Cappuccino vs latte vs latte macchiato: What’s the difference?

What is the difference between a latte and a cappuccino? This is a common question among even the most loyal of coffee lovers. Those who drink coffee every morning have their designated coffee beverage of choice. But occasionally, you may feel an urge to experiment with a different type of coffee. And with so many varieties out there, it can be intimidating to know the difference between a latte and a cappuccino or how a latte differs from a latte macchiato. 

If you want to know what’s the difference between latte and cappuccino drinks, you’ve come to the right place. This article will dive into the makings of cappuccino vs latte beverages so that you’ll know exactly what to order next time you’re at the coffee or kitchen counter!

What’s the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?

A latte is very similar to a cappuccino. Both contain espresso, steamed milk, and foam. So what is the difference between a latte and a cappuccino? The main latte and cappuccino difference lies entirely in the milk content.

Remember: when it comes to the difference between a latte and a cappuccino, it’s all about how you steam the milk. For a cappuccino, steam the milk with the wand closer to the milk’s surface to create more foam. And when making a latte, insert the steamer wand lower into the pitcher of milk to give it a lighter, less foamy consistency.  

What is a macchiato vs latte?

You now know what’s the difference between latte and cappuccino coffees. But what is a macchiato vs a latte? Again, the primary difference is the same as a cappuccino vs latte: the milk content. Both the cafe macchiato and the latte are made up of espresso and steamed milk. But the two drinks differ in the milk to espresso ratio. 

Macchiato literally translates to “stained” in Italian, so in this case, the steamed milk is “staining” the espresso shot. To make a macchiato, pull a shot of espresso and add just a dash of steamed milk. Try to aim for ratio of about 90% coffee and 10% milk. In short, if you’re ever questioning what is a macchiato vs a latte, remember that a macchiato is an espresso with just a little steamed milk, while a latte prides itself in plenty of foam.

Cappuccino vs latte vs macchiato: Try them all!

Now that you know the main latte and cappuccino difference, you’ll never have to ask yourself ‘what’s the difference between a latte and a cappuccino’ again. By understanding the difference between latte and cappuccino espresso drinks, you can make them right from the comfort of your home.