Cappuccino vs Latte: Understanding the Key Differences
When it comes to coffee drinks, it’s hard to go past the classics: cappuccinos and lattes.
Both start with espresso, then add either steamed milk or frothed milk, but the difference is in the ratio.
Understanding the key differences between these two drinks can help you make a better-informed decision at the coffee shop.
Written by
- Redaction Team
- Body, Personal Development
Table of Contents
What is a latte?
A latte is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, with a layer of foam on top. The name “latte” comes from the Italian caffè latte, which means “milk coffee”. It’s one of the most popular espresso-based drinks around the world, mainly because of its milder coffee flavor and airy texture.
Latte's key ingredients
A standard latte is made with one shot of espresso and about 6 ounces of steamed milk. The espresso shot is the base of the drink, and the steamed milk is added to it. The layer of foam on top of the latte is made by frothed milk using steam from the espresso machine.
History of latte
The latte originated in Italy in the 17th century, where it was a breakfast drink for the working class. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the drink became popular in the United States.
Difference between latte and cappuccino
The main difference between a latte and a cappuccino is the amount of steamed milk and foam in each drink. Lattes typically have more steamed milk and a thin layer of foam, while cappuccinos have a thick layer of foam on top and less steamed milk. If you prefer a milder espresso coffee flavor, a latte may be your drink of choice.
What is a cappuccino?
Like a latte, a cappuccino is an espresso-based drink, but it has a different milk-to-coffee ratio than a latte. A cappuccino is a coffee drink that is made with a double shot of espresso and steamed milk, topped off with a thick layer of froth.
Cappuccino's key ingredients
A standard cappuccino is made with two shots of espresso and about 2-3 ounces of steamed milk. The steamed milk is poured into the espresso, and a layer of foam is added on top. A good cappuccino has a balance of espresso, steamed milk, and foam.
History of cappuccino
The cappuccino was first made in Italy, where it was typically consumed in the morning. The name comes from the Capuchin friars, who wore brown robes with hoods that resembled the color of the drink.
Difference between cappuccino and latte
The main difference between a cappuccino and a latte is the ratio of milk to foam. A cappuccino has more foam than a latte, making it a thicker and creamier drink. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor and a thicker drink, a cappuccino may be your drink of choice.
How are lattes and cappuccinos made?
The process of making a latte
To make a latte, a single shot of espresso is brewed, and the steamed milk is added to the espresso. Finally, a layer of foam is added to the top of the milk. The barista carefully pours the steamed milk into the espresso from a pitcher to avoid spilling.
The process of making a cappuccino
To make a cappuccino, a double shot of espresso is brewed, and steamed milk is added to the espresso. Finally, a thick layer of foam is added to the top of the milk. The ratio of milk to coffee is different for a cappuccino when compared to a latte.
What is an espresso shot?
An espresso shot is the base of both lattes and cappuccinos. It’s made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans under high pressure.
What are the differences in flavor and texture?
Foam-to-milk ratio in lattes and cappuccinos
The main difference in texture between a latte and a cappuccino is the ratio of foam to milk. Lattes have a thin layer of foam, while cappuccinos have a thick layer of foam. The texture of a latte is much creamier than a cappuccino.
Latte's flavor and texture
Lattes have a milder coffee flavor than cappuccinos because of the higher ratio of milk to coffee. The texture of a latte is silky and smooth, with a thin layer of foam on top.
Cappuccino's flavor and texture
Cappuccinos have a stronger coffee flavor than lattes because of the lower ratio of milk to coffee. The texture of a cappuccino is creamy and thick, with a thick layer of foam on top.
Latte vs Cappuccino: Which One Should You Choose?
Preference for milk and foam ratio
The decision to choose between a latte and a cappuccino depends on your personal preference for coffee-to-milk and foam ratio. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor and less milk, then a cappuccino is the best choice for you.
Differences in coffee flavor and caffeine content
Cappuccinos and lattes are similar in caffeine content because they both start with a shot of espresso. However, a cappuccino has a stronger coffee flavor and a thicker texture, while a latte has a milder coffee flavor and a creamier texture.
Latte art and presentation
Latte art is a popular trend in coffee shops, and it’s easier to create with a latte because of the thinner layer of foam. A cappuccino’s larger amount of foam makes it harder to create intricate designs. If presentation is important to you, a latte is a better choice.
Ultimately, the decision to choose between a cappuccino and a latte comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a milder coffee flavor or a stronger one, there’s a coffee drink out there for everyone.
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