Difference between Cappuccino, Latte and Macchiato

Cappuccino vs Latte vs Macchiato

In the world of coffee today, there are a number of varieties and options available to choose from. Yet, avid coffee drinkers have a specific preference and choice amongst the many. The most popular of all are cappuccino, latte and macchiato. Even though the main amongst the three is coffee, all are diverse in flavors, method of preparation and origin. Each variety stands in its own place and offers a wide difference, especially in terms of flavor. Let us discuss and know the exact difference between the three and how they are preferred in what terms.

 

Cappuccino

Origin

The origin of cappuccino was in Italy and got popular around a decade ago. It is widely popular due to its foamy and frothy top layer.

Taste

People who enjoy a milky coffee generally opt for a cappuccino with the addition of a warm frothy crème layer on the top. It is comprised of more milk and less coffee and thus provides a subtle and decadent taste that is velvety.

 

Method of Preparation

Cappuccino comprises of milk to coffee proportion in the following manner:

  • 1/3 Espresso
  • 1/3 Steamed or Boiled milk
  • 1/3 milk foam or froth

The proportion may vary according to the requirement of more or less milk. Also you can use any espresso machine for brewing espresso.

Cappuccino Coffee

 

Serving and Popularity

Cappuccinos are served in decent drinking mugs with swirls or patterns of crème over the foam. Cappuccino art has been popular for a while now and the patterns totally welcome you to enjoy the balanced cup.

Since the origin of cappuccino has been in Italy, it has become a popular drink in the region. It is also popular in the United States, Europe and Australia.

Similar Varieties

Cappuccinos are consumed as other forms around the world such as Cappuccino Freddo or simply iced cappuccino. Instead of hot milk, it uses cold frothed milk and is consumed with ice.

 

Latte

Origin

Originated in Europe, latte has been a popular drink since more than a decade now. Some of its versions pop out from Italy as well.

Taste

The meaning of latte is milk in Italian. Thus, latte is a coffee drink which is milkier and creamier but with less foam as compared to a cappuccino. The texture of a latte is smooth and silkier in taste.

 

Method of Preparation

Unlike cappuccinos, lattes do not have a uniform ratio of components to bring out the taste and texture. A mug of latte constitutes the following proportions:

  • Double shot or amount of espresso
  • 150 ml to 250 ml of steamed milk
  • A thin layer of foam around 1 cm

The amount of espresso and the large amount of milk makes the latte creamier and silkier.

Latte Coffee

 

Serving and Popularity

Lattes, similar to cappuccinos, are served with swirls of cream forming art on top of the foam. The thickness of the foam can be added according to the desired quantity.

Café Lattes are quite popular in Europe, where they were originated. Also, it got very popular in the United States of America since more than a decade.

 

Similar Varieties

Other varieties in latte constitute an iced latte which is just a colder version. Instead of steaming milk, iced lattes are prepared with cold milk and served with ice. In some countries, lattes are served with teas and with several flavors such as vanilla, chocolate or caramel.

 

Macchiato

Origin

Macchiato was found in Italy after a few versions and variations. Macchiato means a spot in Italian.

Taste

Macchiato comprises of a more amount of coffee and a less amount of milk. Thus, it is preferred by people who like their coffee strong and with lesser milk. The bitterness and strength of a macchiato depends on the ratio of coffee to milk which is added.

 

Method of Preparation

The ratio of a macchiato is a spot or a very little amount of milk with double the amount of espresso. The ratio may vary according to the strength required. Usually, a macchiato comprises of a small spot of milk (as the name suggests). A layer of foam over a macchiato is optional.

Macchiato Coffee

 

Serving and Popularity

Macchiato is served in different forms all over the country with different versions. It is known as caffe macchiato in Ethopia, with the similar art swirls on the top of the foam.

Similar Varieties

There are a number of versions of macchiato, namely latte macchiato, caffe macchiato, iced macchiato and many more.

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