will fall, but the longer I spent incorporating the froth, the longer the froth held up. This isn't necessary a con—just something to note about this frother.
Price at time of publish: $24.
Key Specs
- Froth: Cold
- Auto shut-off: No
- Care instructions: Hand-wash
Serious Eats / Ashley Rodriguez
The Competition
- Elita Double Whisk Handheld Milk Frother: This handheld whisk produced some large foam bubbles and ultimately didn’t measure up to our top handheld pick.
- Rösle Stainless Steel Dual Speed Frother: Despite costing a fair amount for a handheld frother, this model wasn't super powerful.
- Instant Pot Milk Frother: Though this model did produce a nice foam quality, it was tricky to seat the whisk properly and was outperformed by our top picks.
- Vava Electric Milk Frother: The Vava's frothing and mixing capabilities just didn't cut it compared to our top picks.
- Capresso Froth Max Milk Frother: At nearly twice the price of our top overall pick, this model from Capresso was inconsistent and struggled to produce a tight foam with whole milk.
- Keurig Standalone Frother: The foam generated by this Keurig frother collapsed quickly, and its higher price point was hard to justify given its poor performance.
- Ninja Coffee Bar Easy Milk Frother: As I mentioned, I wasn’t 100% convinced that a manual frother like the Ninja Coffee Bar Easy Milk Frother was any different than a French press. The Ninja did froth milk quicker than the French Press, but the froth was like dish soap in texture.
- Bodum Brazil French Press: As a control, I used a Bodum Brazil French press to froth, and it worked pretty similarly to the Ninja frother—and also produced big, dishwater-y bubbles.
- Zulay Original Milk Frother Handheld Foam Maker for Lattes: With the Zulay Original Milk Frother Handheld Foam Maker, you have to continuously press down on a button on the top to activate—one user in the comments noted that this was easier for them to use due to mobility issues. However, the Zulay is battery-powered and getting the batteries in was a struggle. It also comes with a display stand, so if you want to store your frother on the counter, that’s great, but I imagine most people are looking to clear their counters, so the stand is sort of unnecessary.
- PowerLix Milk Pro: Although advertised as a different frother, the PowerLix Milk Pro is virtually identical to the Zulay—even down to the box instructions that prompt you on how to activate the frother’s warranty. Both the Zulay and the Milk Pro come with a lifetime guarantee, so that might be a plus for people who want to invest in their equipment for a long time.
- Aerolatte Milk Frother: I’ve had an Aerolatte Milk Frother for years—it’s the original manual milk frother, but the batteries run out quickly and the plastic coating gets grimy over time.
- FoodVille MF05 Rechargeable Milk Frother: The FoodVille MF05 Rechargeable Milk Frother has three speed settings, which I found unnecessary since the slowest speed frothed up milk in seconds. I did like that it was rechargeable and the frothing whisk came off, which made cleaning up easy and it has a whisk (like, an actual whisk, not one designed for frothing) attachment for mixing other items.
- Nespresso Aeroccino 3: In our review of espresso machines, we noted that one of the models we tested came with a Nespresso Aeroccino 3. This Aeroccino model can make both hot and cold froth, but I needed to read the manual and then watch a YouTube video to figure that out since it wasn’t explained on the box. For $100, there are better models that have a similar design.
- Nespresso Aeroccino 4: The Nespresso Aeroccino 4 was maybe the most pleasant frother to handle, but the Breville was $20 less and offered more frothing options.
- Bodum Bistro Electric Milk Frother: It was incredibly easy to use the Bodum Bistro Electric Milk Frother, but it only has one mode and can’t make both cold and hot froth, which other models in a similar price range could. I believe this is temperature-controlled rather than operating on a timer because every now and then, if I let the milk sit and forgot to press the “off” button, it’d just start frothing up again. The Miroco line of frothers offered more frothing choices at around the same price.
- Miroco MI-MF002: There was a point where the battle for the best countertop frother was between two Miroco models: the Miroco MI-MF001 and the Miroco MI-MF002. Both are around the same price and offer the same features, but I felt like the MF001 was better designed and easier to pour from.
- Miroco Detachable Milk Frother: The Miroco Detachable Milk Frother is $20 more than the two previously mentioned Miroco models, but didn’t offer much more in terms of options. I thought it might be a direct competitor to the Breville, but the Breville has really specific options that make it a good investment for coffee lovers and their only similarities are in the outward design of the frother.
