What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
If you’re a coffee lover, chances are you’ve encountered both lattes and macchiatos on coffee shop menus. They’re both espresso-based drinks with milk, but there are some key differences between the two that set them apart. In this article, we’ll compare lattes and macchiatos and help you decide which one is the right choice for you.
What is a latte?
A latte is a popular espresso-based drink that originated in Italy. It typically consists of one shot of espresso (although some recipes call for two), steamed milk, and a small amount of foam on top. The milk is added to the espresso in a ratio of roughly 3:1, and the foam is spooned onto the top of the drink.
Lattes are often topped with latte art, which is a design created by pouring the steamed milk in a particular way. This is often seen as a sign of a skilled barista and can make a latte even more enjoyable to drink.
What is a macchiato?
A macchiato is also an espresso-based drink, but it is prepared differently from a latte. A traditional macchiato consists of a single shot of espresso with a small amount of milk that has been frothed and spooned onto the top of the drink. The milk is added to the espresso in a ratio of roughly 4:1, which means that the drink is much stronger in flavor than a latte.
Macchiatos are often enjoyed as a quick pick-me-up because of their strong flavor and small size. They are also a favorite among espresso purists who prefer their coffee with minimal added milk or sugar.
What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
The main difference between a latte and a macchiato is the amount of milk added to each drink. Lattes are much milkier and have a sweeter taste, while macchiatos have a more intense espresso flavor with just a small amount of milk added.
Another key difference between the two drinks is their size. Most lattes are served in large cups, while a macchiato is typically served in an espresso cup. This means that a macchiato is a smaller portion size and tends to be consumed more quickly.
Finally, lattes are often topped with foam or latte art, which is not typically done with macchiatos. This is because macchiatos are meant to be consumed quickly and without any added decoration.
Which one should you choose?
The choice between a latte and a macchiato ultimately comes down to personal taste. If you prefer a sweeter, creamier coffee drink that can be sipped slowly, a latte is probably your best bet. If you prefer a stronger, more intense coffee flavor and don’t mind a smaller portion size, a macchiato might be the better choice.
It’s worth noting that the type of milk used in each drink can also make a difference. Lattes are often made with whole milk, which gives the drink a creamier texture and a slightly sweeter taste. If you opt for a macchiato, you might want to try it with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk to balance out the strong espresso flavor.
Conclusion
In the latte vs. macchiato showdown, there’s no clear winner. Both drinks have their merits and are enjoyed by coffee drinkers around the world. Whether you opt for a creamy, milkier latte or a strong, intense macchiato, the key is to experiment and find the coffee drink that you enjoy the most.
