By simmering, some of the water evaporates and the milk tastes richer. For a new twist, boil a cinnamon stick or whole vanilla bean in the milk to flavor it. Make a batch of the flavored milk ahead of time and store it in your refrigerator. Reheat as needed. The foam takes well to a sprinkling of cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, vanilla powder or sweet cocoa powder.
Authentic cappuccino is made with an espresso machine that has a steamer attachment.
If you don't have one at home, you can use your blender to froth steamed milk. And by making skim your milk of choice, you save on calories and fat. Most coffee bars now offer skim, but you can usually make a special request. Here's an easy recipe to recreate the great comforting taste of a cappuccino at home. Place hot milk and sugar in blender container.