- Smeg Milk Frother: We did not include this model in our testing, as $230 for a milk frother seems excessive (our favorite upgrade model from Breville costs $150). You can even buy a quality coffee maker for far less.
FAQs
How do you use a milk frother?
This depends on the kind of milk frother you have. With electric milk frothers, you pour milk into the machine (pay attention to what its minimum and maximum capacities are), put the cap on, and then, if the machine has multiple settings, select how you would like your milk frothed before turning it on. If you have a handheld milk frother, add milk to a deep container (like a tall measuring cup or mug), stick the whisk end of the frother into the milk, then turn on the frother, using an up and down motion to froth. Because handheld frothers, unlike electric frothers, can't heat up milk, if you want hot frothed milk with a handheld frother (like for a latte), you'll have to heat up the milk prior to frothing.
Can you froth oat milk with a milk frother?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can froth all non-dairy milks using a milk frother—just note that some non-dairy milks might not froth as well as dairy milk or may take longer to froth.
What does a milk frother do?
Simply put, a good milk frother incorporates air into milk, producing microfoam. Milk frothers can also heat milk, which begins to denature the proteins in milk, contributing to frothing. As we explained in this story, when proteins in milk denature, they "begin to unfold from the tight coils they’ve formed. As the proteins begin to unfold, they expose their two ends—one which is hydrophobic (hates water) and one hydrophilic (loves it!). The hydrophobic ends are grabbing air molecules to also create foam."
Is a milk frother worth it?
If you make your own coffee drinks at home, then you'll likely appreciate a milk frother. An electric milk frother (like that of the Miroco or Breville) can also be used to heat and froth hot chocolate.
We Tested 13 Espresso Machines to Find the Best Ones, Depending on Your Needs
The best heated milk frothers in 2022
For some, coffee is just a drink, but for others it is a real art. To create not only tasty, but also beautiful cappuccino, you need a good cappuccino maker. But how to choose a quality assistant? Which are the best cappuccinatore manufacturers? This and much more will be discussed in this review.
Contents
- 1 Best Cappuccinators
- 1.1 Nespresso Aeroccino3
- 1.2 VITEK VT-5000W
- 1.3 Oursson MF 2500
- 1.4 Cremio II Melitta 21561
- 1.5 Clatronic MS 3326
- 1.6 Gretti MF-11
- 1.7 Gastrorag DK-003
- 1.8 Kitfort KT-712
- 1.9 Caso Fomini Crema
- 1.10 Philips Milk Twister
- 2 Summary
The best milk frothers
Today there are several models of milk frothers:
- automatic;
- mechanical.
In an automatic milk frother, milk is mixed with steam, while in a mechanical milk frother it is frothed directly by a mechanical unit in a special bowl. The first option is more often used in coffee machines, while the second option is used as separate equipment.
Cappuccinators are also classified according to the presence of capacity:
- manual frothers;
- with mechanical bowl;
- with magnetic bowl.
Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of models, you can make a rating of the best of them.
Model | Capacity | Power | Weight | Average price, rub |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nespresso Aeroccino3 | 250 ml | 410-490 W | 1 kg | 4000 |
VITEK VT-5000 W | 250 ml | 500 W | 1.32 kg | 2500 |
Oursson MF 2500 | 250 ml | 500 W | 900 g | 2500 |
Cremio II Melitta 21561 | 250 ml | 450 W | 965 g | 4500 |
Clatronic MS 3326 | 450 ml | 600 W | 1. 6 kg | 4700 |
Gretti MF-11 | 250 ml | 500 W | 1 kg | 2200 |
Gastrorag DK-003 | 240 ml | 500 W | 1.15 kg | 3200 |
Kitfort KT-712 | 760ml | 600W | 970g | 3200 |
Caso Fomini Crema | 200 ml | 435 W | 690 g | 4799 |
Philips Milk Twister | 120 ml | 420 W | 600 g | 6490 |
Which type of cappuccino froth is considered the best? It is difficult to answer this question, as the opinions of users are divided. After all, each model has its pros and cons. Cappuccinators with a bowl are rightfully considered the best, therefore, this review is provided for their work.
Nespresso Aeroccino3
The Nespresso Aeroccino3 is considered one of the best milk frothers. In general, user reviews are similar, they claim that this model works with a bang, although there are some drawbacks.
Nespresso Aeroccino3 is made in the form of a glass with a whisk inside. The body is available in different colors to choose from:
- black;
- white;
- red.
The milk is poured in and the cappuccinatore is switched on from the mains. Within 40 seconds, he froths the milk. The quality of foaming depends on the milk and its fat content.
