What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
Coffee has been a popular beverage worldwide for centuries, and with the increase of different coffee shops and chains, a variety of drinks are now available. As coffee is becoming an essential drink in daily life, it’s important to understand the variety of possibilities in the coffee world.
There are numerous types of coffee drinks with baffling names, but two of the most popular ones in the market are Latte and Macchiato. They are often compared, and people are confused about what differentiates both of these drinks.
A Latte is an espresso-based drink that’s made of steamed milk and topped with a shot of espresso. It is typically served in a tall glass or a mug with a combination of milk and espresso, with the foam added on top. A Latte is commonly referred to as a “Caffe Latte” or simply “Latte.”
On the other hand, a Macchiato is an espresso-based drink that is made by adding a shot of espresso to steamed milk. It is referred to as a “Caffe Macchiato” or simply “Macchiato,” which means “stained” in Italian. The drink gets its name because a shot of espresso “stains” the milk.
The difference between a Latte and a Macchiato is that a Latte is predominantly milk-based and has more milk than a Macchiato, while a Macchiato is espresso-based and consists of less milk.
Why are Lattes and Macchiatos popular drinks?
Apart from the difference in preparation, Latte and Macchiato have their respective fanbase who prefer the two drinks for different reasons. Some people prefer a Latte over a Macchiato because of its smoother texture and mild taste. Latte is a safer choice because its espresso content is not dominant, which makes it easier to consume for people who aren’t used to drinking espresso.
On the other hand, Macchiato lovers appreciate the strong espresso flavor and its distinctive taste. This drink is an ideal choice for those who want a bolder coffee flavor and those who enjoy the taste of espresso.
Notably, both drinks can be modified with additional flavors and additions. A Latte can be spiced up with toppings like cinnamon, chocolate, or caramel, while a Macchiato can be enhanced with cream or sugar.
How to make the perfect Latte or Macchiato at home
Making a Latte or Macchiato at home is easy, and you can customize it according to your taste. Here are the steps to make the perfect Latte at home:
1. Start by grinding your coffee beans. Use freshly roasted coffee beans for the best flavor.
2. Brew your espresso shots using an espresso machine. A double shot is used for a standard Latte.
3. Heat milk using a milk frother, and then add the frothed milk to the espresso.
4. Mix the espresso and milk together, and add any additional flavorings.
5. Finally, top the drink with a dollop of foam.
For a Macchiato, the process is almost the same, but use less milk, and pour a shot of espresso over the frothed milk.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer a Latte or a Macchiato, both are delicious coffee beverages that are popular for a good reason. The difference between the two drinks lies in the ingredients and preparation method. When making coffee at home, you can easily create a customized and affordable version of your favorite drink.
In the end, it’s all a matter of personal preference. Try both drinks and discover which one suits your taste buds the most.
