National Cafe au Lait Day – February 17, 2025

History of National Cafe au Lait Day

Coffee, a drink made from the seeds of the coffee plant (coffee beans) is said to have been discovered in Ethiopia, Kaffa province, a century ago when it was consumed as food before spreading to other parts of the world. However, it was when coffee arrived in Yemen that it became popular as a drink. From then the love for coffee began spreading throughout the Middle East to Europe by the 17th century and then to the rest of the world. Its preparation involves drying, roasting, and crushing the coffee beans.

The deliciousness of milk, according to popular belief, was first discovered way back in 8000 B.C. in Europe when milk from cows was used to make dairy products. European farmers are credited with milk’s origin. Recent findings from scientists however show dairy drinking began at least 6,000 years ago in Kenya and Sudan.

‘Cafe au Lait’ (meaning ‘coffee with hot milk’) originated in France back in the 1600s when the French introduced the mixing of milk with coffee. Although regularly confused with the Italian ‘caffè latte’, the difference is that while the latter is made with espresso, steamed milk, and some foam and can be served either hot or cold, ‘Cafe au Lait’ is made from freshly brewed coffee and steamed milk and must be served hot. Although the origin of Cafe au Lait Day is unknown, one cannot deny this beverage has delighted tons of taste buds! ‘Cafe au Lait’ is made with equal portions of coffee and milk and is usually light brown.