Cappuccinatore has several modes:
- heated frothing;
- cold frothing.
The interior is delicate and should be washed with a soft sponge after use. Not intended for use in a dishwasher.
The disadvantages of many users include the fact that this model is difficult to find in the store, as a rule, it comes with coffee machines.
Nespresso Aeroccino3
Advantages:
- several modes;
- stylish and user-friendly design;
- choice in several colors;
- silent operation;
- simple operation;
- frothing milk in less than 1 minute;
Disadvantages:
- quite expensive;
- difficult to find in the store, usually come with coffee machines;
- requires careful use;
- not dishwasher safe.
VITEK VT-5000W
VITEK VT-5000 W milk frother has an internal non-stick coating and a magnetic whisk. This allows you to wash off any burns and whisk milk in silent mode.
Externally, the cappuccinatore is made in the form of a mug, with a handle, in white cone shape. There is a gray translucent cover on top, and a black on/off button on the bottom side.
The kit includes the container itself, a magnetic whisk, a lid and a stand that plugs into a power outlet.
VITEK VT-5000 W milk frother has 3 modes:
- hot frothing;
- cold foaming;
- baby food warmer.
Switch modes with one button. The time of foaming and heating depends on the volume of the liquid.
According to buyers, the VITEK VT-5000 W cappuccinatore is a worthy model for use by lovers of coffee with milk. He copes well with his duties, besides the additional function, heating baby food, makes it multifunctional.
cappuccinatore VITEK VT-5000 W
Advantages:
- 3 modes;
- the presence of the function of heating baby food;
- silent operation;
- simple operation;
- Protection for dry or insufficient operation.
Disadvantages:
- mode change with one button, sometimes confuses modes;
- requires careful use;
- is not a budget option.
Oursson MF 2500
The Oursson MF 2500 milk frother is perfect for cappuccino and latte lovers, as well as other cocktails requiring foam. In addition to the mechanical nozzle, the cappuccinatore has a heating element, which contributes to the presence of several modes:
- heated liquid foaming;
- foaming troubles heating;
- heating without foaming, it is suitable for heating baby food.
The design of the Oursson MF 2500 Cappuccinatore resembles a mug, with a handle on the side. There is a large selection of different color models to choose from, from classic to vibrant. There is a cover at the top, and one button at the bottom of the case, with which the modes are switched. The inside of the bowl is coated with a non-stick coating.
Includes:
- bowl with lid;
- stand with wire for connection to the mains;
- whisk.
There are no complaints about the operation of this model. Oursson MF 2500 beats dense foam well in a short period of time. Although, there is a question about the sound mode of the cappuccinatore.
Oursson MF 2500
Advantages:
- 3 modes;
- baby food heating mode;
- many different body colors;
- simple operation;
- long cord.
Disadvantages:
- some users note that it does not always work in silent mode;
- requires careful use;
- is not a budget option.
Cremio II Melitta 21561
The Cremio II Melitta 21561 milk frother claims to be able to froth any milk, even soy milk.
The Cappuccinatore looks like a drink jug. The model has two color options:
- black;
- white.
On the top side there is a handle, on the bottom there are two buttons for switching on and off, as well as for changing the modes, of which there are three in this device:
- simultaneous foaming and heating of milk;
- foaming only;
- only heating, by the way, I use it to heat baby food.
Additional features include open lid operation protection, i.e. the frother will not work until the lid is clicked closed.
The inside of the bowl is non-stick coated.
Cappuccinatore operating mode is characterized by color backlit buttons. If the red light is on, the milk or other liquid is being heated. The operation of the blue indicator indicates the operation of the foamer without a heating element.
Cremio II Melitta 21561
Advantages:
- three modes;
- baby food can be heated;
- cover open protection;
- simple operation.
Disadvantages:
- high price for this technique;
- requires careful use.
Clatronic MS 3326
Cappuccinatore Clatronic MS 3326 is more suitable for a few lovers of coffee with milk foam or cocktails. This confirms the volume of the bowl of this model, which is 450 ml.
The Clatronic MS 3326 frother is made in the form of a mug with a handle, standing in a special stand. The bowl itself rotates 360 about and has a non-stick coating inside. The case is made in black and silver. The mode control and power buttons are located on the stand.
This cappuccinatore model has several modes:
- warm frothing;
- cold foaming;
- heating.
There are three buttons on the body of the stand, each of which corresponds to one of the modes. The indicator light tells you which mode is currently on.
