Noisette: The Foamy French Coffee Style You Can't Miss Out On

Just in time for brunch

In contrast to a robust café shot, which is often the preferred choice for a morning pick-me-up, the café noisette offers a gentler flavor profile. This makes it an ideal companion for a leisurely brunch or a delightful brew during a relaxed afternoon in France.

While a noisette may not pack the same punch as black coffee, it also isn’t as creamy as a café crème or café au lait. The secret lies in adding just a hint of frothed milk to create that deep, nutty hue reminiscent of freshly roasted hazelnuts. This way, you can still savor the bold essence of the espresso, with its intensity softened by a subtle creaminess.

If a trip to France isn’t on your agenda anytime soon, don’t fret — you can easily replicate the experience at home. All you need is an espresso machine, a milk frother with a pump, and a demitasse (a small French espresso cup). Start by pouring a shot of fresh espresso (ideally a rich French roast) into the cup, then add a small amount of frothed milk and give it a stir. The coffee should take on a deep, dark brown color. Take a sip to gauge the flavor, and if it’s still too strong for your liking, add a little more milk. Just keep the milk to a minimum to honor the essence of the café noisette — too much milk will turn it into a café crème!