You’ve just been handed a beautiful latte or cappuccino. The barista has poured a perfect heart or rosetta on top, and you almost feel guilty ruining it. We get it — no one wants to destroy latte art or hurt their barista’s feelings.

But here’s the truth: if you don’t stir that golden crema into your drink, you’re not actually tasting it the way it was intended.

What Is Crema, Really?

That caramel-colored layer on top of your espresso is called crema. It’s a mix of coffee oils and tiny bubbles of CO₂ created during extraction. Crema looks gorgeous, it’s part of the visual appeal of espresso, but it can be misleading.

On its own, crema tastes bitter and overly intense, not balanced like the espresso underneath.

👉 Without stirring, your first sip is mostly crema (bitter), the middle tastes smooth and milky, and the last sip feels flat. Stirring fixes this.

Stirring Unlocks Balance and Consistency

When you stir the crema into the milk, you’re blending everything the way your barista intended, the rich body of the espresso, the natural sweetness of the milk, and the texture of the foam.

The result? Every sip tastes consistent: smooth, sweet, and balanced.
Pro Tip: Stir gently right after your drink is served. You’ll notice the difference immediately.

Texture Matters Too

Coffee isn’t just about flavor — it’s about mouthfeel. Crema by itself can coat your palate with a dry, ashy sensation. When you stir, those oils emulsify into the milk, creating a velvety texture that makes a cappuccino or latte truly shine.

About That Latte Art…

Yes, stirring will erase the heart or rosetta on top. But that art isn’t just decoration, it’s a sign of well-textured milk and properly pulled espresso. The barista already did their job. Your job is to enjoy it.

Think of latte art as the opening act — stirring is how you get to the main show.

Try It at Frontside

Next time you order a latte or cappuccino, give the crema a gentle stir before you sip. You’ll taste the smoother texture, better balance, and sweeter finish immediately.

At Frontside Coffee Roasters in North Conway, New Hampshire, we love helping people discover little tweaks that make specialty coffee taste even better. Visit our café to try it for yourself, or shop our single origin coffees and signature blends online to recreate café-quality drinks at home.