The milk frother model in question has a high rating and is very popular. Sufficient quality work contributes to this.
Clatronic MS 3326
Advantages:
- large volume;
- 3 operating modes;
- great functionality;
- simple use;
- it is possible to heat up various liquids;
- on the mug is a convenient pouring spout.
Weaknesses:
- high price;
- requires careful use;
- must not be used in a dishwasher.
Gretti MF-11
Gretti MF-11 milk frother has a mechanical milk frothing system. It should be noted that the principle of its operation is similar to other similar models.
Comes with bowl with frothing nozzle and plug-in stand. The design of Gretti MF-11 is similar to a mug, that is, with a handle on the side. At the bottom is a mode switch button, and above it are indicators showing which mode is currently running. Cappuccinatore froths milk with heating, up to 70 0 With and without, every lover chooses according to his taste.
The set also includes two attachments - knives, which is not the case with every model. Although there are questions about the quality of work for one of them.
Non-stick coating on the inside and silver color on the outside. The container is closed with a transparent but airtight lid. This allows you to observe all the work inside.
Users' opinions agree that the quality of the Gretti MF-11 cappuccinatore is high and there are no claims against the manufacturer.
Gretti MF-11
Advantages:
- several operating modes;
- stylish design;
- two nozzles included;
- is easy to operate.
Disadvantages:
- not democratic price;
- requires careful handling.
Gastrorag DK-003
Gastrorag DK-003 is not only a milk frother but also a heater. The last function contributes to the presence of several modes:
- foaming with heating;
- unheated milk frothing;
- heating without foaming.
Liquid heating reaches 65 0 C, which, in principle, is not a high temperature for heating, but sufficient for foam.
The model is available in several colors, silver and grey. It is made in the form of a mug with a handle for easy pouring. The bowl is covered with a transparent plastic lid. One of the advantages is its double walls with non-stick coating. Gastrorag DK-003 is considered to be a desktop one, as evidenced by its miniature dimensions.
The package includes the bowl itself, two nozzles and a stand with heating elements, which is connected to the network.
Users who have already tried this model say that it does its job perfectly and silently froths thick foam.
Gastrorag DK-003
Advantages:
- several modes;
- great functionality;
- double wall;
- stylish and pleasant design;
- non-stick coating.
Faults:
- must be handled with care and washed.
Kitfort KT-712
The Kitfort KT-712 Cappuccinatore differs in its appearance from similar models, but the foaming quality is not the worst.
This model of milk frother has a lot of functionality, in addition to frothing milk, it can also heat milk or other sauces without mixing. Has several modes:
- foaming with heating;
- foaming without heating;
- heating only.
Outwardly, it looks more like a mini coffee maker, a large bowl on a stand. For convenience, a handle with an unusual design is attached to the bowl. On the stand there is one button, with the help of which the modes and on / off are regulated.
Comes with two frothing and mixing attachments, the bowl itself and a stand for it, which plugs into a power outlet.
Model Kitfort KT-712 operates silently and switches off automatically. Frothing milk into a thick foam occurs quickly and efficiently.
Kitfort KT-712
Advantages:
- great functionality;
- multiple operating modes;
- two nozzles for mixing and foaming;
- quiet operation;
- stylish and original design;
- automatic shutdown.
Weaknesses:
- not budget price;
- non-stick coating, requires careful washing.
Caso Fomini Crema
The Caso Fomini Crema milk frother looks like a thermal mug, with a rubber insert for comfort at high temperatures. There are two color options on the market:
- black;
- stainless steel.
The bowl is sealed with a transparent plastic lid. Inside the container has a non-stick coating and stands for nozzles. At the bottom of the case there are two mode control buttons. By the way, there are three of them in this model:
- hot milk frothing;
- cold frothing of milk;
- heating without foaming.
The package includes the bowl itself, a stand with a cord for connecting to the mains, as well as several nozzles for foaming and heating.
This cappuccinatore is suitable for preparing various drinks such as cappuccino, latte or warming baby food.
The manufacturer has also provided for an easy foamer washing process. Soapy water is poured into the bowl, foaming with heating is turned on and thus the cappuccinatore washes itself.
In everyday life Caso Fomini Crema proved to be the best way. It perfectly froths milk into a fairly thick foam.
Caso Fomini Crema
Advantages:
- 3 modes;
- great functionality;
- provides an easy way to wash;
- stylish design;
- compact;
- several attachments.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- handle missing.
Philips Milk Twister
The Philips Milk Twister froths milk into thick foam in 130 seconds, according to the manufacturer. In principle, these indicators are also possible in other similar models.
