What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
If you are a coffee lover, you have probably seen these two words a lot – latte and macchiato. They are two of the most popular coffee drinks you can find in any coffee shop, but what exactly is the difference between them? In this article, we will compare latte vs. macchiato to help you choose which one to order the next time you visit your local coffee shop.
What is a latte?
A latte is a coffee drink made by combining espresso shots with steamed milk and a small layer of foam. The ratio of espresso and milk is usually 1:3 or 1:4, depending on the preference of the customer. The steamed milk is poured over the espresso, and then the foam is added on top.
The word “latte” actually means “milk” in Italian, which is why this drink is often referred to as a “café latte.” Lattes are known for their smooth and creamy texture, and they are usually served in a tall glass.
What is a macchiato?
A macchiato is a coffee drink that is made by adding a shot of espresso to a small amount of steamed milk. The word “macchiato” in Italian means “stained” or “marked,” which refers to the mark of the espresso shot on top of the steamed milk.
There are two types of macchiatos – the traditional macchiato and the latte macchiato. The traditional macchiato is also known as an “espresso macchiato” or a “short macchiato.” It is usually served in a small cup and only contains a shot of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk and foam on top.
The latte macchiato, on the other hand, is the opposite of the traditional macchiato. It is made by adding a small amount of espresso to steamed milk and a layer of foam on top. The ratio of milk to espresso is usually 3:1, which makes this drink less strong than the traditional macchiato.
What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
Now that we have explained what a latte and a macchiato are, let’s compare the two drinks and highlight their differences:
– The main difference between a latte and a macchiato is the amount of milk used. Lattes are predominantly made with milk, while macchiatos are mainly espresso-based.
– Lattes are sweeter and creamier compared to macchiatos. The steamed milk used in lattes gives it a creamy texture and a sweet taste.
– Macchiatos are stronger in taste and more bitter than lattes because of the concentrated espresso shot used in the drink.
– Macchiatos are usually served in smaller cups than lattes. A traditional macchiato is served in a small cup, while a latte is served in a tall glass.
– The ratio of milk to espresso is different in lattes and macchiatos. Lattes have a higher ratio of milk to espresso (1:3 or 1:4), while macchiatos have a lower ratio of milk to espresso (1:1 or 1:2).
Conclusion
In conclusion, latte and macchiato are two different coffee drinks that have distinct taste, texture, and ratios of milk to espresso. When it comes to deciding which one to order, it all depends on your preferences. If you prefer sweeter and creamier drinks, go for a latte. If you like strong and bitter drinks, try a macchiato. Whatever your preference is, both drinks are delicious and popular among coffee lovers all over the world.
