Share Post:
Coffee lovers everywhere face an age-old question: cappuccino or latte?
These two classic espresso drinks may seem similar at first glance, but theyโre quite different when it comes to taste, texture, and even personality.
If youโve ever been unsure which one suits you best, letโs break it down in a way that feels like chatting with a fellow coffee fan.
Cappuccinos and lattes both start with a base of espresso, but thatโs where their paths diverge. The key difference lies in the milkโand how itโs prepared and added.
Cappuccino: Bold and Balanced
A cappuccino is all about balance. Itโs made of:
- 1 part espresso: The strong, bold heart of the drink.
- 1 part steamed milk: Adds a creamy touch without overshadowing the coffee.
- 1 part milk foam: A fluffy top layer thatโs light yet indulgent.
This drink is typically served in a small cup, around 150-180 ml, so every sip delivers a harmonious blend of strong espresso, silky milk, and airy foam. Cappuccinos are great if you like your coffee with a bit of a kick but still crave creaminess.
Latte: Creamy and Smooth
Lattes, on the other hand, lean heavily on milk. The components include:
- 1 part espresso: A gentle foundation of coffee flavor.
- 3 parts steamed milk: The star of the show, creating a rich and velvety texture.
- A tiny dollop of foam: Just enough for a soft finish.
Because of the extra milk, lattes are served in larger glasses, usually 240-300 ml. The result? A drink thatโs creamy, comforting, and less intense than a cappuccino.
Iced Matcha Lattes, with their refreshing twist, offers a smooth, vibrant alternative to the traditional latte. Perfect if you prefer a smoother coffee experience.
Milk Matters: Texture and Taste
The texture of milk plays a massive role in how these drinks feel and taste. For cappuccinos, the milk is frothed to create a thick foam that sits on top of the espresso. It gives each sip a light, airy quality that contrasts beautifully with the bold coffee below.
Lattes, by comparison, are all about that silky smoothness. The milk is steamed just enough to create a velvety texture that blends seamlessly with the espresso. The foam layer on a latte is minimalโmore of a garnish than a feature.
Size and Presentation: Small and Bold or Large and Creamy?
View this post on Instagram
Cappuccinos are served in smaller cups to keep the flavors concentrated. Theyโre perfect if you like an intense coffee experience that doesnโt take too long to drink.
Lattes, with their larger size, are more of a slow-sipping kind of drink. Their creamy nature makes them ideal for long coffee dates or as a comforting pick-me-up while you work or relax.
Taste Profiles: Strong vs. Subtle
The Boldness of Cappuccinos
Cappuccinos are for those who love a coffee-forward drink. The equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam create a balanced taste thatโs rich and satisfying. The foam adds a light, almost dessert-like quality without overpowering the robust espresso flavor.
The Smoothness of Lattes
If youโre a fan of milky, mellow coffee, lattes are your best bet. The steamed milk tempers the espresso, creating a drink thatโs creamy and slightly sweet. The coffee notes are still there but in a more subtle, background role.
Calories and Customization
Curious about the calorie count? The milk is the main factor here.
- Cappuccinos: Lower in calories (around 80-120) because of the equal parts milk and foam.
- Lattes: Higher in calories (roughly 130-170) due to the larger amount of milk.
Of course, you can tweak either drink to suit your preferences. Use plant-based milk, add syrups, or experiment with different espresso blends to create a personalized cup.
Quick Comparison
Element
Cappuccino
Latte
Origin of Drink
First appeared in Northern Italy in the 1930s
The term was first used in English in an 1867 essay “Italian Journeys”; and redefined with espresso and milk-steaming technology
Ingredients and Ratios
1 Part Espresso, 1 Part Steamed Milk, 1 Part Milk Foam
1 Part Espresso, 3 Parts Steamed Milk, Dollop of Milk Foam
Milk Texture
Thick, frothy foam, creating a rich and creamy texture
Greater volume of smooth, steamed milk with a thin layer of foam for a velvety finish
Preparation
Milk is frothed to create more foam, then poured over the espresso
Milk is steamed but not overly frothed, then mixed with the espresso, with a small amount of foam spooned on top
Serving Size/Style
Usually served in smaller cups (150-180 ml)
Usually served in larger glasses (240-300 ml)
Calories
Approx. 80-120
Approx. 130-170
Taste Profile
Strong espresso flavor offering a balanced blend of bitterness, sweetness, and milkiness
Milkier and creamier, with the espresso serving as a flavourful undertone rather than the star of the show
The History Behind the Drinks
Both drinks originated in Italy but in different ways. The cappuccinoโs name comes from its resemblance to the brown robes of Capuchin monks. It became popular in cafes during the early 20th century when espresso machines made their debut.
Lattes, on the other hand, evolved from โcaffรจ e latte,โ which translates to โcoffee and milk.โ It wasnโt until the development of modern espresso machines that baristas began perfecting the creamy, dreamy drink we know today.
So, Which One Should You Try?
Choosing between a cappuccino and a latte depends on what youโre craving:
- Go for a cappuccino if you want a bold, balanced coffee with a frothy finish.
- Opt for a latte if youโre in the mood for something creamy, smooth, and comforting.
And rememberโthereโs no rule against enjoying both! Coffee is all about savoring the moment, so why not mix it up and explore?
No matter your choice, the beauty of coffee lies in its versatility. Whether youโre enjoying a classic cappuccino or a creamy latte, each cup has its own magic. So grab your mug, sip slowly, and let the coffee speak to your soul. Cheers!