Philips Milk Twister looks like a tin can with a convenient stand. The inner surface of the container has a non-stick coating. The body itself is made of plastic. At the bottom of the case is one red button to change modes.
This model is designed for cold or hot milk frothing, as well as mixing or heating. The manufacturer claims that it is also perfect for making even ordinary tea with milk.
Small volume, 120 ml, designed to make foam for two mugs. Which in general is not bad and is suitable for a small company.
The package includes the bowl itself, stand, nozzles and instructions for using the device.
Philips Milk Twister
Advantages:
- multiple mode;
- great functionality;
- stylish and compact design;
- easy to operate;
- some parts of the milk frother can be washed in the dishwasher.
Disadvantages:
- high price;
- handle or similar attachment is not provided if the bowl is hot;
- small volume.
Total
After analyzing the best models of cappuccinators, you can answer the question that worries many, “which one is better to buy?”.
As mentioned above, there are many variations of milk frother. Heated stationary ones are the best. They are suitable for coffee machines, as well as for regular Turkish coffee. An additional advantage is their great functionality, not limited to foaming milk.
There are various designs, volumes and dimensions available on the market. Each consumer chooses according to his taste and wallet. Although, regarding the price of cappuccinators, it should be noted that high cost is not a guarantee of quality work. There are budget models that do their job just as well as expensive ones.
When choosing a frother, it is worth considering that the key to thick foam is the peculiarity of milk, and this rating will help you choose a high-quality cappuccinatore.
Best Milk Frother (manual, automatic, etc.)
Getting the perfect froth for a latte, flat white or cappuccino is perhaps the best way to start your morning. The feeling of victory you get after getting hit in the head goes great with freshly brewed creamy, frothy coffee.
While we'd all like to say that lattes at home are just as good as they are at the coffee shop, the truth is that getting the perfect foam can be a real challenge. This will require choosing among the best coffee makers and the best milk frothers.
At a Glance:
- Best Milk Frother: Breville Dairy Café
- Budget Pick: Powerlix Milk Frother
- Aerolatte: Best Portable
Behold the milky lie
First of all, let's dispel a few myths about the world of frothing milk.
- You need an expensive machine to froth milk properly. WRONG! Remember that the best milk frothers (or even the best coffee makers) are not necessarily the most expensive. While most espresso machines come with a steam wand for steaming and frothing milk, you can buy a separate inexpensive milk frother that does the job. If you're really on a budget, you can even find ways to froth milk with things you might already have in your kitchen. There is no general best way to approach this, just the best way for you, so keep reading to find out what it is!
- Steaming and frothing milk are the same thing. WRONG AGAIN! Although these are similar processes, they are different and produce milk for different coffee recipes. Wait and we will explain more about it.
- All milk frothers are the same. Uh! There are two main categories of milk frothers, each with many options to choose from. There are foamers that vary in speed, user control, heating power, and of course style. We're going to break down these two types, manual and automatic, and give you our favorite options for each!
Now that we have the most common misconceptions out of the way, we can delve into the nuts and bolts of the best milk frother options. We have blowers for almost every specification in our range: economical, environmentally friendly, customizable foam, super convenient and simple no frills.
6 best milk frothers
Product | Details | Button | |
---|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Breville Dairy Cafe |
| View on Amazon |
Second place | Secura milk frother |
| View on Amazon |
Budget selection | Milk Frother PowerLix |
| WATCH ON AMAZONE |
Aerolatte milk frother |
| View on Amazon | |
Manual frother Cafe Casa |
| View on Amazon | |
Nespresso Aerochino 3 |
| WATCH ON AMAZONE |
Breville Dairy Cafe
Best Overall
- Allows better control and tuning
- Supplied with latte and cappuccino disc.
- Dishwasher safe
View on Amazon
Secura milk frother
Second place
- Available in two sizes
- Allows users to heat milk while it is frothing
- Elegant design in stainless steel
View on Amazon
Milk Frother PowerLix
Budget selection
- Available
- Easy to use
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
WATCH ON AMAZON
Aerolatte milk frother
- Simple and efficient
- Works with different milks
- Travel models available
View on Amazon
Manual frother Cafe Casa
- Stainless steel body for higher speed and accuracy
- Has 2 speeds
- Easy to clean
View on Amazon
Nespresso Aerochino 3
- compact
- powerful
- Can froth up to 120 ml of milk
WATCH ON AMAZON
Now that we've dispelled a few myths and explained the importance of this coffee brewing accessory, it's time to compare the best milk frothers for your coffee drink.
