Lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos are on nearly every coffee shop menu worldwide. But what are the differences between them? It’s a common question, and plenty of people aren’t sure exactly what they’re ordering.
This article is here to help. We’ll break down what each of these coffee beverages is made of and how they’re prepared. We’ll also explore caffeine levels, calorie counts, and some health considerations.
Understanding the differences between a cappuccino vs latte vs macchiato can help you make an informed choice — one that best fits your needs and your tastes!
Key Differences in Preparation and Ingredients
While all three drinks start with espresso, the proportion of milk and foam is what sets them apart. Here’s a closer look:
Latte: A Milk-Forward Beverage
A latte is made with one or two shots of espresso, steamed milk, and a thin layer of foam on top.
Lattes are very customizable and can be flavored with syrups, sauces, or spices like vanilla, caramel, or chocolate.
Cappuccino: An Equal Balance
A cappuccino is a drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. The key to a good cappuccino is the distinct layers of espresso, steamed milk, and a thick, airy foam.
The best cappuccinos are made with freshly pulled espresso and properly textured milk. The ideal cappuccino should have a balanced flavor, with a slightly bitter espresso flavor complemented by the sweetness of the milk.
Macchiato: Marked by Espresso
A macchiato is espresso that’s been “marked” with a small amount of foamed milk. The Italian word “macchiato” means “marked,” which refers to the espresso being marked with milk.
There are actually two types of macchiato: a traditional macchiato (espresso marked with foam) and a latte macchiato (milk marked with espresso). A traditional macchiato is stronger, while a latte macchiato is milkier and sweeter.
Caffeine: Which drink packs the biggest punch?
It’s tough to give exact caffeine figures because things like the type of bean, how it’s roasted, and the brewing method all play a role. Darker roasts, for example, are often thought to have more caffeine, but the difference is usually pretty small.
That said, a 16-ounce latte and a 16-ounce cappuccino will average around 173 mg of caffeine. Keep in mind that this can change depending on where you get your coffee and how it’s prepared.
A 2-ounce macchiato contains about 85 mg of caffeine. It has less caffeine because it’s a smaller drink that’s mostly espresso.
Finally, remember that everyone reacts to caffeine differently. Your weight, tolerance, and metabolism all change how caffeine affects you.
Calorie and Sugar Content: A Nutritional Breakdown
If you’re watching your weight or sugar intake, it’s helpful to know how these drinks stack up. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the exact nutritional content can vary depending on where you get your coffee and how it’s prepared.
Latte Calories
A 16-ounce latte typically has around 206 calories, most of which come from the milk. But watch out for those extras! Syrups, sweeteners, and flavored toppings can seriously bump up the calorie and sugar count. For example, a Starbucks Caramel Macchiato is around 250 calories, while a Dunkin’ Donuts Caramel Craze Signature Latte clocks in at a whopping 410 calories and 57 grams of sugar.
Cappuccino Calories
A 16-ounce cappuccino is generally a bit lighter, with around 130 calories. That’s because it has equal parts milk and foam, rather than mostly milk like a latte. But again, be careful with those added sugars and flavors.
Macchiato Calories
A 2-ounce macchiato is the leanest of the bunch, with only about 13 calories. That’s because it uses just a tiny bit of milk. Still, even a small amount of added sugar can make a difference, so think twice about that caramel drizzle.
Healthier Alternatives
Want to lighten things up? Try using oat milk or almond milk instead of whole milk. These alternatives are lower in both calories and sugar. Also, consider ordering the basic version of your drink and adding sweetener yourself. That way, you can control exactly how much sugar you’re getting.
Health Considerations and Moderation Tips
Coffee drinks can be part of a healthy lifestyle, as long as you’re aware of the potential benefits and risks.
Potential Health Benefits
Research from Harvard and other institutions shows that drinking three to five cups of coffee each day is associated with a lower risk of certain chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and some cancers.
Coffee also contains antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.
Potential Health Risks
For some people, coffee can trigger anxiety, insomnia, or digestive problems.
Too much sugar and too many calories can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other health problems.
Moderation and Mindful Consumption
It’s important to pay attention to how caffeine affects your body and personalize your coffee choices based on your individual needs. If needed, you might consider caffeine-free or half-caff options.
Keeping a food journal can help you track your coffee consumption, identify patterns, and spot any potential triggers for negative side effects.
If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s always a good idea to discuss your coffee intake with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a caramel macchiato a latte or cappuccino?
A caramel macchiato is more similar to a latte, though it’s its own unique drink. It typically consists of vanilla syrup, steamed milk, espresso, and caramel drizzle. The milk-to-espresso ratio is closer to a latte, but the layering of ingredients sets it apart from both lattes and cappuccinos. It is also sweeter than both due to the addition of caramel and vanilla.
What is the strongest coffee with milk?
The “strongest” coffee with milk depends on what you mean. If you’re talking about caffeine content, a latte or cappuccino made with extra espresso shots will be stronger than one with a single shot. If you’re talking about the intensity of coffee flavor, a cortado (equal parts espresso and steamed milk) or a flat white (similar to a latte but with a thinner layer of microfoam) will offer a more pronounced coffee taste because of the higher coffee-to-milk ratio.
What is the difference between cappuccino and latte vs. macchiato?
Cappuccinos have equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk, creating a balanced flavor and texture. Lattes have more steamed milk than espresso, with a thin layer of foam on top, resulting in a milder, milkier drink. A traditional macchiato is espresso “marked” with a dollop of foamed milk, offering a strong espresso flavor with a hint of milk sweetness. A caramel macchiato is a sweeter, layered drink.
Summary
So, what’s the difference between a latte, a cappuccino, and a macchiato? A latte is milk-forward, a cappuccino strikes a balance between espresso, steamed milk, and foam, and a macchiato lets the espresso shine.
If you’re watching your calories or caffeine intake, it’s good to know what’s in your favorite coffee drink. Knowing the nutritional information helps you make smart choices about what you’re eating and drinking.
The only way to know for sure which drink is right for you is to try them all! Ultimately, the best coffee is the one you enjoy responsibly and in moderation.