Latte vs Macchiato: Understanding Coffee Differences
Coffee lovers around the world enjoy different varieties of coffee drinks depending on their taste and preference. Two of the most popular coffee drinks are latte and macchiato, but many people get confused between the two. In this article, we will highlight the differences between a latte and a macchiato and help you understand which one you should choose based on your taste and preference.
What’s the difference between a latte and a macchiato?
A latte and a macchiato are two different coffee drinks, and the key difference between the two is the amount of milk and coffee used in them. Let’s take a closer look at each drink to understand their differences:
Latte: A latte is a coffee drink that consists of espresso, steamed milk, and a small layer of foam on top. A typical latte contains approximately 1-2 ounces of espresso and 8-10 ounces of steamed milk. The milk in a latte is usually mixed with the espresso and forms the majority of the drink. The foam on top is often used for latte art, which is a popular trend in coffee shops around the world.
Macchiato: A macchiato is a coffee drink that consists of espresso and a small amount of steamed milk. The word “macchiato” is derived from the Italian word “macchiare,” which means to stain or mark. In a macchiato, a small amount of milk is added to “mark” or “stain” the espresso. The milk in a macchiato is usually steamed and then added to the espresso, like a traditional shot of espresso.
How are lattes and macchiatos made?
The preparation of a latte and a macchiato is different due to the amount of milk and coffee used in each drink. Let’s take a look at how each drink is made:
Latte: To make a latte, baristas pull a double shot of espresso and then steam 8-10 ounces of milk. The steamed milk is then poured into a cup containing the espresso shots and topped with a small layer of foam made from the steamed milk.
Macchiato: To make a macchiato, baristas pull a single shot of espresso and then steam a small amount of milk, typically less than 1 ounce. The steamed milk is then added to the espresso shot, creating a mark or stain on top of the coffee.
What do lattes and macchiatos taste like?
Lattes and macchiatos have different flavors due to the amount of milk and coffee used in each drink. Here is a brief breakdown of the taste of each coffee drink:
Latte: Lattes have a creamy and smooth taste due to the larger amount of milk used in the drink. The espresso in a latte is balanced with the steamed milk, making it less strong and more sweet.
Macchiato: Macchiatos have a stronger taste due to the smaller amount of milk used in the drink. The espresso in a macchiato is more dominant, giving it a bolder and more robust flavor profile.
Which one should I choose?
Choosing between a latte and a macchiato comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a creamier and smoother coffee drink with less pronounced coffee flavor, then a latte is the way to go. If you prefer a stronger and bolder coffee flavor with less milk, then a macchiato is the better option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lattes and macchiatos are two different coffee drinks that consist of espresso and steamed milk. The key difference between the two is the amount of milk used, with lattes containing more milk and macchiatos containing less. The taste of each drink also varies, with lattes having a creamier and smoother taste and macchiatos having a bolder and more robust flavor profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, and coffee lovers can enjoy both drinks based on their taste and preference.