1. Breville Dairy Cafe - Best Overall
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
VIEW ON AMAZON
Users can select the desired temperature, foam type and simply turn on the machine. When the milk foam is ready, the frother will automatically turn off and you can pour milk. We also like that the induction milk jug is dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean.
This Breville electric frother has a brushed stainless steel finish. It comes with a measuring cap that allows you to add additional ingredients to your milk once frothing has begun - say hello to the best chai latte, hot chocolate and chocolate cappuccino you will ever have! While Breville does not provide any other accessories for this foamer, all of its parts are available for individual purchase online, so you can have it repaired if it malfunctions.
2. Secura milk frother - Second place
SPECIFICATIONS
VIEW ON AMAZONE
The Secura Automatic Milk Frother takes all the guesswork out of making milk and is also arguably the best value buy. In addition to two sizes - 250 ml and 500 ml - this frother also gives users the ability to heat the milk as it is frothed.
The stainless steel body features state-of-the-art vacuum insulation that keeps your milk hot and long-lasting, backed by a two-year Secura warranty.
Sleek design looks good on almost any kitchen countertop and is easy to keep clean. This electric milk frother comes with a cleaning brush and can be washed with just hot water to ensure you get the best taste and texture of milk every time you use it.
3. PowerLix manual milk frother - Budget choice
SPECIFICATIONS
-
Affordable
- Easy to use
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
VIEW ON AMAZON
For the price of approximately 3 cappuccinos, you can get perfectly frothed milk for an endless supply of lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, hot chocolates and homemade foamy drinks. For this reason, Powerlix may be the best hand blower.
This easy-to-use, battery-operated PowerLix Frother stainless steel whisk spins at 19,000 rpm, turning milk into beautiful foam in seconds. Two AA batteries are not included, so you may want to consider a more environmentally friendly and economical option: rechargeable NiMH batteries.
This milk frother is very easy to use, with one on/off button located on the top of the frother for a comfortable grip. While it can't be washed in the dishwasher, cleaning it is as easy as dipping a whisk in hot soapy water and turning it on. We also love that the PowerLix Milk Frother comes with a Lifetime Warranty, by far the best among the competition - PowerLix believes in this Frother as much as we do.
4. Aerolatte milk frother - The best manual milk frother
SPECIFICATIONS
-
Simple and effective
- Works with different milks
- Travel models available
LOOK ON AMAZONE
Manual milk frothers are now commonplace in kitchens, but Aerolatte claims to be "the original steamless milk frother". The invention meant there was now a quick and affordable way to enjoy cappuccino at home - no steam wand required.
The brand's product range has now expanded, but the blowing agent remains simple and effective. The whisk itself is made from food grade 18/8 stainless steel and can froth any milk (including milk powder) and dairy-free options like hemp milk or almond milk. For the body, you have the choice of stainless steel, BPA-free plastic in a variety of colors, or a fun cow print.
For heavy users, there is an Aerolatte with a stand so you can keep it close at hand on your countertop. Or, if you only use the manual frother when you're away from your home espresso machine, you can opt for the travel case version.
5. Cafe Casa manual milk frother - The most durable
SPECIFICATIONS
LOOK ON AMAZON
Cafe Casa is a classic favorite milk frother that is guaranteed to provide the best fluffy creamy froth for all the drinks you desire. Unlike the PowerLix and Kuwan, this frother has two different speed settings, one running at 13,000 RPM and the other running at 15,000 RPM.
It is slightly heavier than competing milk frothers, giving it a solid feel to match its high performance. The stainless steel milk frother body is one of the best in terms of accuracy and speed, and is also easy to clean. Cafe Casa runs on two AA batteries, allowing you to use it wirelessly.
Buying an automatic milk frother is definitely a step up from an affordable portable version, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Even if you need some of the seemingly more upscale features.
6. Nespresso Aerochino 3 - Best for Pod Machines
SPECIFICATIONS
-
compact
- powerful
- Can froth up to 120 ml of milk
WATCH ON AMAZON
This small yet powerful electric milk frother designed by Nespresso is the best option for those who need enough milk for one latte or cappuccino at a time. It is easy to operate and can froth up to 120 ml of milk. The Aeroccino 3, the third version in Nespresso's milk frother range, features an updated narrow base that saves countertop space while still being a stylish addition to your kitchen.
