The Difference Between a Cappuccino, Latte, and Macchiato
Are you perplexed about all the different types of milk-based espresso drinks that are out there? Don't worry. We've got your back. Read on to better understand Cappuccinos, Macchiatos, and Lattes. An educational journey awaits you to learn all the intricacies and differences between these specialty coffee drinks. Let's dive in.
What is a Macchiato?
Macchiato, a popular espresso-based beverage from Italy, is marked with a spoonful of foamed milk. There are many variations and adaptations of this drink today, ranging from the caramelly Starbucks macchiato to tall macs that bear more resemblance to lattes than traditional macchiatos. To ensure you get the right flavor when ordering outside Italy, it's best to ask for an "espresso macchiato."
Macchiato Variations
The traditional macchiato is a simple espresso drink with steamed milk added, but nowadays, there are many variations - like the 'zebra' or iced 'marble mocha.' Those seeking something sweeter than an authentic macchiato may opt for drinks such as latte macchiatos and cortados from Latin America. These drinks typically consist of espresso combined with steamed milk, but in different ratios and often with the addition of flavoring syrups.
What is a Cappuccino?
Cappuccino is one of the most beloved coffee drinks worldwide, and its name originates from an order of Capuchin monks. It consists of espresso topped with steamed milk, foam, and a sprinkle of chocolate or spices for extra flavor - often enjoyed in Italy as part of their morning ritual. This unique combination of coffee, milk, and foam has made Cappuccino a beloved staple in cafes worldwide.
Cappuccino History
Even though the name "cappuccino" originated in Vienna, Italy has every right to boast about being the innovator of modern cappuccinos. It was in 19th-century Italy that coffee brewing machines were invented, and cappuccinos made their way onto menus as early as the 1930s. As such, Italians are credited with creating this beloved beverage that is now a staple in the cafe around the globe.
The classic Viennese milky coffee was often enhanced with hints of cinnamon and chocolate, then topped off with a dollop of whipped cream. This sugary rendition became popular in interwar Italy as well – likely due to the need for added flavorings to mask the poor quality of espresso at that time.
After WWII, technology vastly improved, making brewing an exquisite espresso easier. Thus, adding extra sweeteners to cappuccinos became less of a requirement.
In the 1950s, cappuccino popularity spread throughout Britain, and in the 1980s, it was embraced by America. Nowadays, you can find a delicious cup of Cappuccino almost anywhere in the world.
The Certified Cappuccino Recipe
INEI has a specific definition for Certified Italian Cappuccino that differs from the popular 1:1:1 ratio of milk, coffee and foam. According to INEI, it should consist of...
- To craft the perfect Latte, start with 25 milliliters of espresso.
- Next, add 100 mL of cold milk between 3-5 degrees Celsius and steam it to 125 mL.
- Serve in a snowy white porcelain cup capacity of 150-160mL
- Crown the top with a delectable dome-shaped cap of frothed milk (6).
To perfect the art of espresso-based drinks, we put our La Pavoni machine to work crafting cappuccinos according to strict Italian standards. The results were delightful - just as good as you'd find in Italy.
Making an excellent cappuccino is all about dialing up the quality and proportions when making your espresso; for this recipe, that means 75% milk and 25% coffee. In short: sometimes standardization can be delicious too.
Cappuccino Variations
Beyond Italy, it's typical to have a 1:1:1 ratio of coffee, milk, and foam for a Cappuccino. Baristas then alter the proportions of these components to create either a "dry" or a "wet" cappuccino – the former having more frothed milk, whereas the latter has greater amounts of hot milk. To top off this delightful concoction, cocoa powder is often strewn over its surface in many places worldwide.
The flat white is a coffee beverage made with milk. However, it doesn't contain the normal layer of foam that other drinks may have. Additionally, there usually isn't as much milk in this drink compared to others like cappuccinos.
What is a Latte?
