Latte vs. Macchiato: The Ultimate Comparison
If you’re a coffee enthusiast, you may have heard of the terms “latte” and “macchiato.” These two popular coffee drinks often come up when discussing espresso-based beverages. But what exactly is the difference between a latte and a macchiato? In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the two drinks, so you can better understand what each one offers.
What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
At first glance, a latte and a macchiato may look similar, but they are quite different in terms of preparation, ingredients and flavour profile.
A latte consists of espresso and steamed milk. To prepare a latte, a shot or double shot of espresso is poured into a cup, followed by steamed milk and a small layer of foam. The ratio of espresso to milk and foam can vary, but typically a latte is made with one-third espresso and two-thirds steamed milk.
A macchiato, on the other hand, is an espresso-based drink that’s topped with a small dollop of foamed milk. This is a much smaller drink in comparison to a latte and the ratio is much stronger, typically containing one-third espresso and two-thirds milk and foam.
The key difference between a latte and a macchiato is the amount of steamed milk used in each. A latte has more steamed milk, while a macchiato has much less and is a stronger, bolder coffee experience.
Why should you choose a latte?
A latte is a popular choice for coffee lovers who prefer a milder, creamier flavour profile. The steamed milk used in a latte creates a smooth, creamy texture that balances out the strong, bold flavour of the espresso. A latte is also a great option for those who prefer a larger drink, as it typically comes in a larger cup compared to a macchiato.
Another advantage of a latte is that it’s a versatile drink that you can personalise by adding flavoured syrups or changing the type of milk used, from full-fat to soy or almond.
Why should you choose a macchiato?
A macchiato is for coffee lovers who want a bolder coffee experience. This drink highlights the flavours of the espresso, with a small addition of foamed milk to give it a smoother, velvety texture. The small size of a macchiato makes it a powerful punch for those who like a strong coffee hit.
If you’re someone who appreciates the nuances of coffee, then a macchiato is a great choice. It allows you to fully appreciate the natural flavours of the espresso, without being diluted by too much milk or foam.
Which one is better for you?
When it comes to choosing between a latte and a macchiato, it all comes down to your personal taste preference. If you prefer a mild, creamy coffee with a larger serving size, then a latte is the way to go. However, if you want a bolder, stronger coffee experience that’s smaller in size, then a macchiato is a great option.
Both drinks offer different flavour profiles and different ratios of milk to coffee, so it’s entirely up to you which one suits your taste buds best.
Can you make a macchiato into a latte?
If you like the idea of a macchiato, but prefer a milkier coffee, you can easily turn it into a latte by adding more steamed milk. This makes for a drink that’s somewhere between a latté and a macchiato, with a slightly stronger espresso experience, and a creamier texture.
Alternatively, you could opt for a latte macchiato instead, which is a variation of a latte that is prepared by pouring the steamed milk first, and then adding the espresso on top. This results in a drink with more foam, and a stronger espresso flavour.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the key differences between a latte and a macchiato come down to the amount of milk and foam used, and the flavour profile of each drink. Both are popular choices among coffee lovers, each offering its own unique experience.
Whether you prefer a creamy, milky coffee or a bold, strong coffee, both latte and macchiato have something for everyone. It all comes down to personal preference and what best suits your taste buds.
