Cappuccino vs. Latte Macchiato

There are so many different espresso-based beverages out there that it's not always easy to remember how to make each one. Especially when they sound and also look similar.

Difference between cappuccino vs. latte macchiato

The key difference between a latte macchiato and a cappuccino lies in their proportions of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.

Cappuccino

A cappuccino comes with an even distribution of these three ingredients. Traditionally, a cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. This creates a drink with distinct layers, with the espresso shot sitting below a layer of steamed milk, topped by a thick layer of milk foam.

Latte Macchiato

On the other hand, a latte macchiato is even distribution of espresso and steamed milk. The bottom layer is the steamed milk with the espresso poured over it. This coffee is milder than the cappuccino.

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When preparing any of these two drinks, the key is to remember the layers.

Think of a cappuccino as a three-part layered dessert, with a cookie crust (espresso), a creamy filling (steamed milk), and a generous dollop of whipped cream (milk foam) on top.

A latte macchiato is more like a coffee float, with a shot of espresso in the middle, topped with steamed milk and sometimes a little bit of whipped cream.