Espresso 101: Latte vs Macchiato
If you’re a coffee lover, you’ve probably heard of lattes and macchiatos. But what’s the difference between them? In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between lattes and macchiatos so that you can make an informed decision next time you’re in a café.
What’s a latte?
A latte is a popular coffee drink that’s made with espresso, steamed milk, and a small amount of milk foam. It’s a creamy, smooth drink that’s not too strong and not too sweet. Lattes are usually served in a tall glass or mug, and they can be topped with additional foam, cocoa powder, or cinnamon.
The milk in a latte is usually frothed to perfection, which gives the drink its signature smoothness. This process involves steaming the milk, which creates microfoam that’s added to the espresso. The result is a creamy and velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
What’s a macchiato?
A macchiato is a more concentrated drink that’s made with espresso and a small amount of steamed milk. It’s a strong and bold drink that’s perfect for those who love the taste of espresso. Unlike a latte, a macchiato is served in a smaller cup, usually an espresso cup.
The milk in a macchiato is added to the espresso after the shot is pulled. This process creates a layer of milk that’s lighter in color than the espresso. The name “macchiato” actually means “stained” in Italian, which refers to the way the milk “stains” the espresso. This drink is perfect for those who want a strong coffee flavor without the bitterness of pure espresso.
What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
Now that we know what lattes and macchiatos are, let’s explore the differences between them. The main difference between the two is the amount of milk that’s used.
Lattes are made with a lot of milk, which makes them creamy and smooth. They’re usually served in a tall glass or mug and topped with foam or cocoa powder. Lattes are perfect for those who want a coffee drink that’s not too strong or not too sweet.
Macchiatos, on the other hand, are made with a small amount of milk. This gives them a strong and bold coffee flavor that’s perfect for those who love the taste of espresso. Macchiatos are usually served in a smaller cup, like an espresso cup, and they’re not topped with any milk foam or flavorings.
Another difference between lattes and macchiatos is the order in which the milk and espresso are added. In a latte, the milk is steamed and added to the espresso, while in a macchiato, the milk is added after the espresso shot is pulled. This creates a different flavor profile and texture for each drink.
Which one should you choose?
Choosing between a latte and a macchiato comes down to personal preference. If you love the taste of espresso and want a strong and bold coffee, go for a macchiato. If you prefer a creamy and smooth coffee with a little bit of sweetness, go for a latte.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lattes and macchiatos are two popular coffee drinks that are enjoyed by coffee lovers around the world. While they share some similarities, the main difference between the two is the amount of milk that’s used. Lattes are creamy and smooth, while macchiatos are bold and strong. Now that you know the difference between a latte and a macchiato, you can make an informed decision the next time you’re in a café.
