What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
Coffee is not just a drink, it’s a culture! For those who love coffee, getting the order wrong could mean the difference between a good day and a bad day. That’s why it’s important to understand the difference between a latte and a macchiato.
Latte and macchiato are two classic espresso-based drinks that are often confused. The general consensus is that the main difference between the two is the amount of milk in each drink, but there’s much more to it than that. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between a latte and a macchiato and why it matters.
Latte
A latte is a very popular coffee drink that originated in Italy. It is made with a shot of espresso and steamed milk with a layer of foam on top. A classic latte typically has a ratio of 1:3, meaning it has one shot of espresso and three parts steamed milk.
What sets a latte apart from other espresso-based drinks is the texture of the milk. The milk used for a latte is steamed to create microfoam, which is then poured over the espresso. The microfoam gives the latte a smooth, creamy texture. The amount of foam on top can vary from a light layer to a thick layer depending on your preference.
A latte is generally considered a milder coffee drink because of the amount of milk used. It is a great choice for those who enjoy the flavor of espresso but find it too strong or bitter. The milk in a latte helps to balance out the bitterness of the espresso and create a delicious, creamy flavor.
Macchiato
A macchiato is a strong espresso-based drink with a small amount of milk. The word “macchiato” comes from the Italian word for “stained,” which refers to the small amount of milk that is added to the espresso.
A classic macchiato is made by adding a dollop of steamed milk to a shot of espresso. The milk used for a macchiato is not steamed to create microfoam like in a latte, but rather simply heated. This gives the milk a different texture and taste than in a latte.
A macchiato is generally considered a stronger coffee drink because of the high concentration of espresso. It is not for the faint of heart as the espresso can have a strong and bitter taste. It is a great choice for those who want a strong shot of espresso but find it too harsh to drink straight.
Difference between Latte and Macchiato
The main difference between a latte and a macchiato is the amount of milk and the texture of the milk used in each drink. A latte is a milder coffee drink that has more steamed milk and microfoam than a macchiato. A macchiato has a small amount of milk that is simply heated and added to a shot of espresso.
The ratio of espresso to milk is also different in each drink. A classic latte has a ratio of 1:3, meaning it has one shot of espresso and three parts steamed milk. A classic macchiato has a ratio of 1:1, meaning it has equal parts espresso and milk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the difference between a latte and a macchiato goes beyond just the amount of milk in each drink. The texture and concentration of the espresso are also important factors to consider.
The choice between a latte and a macchiato ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a milder coffee drink with a creamy texture and less intense espresso flavor, then a latte is for you. If you want a strong coffee drink with a small amount of milk and a concentrated espresso flavor, then a macchiato is the way to go.
So next time you’re at your favorite coffee shop, you’ll know the difference between a latte and a macchiato. Happy sipping!