This electric milk frother also has the ability to heat and froth milk individually or simultaneously, so you can choose how you like your drink. Although the price of this compact Aeroccino is noticeably higher than the Secura, it has an energy-saving mode, making it the best option for environmentally conscious shoppers looking for an automatic foamer. Although it cannot be washed in the dishwasher, the camera is easy to clean with a soft cloth and warm water.
Things to consider when buying a milk frother
So you love lattes, cappuccinos and other milky drinks. What factors and features should you look for in a milk frother? Let's talk a little more about foaming features and best industry standards.
Steam vs. Froth
Unless you're a barista or are already into the sophisticated world of milk/coffee drinks, you probably don't quite understand the difference between steamed and frothed milk. Although these two methods of making milk are very similar, they are still different.
Steaming milk is the process of using hot steam to heat milk and introduce air bubbles, giving it a rich, creamy texture that turns your latte into a liquid velvet. You can froth milk or froth it with a steam wand, but steam wands have traditionally focused on coffee recipes that require more frothed milk and less frothed milk, such as latte or flat white (1).
Steamed milk is less dense than frothed milk, although it may still have some foam on it.
Gaggia Milano
Milk frothing, whether you use hot or cold milk, is a process that is purely about adding air to the milk. Thus, the milk frother does not need to include a heating element. Whether you choose to froth or steam your milk, your goal is to "stretch" or aerate the milk to get the best possible microfoam (2).
If you've ever been in a coffee shop and heard the typical cafe sound, it's stretching, it's aeration, it's air blown into milk. This creates bubbles.
Chris Baca, "Cat and Cloud Coffee"
You can froth milk with a range of tools, from the simplest to the most complex. Naturally, you can use a manual or automatic frother, but those are not the only options. The best DIY methods include churning milk in a glass jar, using a French press, and even using an immersion blender or hand mixer, although this can get a little messy. Check out our article on how to make fluffy milk foam at home to learn more.
Then, of course, it is possible to froth milk using the steam wand found on most espresso machines. To get the best foam with a steam wand, keep the end of the wand as close to the surface of the milk as possible so that you can draw as much air into the milk as possible.
Portable vs automatic
Manual and automatic milk frothers are some of the best tools for creating smooth and tasty microfoam. Both of these types of frother can froth hot or cold milk, so you can make just about any drink you like.
Manual frothers are generally ergonomic, battery operated machines that use a small whisk to froth milk in seconds. While most models are easy to use, this type of milk frother requires more effort on your part as it cannot be left alone in milk - so get in there and froth your milk!
On the other hand, automatic milk frothers do all the work for you. Simply pour milk into the frother, close it and turn it on.
Automatic milk frothers completely eliminate effort and human error.
Although these milk frothers are generally more expensive than their manual counterparts, many of them offer a steam function so you can easily froth hot or cold milk. Neither the manual nor the automatic frother require additional accessories, although many manufacturers produce different whisks for different purposes. various types of coffee drinks.
Technique
Whether you have a manual or automatic milk frother, you need to determine how much cold milk you need to start to get the right amount of milk for your coffee.
Note: Read our reviews of the best home coffee roasters if you want to roast beans at home.
Depending on the type of drink you are making, you will aerate the milk to varying degrees, increasing its volume by creating microfoam.
Lattes typically require 25% milk aeration, while traditional cappuccinos require 50% aeration.3). This means for 8 oz. latte, you will need to start with 5.25 oz. milk so that the total amount of steamed milk is 7 ounces, leaving room for 1 ounce. espresso. Likewise for 8 oz. cappuccino, you will need to start with just 3.5 ounces of milk so that when it doubles in volume, you have 7 ounces of beautifully frothed milk.
Now that you know how to determine the optimal amount of milk for coffee, let's talk about technology. Naturally, if you choose an automatic milk frother, you don't have to worry about the physical technique, just turn on the frother and let the magic happen!
While frothing milk with a manual frother is easy, we have a few tips to help you get the best latte or cappuccino.
Tip #1: Move the frother around in the milk. As with the steam wand on an espresso machine, you need to move the milk frother to achieve the whirlpool or "whirlwind" movement of the milk.
Tip #2: Make sure the milk frother is inserted deep into the container so that the texture of the milk is even. A stationary frother in only one area can lead to different milk densities, resulting in an unsatisfactory cappuccino.
Before you finish
We hope you appreciate the importance of using a milk frother when preparing espresso drinks. In the same way, using certain accessories like coffee scales and the best gooseneck teapots can help you make more delicious coffee if you love this type of coffee too.
