Cappuccino Vs. Americano: What’s the Difference?

So you are here yet again to see what new comparisons I have got? Well, this one is all about Cappuccino Vs. Americano. Comparing the evolved versions of Italian coffee is quite a task. But I have got you covered with my findings on this topic.

I must say, I was left baffled to know that reversing a recipe can formulate a new coffee. Hold on! Let me explain it later below.

What makes Cappuccino different from Americano?

Well, both the drinks have distinct tastes and textures. However, espresso is the point of similarity and a requisite in both beverages. Let’s find out what makes the two drinks different.

What is a traditional Cappuccino?

Cappuccino is the most iconic yet, a beginner drink for those who love a creamy texture. It’s an Italian coffee, chiefly topped with foam, giving a thick texture. It is made from shots of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.

The Italian cappuccino is traditionally a 6 ounce (0.23 kg) cup containing everything in the ratio 1:1:1. Pour yourself 2 ounces (0.08 kg) of espresso shots into a cup. Then add 2 ounces of milk and microform each in a cup. And your drink is ready.

The modern-day cappuccino consists of non-dairy substitutes and latte art, which makes it look delectable. You can also top off your drink with cinnamon, cocoa powder, etc.

Latte art is made using steamed milk at the top of a coffee.

Other drinks in the Cappuccino family

They aren’t the spitting image of a cappuccino because of the distinct espresso notes found in them. They are mainly categorized as wet and dry cappuccino. These drinks have different names but the same ingredients, except Breve. 

Latte Vs. Cappuccino Vs. Macchiato

Latte is a wet cappuccino. It has more steamed milk than foam. You can prepare it from one-third espresso, two-thirds steamed milk, and foam. It comes in different flavors such as vanilla, hazelnut, etc. Traditional cappuccino doesn’t come in flavors and has more foam than a latte.

Macchiato is a dry cappuccino. The term usually means coffee stained with milk. Macchiato tastes stronger than cappuccino due to less milk and no foam.

Breve is an American variation of latte. The drink consists of whipped cream instead of milk foam. It can be served as both hot and iced drinks. It is rich in fats and sweet as well.

What is a traditional Americano?

Another drink with the same place of origin, but a different taste. You can prepare it with one-third espresso and two-thirds water. A traditional Americano is quite bitter, as it has no place for any dairy product. The darker the color of roasted beans, the bitter your drink will be.

Other drinks in the Americano family

The modern-day Americano has milk and sugar in it. It reduces its earthy flavor and dissolves crema. The drink is served under the name White Cappuccino.

Americano also comes with a “Crema” on top, which is a foamy substance that is very bitter

Americano Vs. Long Black Vs. Lungo Vs. Little Buddy

Long Black is prepared using the same recipe in reversal. Adding espresso to hot water keeps the cream intact. This results in a more bitter drink than Americano. So if you are a serious coffee lover, this one is for you. 

Little buddy or Italiano is prepared the same way as Long Black. But, with an equal proportion of hot water and espresso. Traditionally, it is made with 2 ounces of hot water and espresso each. 

However, a lungo has the pretty same recipe. But, the espresso is made with more water. This gives it a strong espresso savor than Americano.

Cappuccino Vs. Americano

The taste and texture

Cappuccino tastes more like a sweet, milky, and soft drink. You can spice Cappuccino with a dash of cocoa powder for chocolaty flavor. Any kind of syrup and toppings will make your drink saporous. A traditional cappuccino has no such variations in flavor. It has a smooth and foamy texture made using whipped cream.

Whereas, Americano tastes sharp and strongly bitter. The bold drink is known for its earthy and rich flavor. It is not a sweet drink traditionally. You can add honey, milk, and sweeteners to balance the bitter taste. Traditional Americano is thin in texture than a cappuccino.

If a thicker, creamier texture that includes a base of the espresso is what you seek, then you should just order a cappuccino or latte.

The color

A creamy cappuccino has the medium-toned color of sun rays. Different flavored cappuccino has color according to the added syrup.

Americano looks more like a dark brown drink. The intensity of brown color depends on the color of the roasted beans.

Cappuccino Vs. Americano; which one is healthier?

A standard cup of Americano has more caffeine than a cappuccino. It is because espresso used in it is rich in coffee content, thus making a drink more caffeinated and bitter.

To know more about caffeine content, give this article a good read.

Cappuccino possesses higher calories and fats due to dairy products and sweeteners. Cappuccino contains 130 calories in a 16oz cup. Whereas, Americano contains only 10 calories.

I would say none of them is healthier. One contains more caffeine and the other has high calories. However, cappuccino is considered better because of its soft and creamy taste.

Final Thoughts

The two drinks are entirely different and are perfect in their way. Again, none of them are healthier, but of course, cappuccino is mostly recommended for beginners. However, the variations have made them more flavorsome.