Cappuccino, Latte, and Macchiato: How Are They Different?
In the world of coffee, there are so many options to choose from. Sometimes, the names can be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to popular coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Each of these drinks has unique characteristics that make them stand out. Let's dive into the world of these delicious coffee beverages and uncover their differences.
What Is a Cappuccino?
Cappuccino, a popular Italian coffee beverage, is known for its rich taste. This delightful concoction is made by combining equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The espresso provides a strong and bold flavor, while the steamed milk adds a smooth and velvety texture. Topped with a layer of frothy milk foam, the cappuccino is not only visually appealing but also offers a pleasing balance of flavors.
How to Make a Cappuccino
When making a cappuccino, the order of ingredients is important. Start by pulling a shot of espresso into your cup. Then, steam the milk to the desired temperature and texture. The milk should be creamy and velvety, with small bubbles. Finally, pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon. Spoon the foam on top of the milk, creating a beautiful layer.
- Cappuccino Ratio: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam (usually 2 oz. each)
- How Many Shots of Espresso in a Cappuccino? One shot of espresso
- What Does a Cappuccino Taste Like? Rich coffee flavor balanced with a layer of thick foam and a silky texture
- Best Serving Temperature for Cappuccinos: Hot
Cappuccino vs Latte
While both of these popular espresso-based drinks are made with the same basic ingredients (espresso, milk, and foam), an experienced barista knows the difference lies in the ratio of ingredients and the preparation technique. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, all distinctly layered for a more structured drink. As you tilt the cappuccino to take a sip, the espresso on the bottom layer travels through the milk layer, creating a silky mouthfeel. On the other hand, a latte is mixed instead of layered. The espresso and milk are combined to make a creamy texture. We'll look more into lattes below.
What Is a Latte?
A latte, short for caffe latte, is a popular espresso-based beverage made by combining espresso with steamed milk, resulting in a creamy, smooth drink. The word "latte" actually means milk in Italian, highlighting the importance of milk in this beverage. A typical latte is made with one shot of espresso and about 6-8 ounces of steamed milk, but it's common for larger quantities of milk to be used in signature drinks. Lattes are often enjoyed with added flavors such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a touch of sweetness in their coffee. You will even see variations of the latte used with types of tea, like the matcha tea latte or chai tea latte.
How to Make a Latte
To make a latte, start by brewing a strong shot of espresso using freshly ground coffee beans. Then, steam your milk to create a velvety texture, making sure not to overheat it. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, holding back the foam with a spoon. Finally, add a small dollop of foam on top and sprinkle with some cocoa or cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
- Latte Ratio: 1 part espresso to 3 parts milk (1 cm layer of foam)
- How Many Shots of Espresso in a Latte? One shot of espresso
- What Does a Latte Taste Like? Smooth and milky with mild coffee flavor, often sweetened with syrups
- Best Serving Temperature for Lattes: Hot or iced
Latte vs Macchiato
A latte is a creamy beverage made with a shot of espresso and steamed milk, topped with a layer of frothed milk. It has a smooth and velvety texture, perfect for those who enjoy a milder coffee flavor. A macchiato is a bolder and more intense option. It is made by adding a small amount of steamed milk to a shot of espresso. Learn more about macchiatos below.
What Is a Macchiato?
A traditional macchiato is a classic Italian coffee beverage that has gained popularity worldwide. This espresso-based drink is known for its simplicity and bold flavors. It consists of a shot of espresso topped with a small amount of foamed milk. The word "macchiato" means "stained" or "marked" in Italian, referring to the way the milk marks the espresso. This drink offers a strong and intense coffee flavor with just a hint of creamy sweetness.
How to Make a Macchiato
To make a traditional macchiato, use your espresso machine to pull one shot of espresso (or two shots if requested) into an espresso glass. Froth a small amount of hot foam (about 1 teaspoon) and spoon it on top of the espresso. It's a simple drink but it's perfect for the customer who wants just a touch of creaminess in their espresso.
- Macchiato Ratio: 1 oz. espresso with 1-2 teaspoons foam
- How Many Shots of Espresso in a Macchiato? One shot of espresso
- What Does a Macchiato Taste Like? Robust coffee flavor with a small hint of creamy foam
- Best Serving Temperature for Macchiato: Hot (some variations can be served cold)
Starbucks Macchiato vs Real Macchiato
While both beverages share the name "macchiato," they are quite different in terms of preparation and taste. A Starbucks macchiato is a sweetened espresso-based drink, where the espresso is poured over steamed milk and flavored syrup. It's a creamy and indulgent treat that appeals to those with a sweet tooth. On the other hand, a traditional macchiato is a simple yet bold drink, consisting of a shot of espresso "stained" with a small amount of milk. It has a strong coffee flavor and is often enjoyed by those who prefer a more robust taste.
Espresso Drinks FAQ
We answer common questions about these espresso-based coffee drinks below:
Which Has More Milk, Cappuccino or Latte?
A latte has more milk than a cappuccino. The traditional cappuccino calls for 2 oz. of milk, while a latte calls for at least 6 oz. of milk.
What's the Best Milk for Frothing?
Full-fat dairy milk is the best option for the hot foam used to make a latte, cappuccino, or macchiato. Unlike cold foam, which works best with nonfat milk, hot foam has a better texture and flavor when made with high-fat milk. For a non-dairy milk choice, you can froth oat milk, coconut milk, almond milk, and soy milk to make hot foam.
Is a Cappuccino Stronger than a Latte?
Technically, a cappuccino and a latte both call for one shot of espresso, so they have the same amount of caffeine. But, a cappuccino has a stronger coffee flavor because it contains less milk.
Does a Macchiato Have Coffee?
Yes, a traditional macchiato is made with 1 shot of espresso. It's a great coffee drink option for those that love a rich, espresso flavor.
Lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos are three espresso-based drinks that have become very popular with coffee enthusiasts. There is an art to making each drink with the appropriate ingredient ratio so that it meets your customers' expectations for flavor and texture.
By Michale LeRoy