While, of course, espresso - like the freshness of the beans - is a key part of any latte, cappuccino or flat white, it's often the milk that makes or breaks the drink. The velvety, fluffy texture of milk seeping into every sip is a big part of why the best days tend to start with a delicious, creamy cappuccino or latte.
Unfortunately, buying any of these more "ready-made" coffee drinks at a coffee shop will end up hitting your wallet hard and really limiting your ability to get a latte exactly the way you like it. The best milk frother for you, whether automatic or manual, will allow you to make delicious coffee recipes in your own kitchen for a fraction of what you would pay at any of these coffee shops.
Verdict
Frothing milk at home gives you access to a whole new world of hot and cold frothy drinks. If you love frothing by hand, any of our favorite portable options will work for you.
Automatic milk frother is the best machine for those of us who want convenience at the touch of a button to keep the perfect homemade taste. We love and recommend all of these milk frothers. Get one for yourself or get one as a gift for a coffee lover! Don't forget to share your choice with us in the comments.
FAQ
The generally accepted best temperature for frothing milk is around 140 degrees Fahrenheit or 60 degrees Celsius. As the milk is heated, the protein structures and fats break down and change shape, creating tiny bubbles or microfoam that give it a nice frothy texture.
Coffee experts and baristas say 140 degrees is the best temperature because both the texture and taste of the milk are at their peak of balance. (4)
While heating the milk a little above or below 140 degrees won't be catastrophic for your coffee, the best flavor and foam come together at this point. Once the milk gets too hot, you will start to lose the sweet taste and it will eventually become unpalatable, and too cold means it's unlikely you'll get the smooth, frothy texture you want.
If you have ever heated milk on the stove, you have seen that two different films can form. The first is milk foam, which forms on the surface of milk as a result of coagulation of proteins when heat is applied. (5) Although this is a natural phenomenon, there is no doubt that it looks bad and certainly breaks the texture of the milk. Milk froth is easy to avoid, just stir the milk as it heats up so these proteins can't pool together on the surface.
The second strange by-product of heating milk is the light film that usually forms on the surface of the pan. This phenomenon is essentially the same as the formation of milk foam. (6)
To avoid this problem, you can apply a small amount of coconut oil to the pan to keep the milk from sticking, or just add a tablespoon or two of water before adding the milk. This lubricates the pan just as it does when cooking without changing the flavor of the milk too much. For best results, keep stirring the milk as you heat it up.
Three of the most popular hot milk coffee drinks are latte, cappuccino and flat white. While they all have their differences, the exact composition of each often depends on where you order it from.
Those readers currently visiting or living in Italy may have noticed that "latte" in Italian simply means "milk". When ordering a latte in a cafe, you will receive a glass of warm milk, and a latte in a cafe is a traditional espresso with foamed milk and a delicate layer of milk foam. If you want to learn how to make latte at home, here is our step by step guide.
Cappuccino is the frothiest of the three drinks, containing equal parts coffee, frothed milk and milk foam. Coffee expert James Hoffmann points out that while a cappuccino is typically 1 part espresso, 1 part frothed milk, and 1 part foam, this recipe has evolved over time. With the popularization of latte art, cappuccino now often has less foam and may include two shots of espresso instead of one. (7)
"Drink in general is more of an idea than a strict recipe." — James Hoffmann
Flat white, unlike cappuccino, includes a double shot of espresso and steamed milk with a very fine texture - hence the name "flat". Readers should note that this recipe is also flexible, especially since flat whites are most popular in Oceania and can therefore be very different when ordered from an American or European coffee shop.
References
- Gaggia Milano. (th). Steaming and foaming. Retrieved from https://www.gaggia-usa.com/pages/steaming-and-frothing#steaming-fothing.
- Baka, K. (December 24, 2018). Steaming Milk for Latte Art - Barista Tutorial | The real Chris Baca. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YMgB61WyvE.
- Coffee Sunergos. (2018, April 12). Sunergos Milk Tutorial Video: Learn Milk Science, Steaming and Latte Art. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x5nOFirDRTo
- Klimanova Y. (2019, February 6). What temperature should milk be for cappuccino? Retrieved from https://www.perfectdailygrind.com/2019/02/what-temperature-should-your-cappuccino-milk-be/
- Ballam, R. (1999, January 31). Food for Thought: Why does hot milk foam? Retrieved from https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/food-for-thought-why-does-a-skin-form-over-hot-milk-1074030.html.
- How to prevent hot milk from sticking to the pan.