While the expensive machines baristas use at cafes are designed to make perfect lattes, they're actually not necessary. In fact, you can make one yourself using your microwave.

To be clear, you're not using the microwave to brew your espresso. That's best done using an Aeropress, moka pot, or French press, as these will produce brews closest to espresso.

The microwave is, in fact, an alternative for a milk frother that you can use to make milk foam. To start, fill a glass jar halfway with milk and shake it until foam forms.

Then, nuke it for about 30 seconds to warm the milk and prevent the foam from collapsing in on itself. You can then add as much milk and foam as you want to your espresso.