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The Harford County Café au Lait: A Classic with Local Character

Some coffee drinks are bold, some are sweet, and some are timeless. Enter the Café au Lait—a classic French drink made with equal parts freshly brewed coffee and steamed milk. At The Screaming Bean, we’ve taken this comforting staple and added our own hometown flair, proudly offering what we now call The Harford County Café au Lait. It’s smooth, simple, and just strong enough to start your day without overwhelming your taste buds.


Difference between cafe au lait and a latte.


The Café au Lait has roots in France, where it was traditionally enjoyed at breakfast, often served in a wide bowl rather than a mug. The name literally means “coffee with milk,” but the beauty lies in the balance: the deep flavor of drip-brewed coffee softened by the creaminess of warm milk. Unlike espresso-based drinks, the Café au Lait is all about full-bodied brewed coffee, making it a cozy, familiar option for those who want richness without the sharp bite of a shot.

 

It’s often confused with a latte, but they’re not the same. A latte is made with espresso and much more milk, while a Café au Lait uses brewed coffee and is typically stronger and less sweet. Our version—The Harford County Café au Lait—uses our house coffee blends, including the beloved Baltimore Blend, and pairs them with freshly steamed milk for a drink that’s grounded in tradition but made for our local community.

 

Whether you’re a longtime fan of this European favorite or just discovering it for the first time, The Harford County Café au Lait is a warm reminder that simplicity is often the secret to satisfaction. Swing by The Screaming Bean in Aberdeen or on Aberdeen Proving Ground to give it a try—sometimes the best things really are the most classic.


The Screaming Bean

3700 Churchville Road

Aberdeen, MD 21001


Located just off exit 85 on I-95 in Harford County, near Churchville and Belcamp.


www.ScreamingBeanCafe.com





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