Last Updated on June 2, 2025 by Karen
Learn how to use the Nespresso Aeroccino handheld milk frother to make perfect hot or cold foam. Best tips for lattes, plant-based milk, and cleaning.
If you’ve seen videos on TikTok – Make that show people making perfect coffee drinks at home, you’ve probably noticed one tool that keeps popping up: the Nespresso Aeroccino. This popular handheld milk frother is one of the best milk frothers available for making smooth, creamy foam at home—without needing a café-style espresso machine or a barista.
Whether you’re using plant-based milk, whole milk, or alternative milk options, the Aeroccino can help you create a variety of delicious drinks. This guide will explain how to use this countertop electric milk frother step-by-step and help you understand its foam settings, temperature setting, and how to achieve the optimal foam texture for your favorite drinks.
What Is the Nespresso Aeroccino?
The Nespresso Aeroccino is a small, stylish frother made to go with Nespresso machines, but it works great with any coffee setup. It has a compact design, making it easy to store on your kitchen counter, even if space is tight. Unlike some manual frothers or steam wands that take more practice, this device is beginner-friendly and works with just the touch of a power button.
It’s one of the most convenient countertop frothers because it works quickly and doesn’t require any extra equipment. Plus, its detachable pitchers make cleaning simple.
How to Use the Nespresso Aeroccino to Froth Milk
Step 1: Choose the Right Milk
The kind of milk you use affects how the foam turns out. Foam is made when proteins and fats in milk trap air, so different milks make different types of foam.
• Whole milk creates a rich, creamy foam. It’s great for lattes and cappuccinos.
• Plant-based milk like oat milk, almond milk, and soy milk can also foam well, especially if labeled as “barista blend” or made for frothing.
• Alternative milk such as coconut milk or cashew milk may not foam as easily, but some brands offer versions designed to work in countertop models like the Aeroccino.
• For optimal performance, always use fresh, cold milk straight from the fridge. Cold milk makes better foam and helps maintain the proper temperature setting.
Step 2: Fill the Frother
• Remove the lid and locate the two fill lines inside: The lower line is for creating perfect foam with lots of volume. The upper line is for just heating milk without much foam.
• Never go above the maximum fill line. Overfilling can lead to messy spills.
• Choose the correct whisk: Use the whisk with a spring coil for thick, creamy foam. Use the flat whisk for lightly frothed milk.
Step 3: Select Your Foam Setting
The Aeroccino uses one single power button to control both heat and foam.
• For hot froth, press the button once quickly. The red light will come on, and the milk will heat to about 55°C (131°F).
• For cold froth, press and hold the button for 2 seconds. The light turns blue, meaning the milk will stay cool but still froth. This is great for iced coffee drinks or cold brews.
Understanding your foam settings is important because different drinks need different textures. Cappuccinos need more foam, while lattes use less.
Step 4: Pour and Enjoy
Once the frothing is done, the Aeroccino stops automatically. Remove the lid and gently pour the milk into your drink.
• For lattes: pour slowly to mix milk with espresso, leaving a little foam on top (or even latte art if you pour correctly!)
• For cappuccinos: spoon the foam on top for a rich, airy layer.
• For iced drinks: use the cold froth setting to add foam without melting your ice.
You can also try using a French press to make foam if you don’t have a frother, but the Aeroccino gives faster and more consistent results.
Tips for the Best Results When Using the Nespresso Aeroccino
• Use milk with higher fat content for a thicker and more stable foam.
• Use barista-style plant-based milk for better foam if you don’t drink dairy.
• Rinse the frother after each use and clean it fully with mild soap and water. Keeping it clean ensures optimal foam texture every time.
• Avoid using flavored or sweetened milk unless you clean it immediately after. These can stick to the surface and lower performance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using the Nespresso Aeroccino
• Overfilling the frother past the max line, which can cause it to overflow.
• Using milk that’s too warm or old, which won’t foam well.
• Forgetting to clean the frother after use, leading to build-up that affects performance.
• Choosing milks not designed for frothing, which can result in flat or no foam.
Can I Use Non-Dairy Milk Or Plant-Based Milk In The Aeroccino?
Can I Make Hot Chocolate In The Aeroccino?
How to Make Hot Chocolate in the Aeroccino
Use Liquid or Powdered Chocolate Wisely
You can add a small amount of chocolate syrup, cocoa powder, or hot chocolate mix to the milk before starting the frothing cycle. However, avoid adding large amounts of powder or thick syrups, as they can stick to the frother’s non-stick coating or interfere with the whisk.
Mix Before Frothing
For best results, stir the chocolate into the milk before turning on the Aeroccino. This helps the mixture heat evenly and prevents clumping.
Use the Right Fill Level
When making hot chocolate, don’t go past the lower fill line (the one for frothing). This leaves room for the foam and prevents overflow.
Choose the Right Whisk
Use the whisk without the spring coil if you want a smoother, creamier texture without too much foam—ideal for traditional hot chocolate.
Clean Immediately After Use
Chocolate can stick to the inside of the frother, especially if left to dry. Be sure to rinse and wipe the inside with warm water and a soft cloth right after use.
How Do I Clean The Aeroccino?
Cleaning the Nespresso Aeroccino properly after each use is essential for keeping it in good condition and ensuring it continues to produce high-quality foam. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you clean it safely and effectively:
1. Unplug and Cool Down
Before cleaning, always make sure the Aeroccino is unplugged and has cooled down. Never try to clean it while it’s still hot or plugged into the power base.
2. Remove the Whisk and Lid
Take off the lid and gently remove the whisk. Both the lid and whisk are usually dishwasher safe (top rack only), but you can also wash them by hand with warm, soapy water.
3. Rinse the Inside
Rinse the inside of the pitcher immediately after use with warm water. This prevents milk from drying and sticking to the non-stick coating.
4. Wipe with a Soft Cloth or Sponge
Use a non-abrasive sponge or soft cloth with a small amount of mild dish soap to gently clean the interior. Avoid using anything rough like steel wool, as it can scratch the non-stick surface.
5. Never Submerge the Base
Do not put the Aeroccino base (the part with the electrical connection) in water or the dishwasher. Simply wipe the outside with a damp cloth.
6. Dry All Parts Thoroughly
After washing, dry all parts completely with a clean towel or let them air dry before reassembling.
Extra Tips:
• Clean immediately after frothing, especially when using sweetened or plant-based milk, as residue can harden and be difficult to remove later.
• Store the whisk on the built-in magnetic holder in the lid or inside the frother when not in use to avoid losing it.
Is The Aeroccino Better Than A Manual Frother Or French Press?
It depends on what you want. The Aeroccino is faster, easier, and more consistent than a manual frother or French press, especially for beginners.
The Nespresso Aeroccino is one of the best milk frothers you can get if you’re looking for a simple, fast, and reliable way to make foamy coffee drinks at home. With its compact design, easy-to-use power button, and multiple foam settings, it’s perfect for beginners and coffee lovers alike. Whether you’re using dairy or plant-based milk, the Aeroccino helps you create the perfect foam for lattes, cappuccinos, and more.
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll get optimal performance every time. No need for fancy steam wands or expensive machines—just plug it in, press a button, and enjoy coffee that looks and tastes like it came from your favorite café.
