If you’ve ever stood in front of a café menu wondering whether to order a cappuccino, latte, or macchiato — you’re not alone. These drinks are all made with espresso and milk, but their proportions, textures, and presentation set them apart.
In this article, we’ll break down the differences between these classic espresso-based drinks so you can confidently choose the one that suits your taste.
First: What They All Have in Common
All three drinks share two basic components:
- Espresso: A concentrated shot of coffee brewed under pressure
- Steamed milk and/or foam: Heated milk textured using a steam wand
The difference lies in how much milk is used, how it’s textured, and how it interacts with the espresso.
Cappuccino
What It Is:
A balanced, layered drink with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.
Typical Ratio:
- 1/3 espresso
- 1/3 steamed milk
- 1/3 milk foam
Flavor and Texture:
- Stronger coffee flavor than a latte due to less milk
- Creamy foam on top, perfect for holding latte art or dustings of cocoa
- Light and airy in texture
Cup Size:
Typically served in a 150–180 ml (5–6 oz) cup
Best For:
Those who like a bold coffee presence with a velvety mouthfeel and a rich foam layer.
Latte
What It Is:
A creamy, milk-forward drink made with espresso and a larger amount of steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of foam.
Typical Ratio:
- 1/6 espresso
- 4/6 steamed milk
- 1/6 milk foam
Flavor and Texture:
- Mild coffee flavor due to more milk
- Smooth and creamy, excellent for flavor infusions (vanilla, caramel, etc.)
- Thin, silky layer of foam
Cup Size:
Usually served in a 240–350 ml (8–12 oz) cup or glass
Best For:
People who prefer a milder, milkier drink and enjoy sipping slowly. Ideal for flavor add-ins.
Macchiato
What It Is:
An espresso “marked” with a small amount of milk or foam — hence the name macchiato, which means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian.
Two Main Variations:
- Traditional macchiato: A single or double shot of espresso with just a dollop of foam
- Latte macchiato: Steamed milk “stained” with a shot of espresso, often layered in a tall glass
Flavor and Texture:
- Strongest coffee flavor of the three
- Less creamy — more about highlighting the espresso
Cup Size:
Served in a 60–90 ml (2–3 oz) demitasse (traditional) or a tall glass (latte macchiato)
Best For:
Coffee purists or those who want the intensity of espresso with just a touch of softness.
Comparison at a Glance
| Drink | Espresso | Steamed Milk | Milk Foam | Size | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cappuccino | 1/3 | 1/3 | 1/3 | 5–6 oz | Balanced, bold |
| Latte | 1/6 | 4/6 | 1/6 | 8–12 oz | Mild, creamy |
| Macchiato | 90%+ | Minimal | Optional | 2–3 oz | Intense, concentrated |
Which One Should You Choose?
- Want bold flavor with rich foam? Choose a cappuccino
- Prefer a smooth, milk-forward drink? Go for a latte
- Craving strong coffee with just a soft touch? Try a macchiato
If you’re unsure, try all three — it’s a great way to explore the spectrum of espresso and milk combinations.
Bonus: Other Milk-Based Espresso Drinks
- Flat white: Similar to a latte but with less milk and finer microfoam, offering stronger coffee taste and a velvety texture
- Cortado: Equal parts espresso and steamed milk — smooth and intense
- Mocha: A latte with chocolate syrup added
Final Sip: Know Your Cup
Understanding the differences between cappuccino, latte, and macchiato can help you order with confidence — or even make your favorites at home. These drinks aren’t just about ingredients — they’re about balance, texture, and personal preference.
So whether you’re starting your day or taking an afternoon break, there’s a coffee style to match every mood. Drink up and enjoy the art in your cup.