Cafe latte translates to "coffee milk" and is an incredibly popular drink worldwide, with various recipes being concocted every minute. It's impossible to define one exact way of making a delicious latte, but thankfully we have advanced machines that can do it for us.
Away from the coffeehouses of Italy, a latte generally means an espresso topped with steamed milk. It does not need to be made with coffee either; as long as it contains dairy, any drink can qualify for being a latte - such favorite cafe beverages like Chai Latte and Matcha Latte are great examples. In contrast, if you order one in Italy, be prepared to receive just a glass full of delicious fresh cow's milk.
In Italy, it's usual to begin one's day with a latte. All you need is the iconic Bialetti Moka pot and some milk heated on the stovetop - no elaborate foaming process necessary. This luxurious beverage has become popular in Italian culture primarily due to its simple yet rewarding preparation.
Latte History
While hardly any one person can be credited with inventing Latte, there is no denying that milk coffee has been a staple in Europe for centuries. From country to country, coffee lovers have crafted their unique takes on the classic drink. In Germany, Milchkaffee is served with a combination of heated milk and strong brewed coffee for an unforgettable flavor experience. Meanwhile, in France, café au lait combines hot steamed milk and espresso for a richly-flavored beverage.
The word Latte has taken prominence in English-speaking countries despite not being a part of Italian café culture. An ordinary recipe for making the drink includes espresso, steamed milk and sweeteners.
If you're at an Italian coffee bar, it's not unusual to find a macchiato or Cappuccino being served. However, the locals regard the caffè latte as more of a morning beverage meant for homemade consumption rather than one you'd order from your local cafe.
Latte Recipes Around The World
Although there are two primary methods for preparing a latte - the Italian and American ways - many other variations exist of this beloved beverage.
The Latte in Italy: You can prepare an intense cup of coffee with either a Moka pot or espresso machine and then add heated milk plus your desired amount of sugar. It's uncomplicated and delightful, and you don't need anything complicated to start.
The Latte in America:
- Start off by brewing a rich shot of espresso and then steam the milk to create an ultra-creamy microfoam, approximately 1 part coffee to 6 parts steamed milk.
- For added flavor, feel free to add your favorite syrup or sugar.
- Top it off with some artistic latte art for the perfect finish.
The Latte in France: The café au lait or commonly known as cafe crème, is the ideal beverage for dipping your croissant or breakfast baguette due to its creamy consistency. It's usually served from a bowl and contains an equal mixture of dark filter coffee and steaming milk. This deliciousness is traditionally prepared tableside by mixing both ingredients together in two pitchers simultaneously.
The Latte in South Africa: Rather than using coffee, a red latte is created with rooibos tea as its base.
THE Bottom Line
It can be tricky to distinguish between a macchiato, Cappuccino, and Latte. However, the key difference lies in their respective coffee and milk ratios.
Macchiato – Combination of espresso and steamed milk - 90% coffee to 10% milk.
Cappuccino – A shot of espresso with a perfect blend of milk and foam. The ratio is 1:2:2 according to the INEI, yet usually, it's just 1:1:1 in other parts of the world.
Latte – In Italy, coffee with a hint of warm milk. Outside Italy, you'll find espresso with heaps of steamed milk. As far as proportions go, usually, it's split between 15% coffee and 85% milk.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Cappuccino, Latte, and Macchiato
What is a Mocha?
Which one is stronger- Latte vs Cappuccino ?
Which one has more Caffeine-Macchiato Or A Latte?
What is The Difference Between Latte vs Cappuccino?
Are You Able To Steam Milk For Lattes And Cappuccinos Without An Espresso Machine?
Can You Make Lattes Without An Espresso Machine?
What Is The Difference Between A Macchiato And A Latte?
What Is The Difference Between A Macchiato And A Cappuccino?
Which Is Healthier: Latte vs Cappuccino?
How Much Milk Should I Put In My Cappuccino Or Latte?
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