When you step into a coffee shop, two of the most popular drinks on the menu are the cappuccino and the latte. Both drinks are espresso-based and use milk, but they differ significantly in taste, texture, and preparation. So, what is a cappuccino vs latte, and how can you choose between them? Understanding the differences between these two coffee classics can help you make the right choice for your coffee cravings. In this article, we will explore the distinctions between a cappuccino and a latte, covering everything from how to make them to their health benefits.
What is a Cappuccino?
To understand what is a cappuccino vs latte, let’s first explore the cappuccino. The cappuccino is an espresso-based drink that originated in Italy. Its name comes from the Capuchin monks, as the color of the coffee resembles their brown robes.
In a classic cappuccino, the espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam are used in equal proportions. This gives the cappuccino a rich, bold coffee flavor with a light and airy texture from the foam on top. The thick layer of foam also helps to keep the drink warmer for longer.
Cappuccinos are typically served in smaller cups, usually around 6 ounces. The smaller size allows the espresso flavor to shine through, making cappuccinos a popular choice for those who like strong coffee with a smooth finish. If you enjoy a bold coffee flavor with a creamy foam texture, a cappuccino might be the drink for you.
What is a Latte?
Now that we know what a cappuccino is, let’s talk about the latte. What is a cappuccino vs latte? One key difference lies in the milk content. A latte, which is short for “caffè latte” (meaning milk coffee in Italian), contains much more milk than a cappuccino. Baristas typically prepare lattes with one shot of espresso, followed by three parts steamed milk, and finish with a small layer of milk foam on top.
The higher milk content gives lattes a much creamier and smoother texture compared to cappuccinos. Because of this, the espresso flavor in a latte is more subtle and less intense. Lattes are served in larger cups, ranging from 8 to 12 ounces or more. This makes them a more filling drink, perfect for those who prefer a milder coffee taste with a lot of creamy milk.
Coffee shops often customize lattes with flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut, making them a versatile and popular choice among customers. Whether you’re new to coffee or prefer a gentler taste, a latte is a great option.
Key Differences Between Cappuccino and Latte
When comparing what is a cappuccino vs latte, the most significant differences lie in the milk-to-espresso ratio, texture, flavor, and presentation. Let’s break these differences down:
1. Milk Content
The primary difference between cappuccino and latte is the amount of milk used. Cappuccinos have a 1:1:1 ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, meaning there’s less milk overall. In contrast, lattes use significantly more milk, usually in a 1:3 ratio of espresso to milk, with a small amount of foam on top.
2. Texture
Another major distinction in what is a cappuccino vs latte is the texture of the drinks. Cappuccinos have a light and airy texture due to the thick foam on top, which adds a frothy mouthfeel. Lattes, on the other hand, have a much creamier texture because of the larger amount of steamed milk. The foam on a latte is much thinner and smoother, blending seamlessly with the milk and espresso.
3. Coffee Flavor
There is a notable difference in taste between a cappuccino and a latte. Cappuccinos offer a more intense coffee flavor since they use less milk and have a thicker layer of foam. The bold espresso taste shines through more in a cappuccino, making it a stronger drink. In contrast, lattes taste much milkier and have a more subdued coffee flavor due to the higher milk content.
4. Layering
When learning what is a cappuccino vs latte, it’s important to understand how the drinks are layered. A cappuccino consists of distinct layers of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, giving it a layered texture and taste. You sip through the foam to reach the espresso, which creates a dynamic drinking experience. In a latte, the steamed milk and espresso are blended, resulting in a more consistent flavor throughout the drink.
5. Serving Size
Baristas usually serve cappuccinos in smaller cups, around 6 ounces, which makes the drink more concentrated. In contrast, they serve lattes in larger cups, typically ranging from 8 to 12 ounces or even more. The larger size accommodates the extra milk, making a latte a more filling drink.
6. Visual Appearance
When you order a latte, you might notice the intricate designs on the surface—this is known as latte art. The smooth microfoam of a latte makes it easier for baristas to create latte art, adding a decorative touch. Cappuccinos, with their thick foam, don’t usually feature latte art. Instead, the foam is typically dense and sits on top of the drink, creating a fluffy, cloud-like appearance.
Understanding these differences will help you better appreciate the unique qualities of both drinks.
How Cappuccinos are Made
To fully grasp what is a cappuccino vs latte, it’s essential to know how each drink is made. Making a cappuccino requires a specific process to achieve the right balance between espresso, milk, and foam.
1. Brew the Espresso
Begin by brewing a shot (or double shot) of espresso. A good espresso machine is necessary for creating a strong, rich base for the cappuccino.
2. Steam the Milk
Next, steam a small amount of milk. The goal is to create both steamed milk and a thick, dense foam. The key to achieving the perfect foam is to hold the steam wand close to the surface of the milk, incorporating air to make the milk light and frothy.
3. Assemble the Cappuccino
Pour the steamed milk into the espresso, leaving enough room for the foam. The foam should rest on top, creating a clear separation between the milk and the foam. The best cappuccinos have equal layers of espresso, milk, and foam.
4. Variations
You can customize a cappuccino by adjusting the foam-to-milk ratio. A “dry cappuccino” contains more foam and less milk, while a “wet cappuccino” has more steamed milk and less foam.
Making a cappuccino takes skill and practice, but the result is a delicious, balanced coffee drink with a bold flavor and light texture.
How Lattes are Made
Lattes are a bit simpler to make than cappuccinos, thanks to the larger amount of milk used. Here’s how to make a latte:
1. Brew the Espresso
Start by brewing a shot or double shot of espresso. This forms the base of your latte and should be rich and aromatic.
2. Steam the Milk
Steam a larger amount of milk than you would for a cappuccino. Aim for a silky microfoam, which is lighter and smoother than the foam used in cappuccinos. The milk should be creamy and have a slight froth on top.
3. Pour and Mix
Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, allowing the milk to blend with the coffee. Hold back the foam with a spoon until the milk is fully poured, then add a thin layer of foam on top. This gives the latte its signature creamy texture.
4. Latte Art
If you want to get fancy, try your hand at latte art. Pouring the milk in specific patterns can create beautiful designs like hearts or leaves on the surface of the latte. Latte art adds a decorative touch that’s become a popular feature in coffee shops.
Lattes are often enjoyed with added flavors, like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. These flavored lattes are a great way to customize your drink and suit your taste preferences.
Which Drink is Stronger: Cappuccino or Latte?
When comparing what is a cappuccino vs latte in terms of strength, both drinks usually contain the same amount of espresso. However, the difference in milk content affects how strong each drink tastes.
A cappuccino tastes stronger because it uses less milk, allowing the espresso flavor to dominate. The thick foam also adds texture without diluting the coffee. A latte, on the other hand, contains more milk, which softens the intensity of the espresso. While both drinks have the same amount of caffeine, cappuccinos deliver a bolder flavor, while lattes provide a smoother, creamier taste.
Cappuccino vs Latte: Which One is Healthier?
If you’re considering health benefits, the main difference between a cappuccino and a latte is the amount of milk. Since lattes use more milk, they tend to have more calories than cappuccinos. If you’re watching your calorie intake, a cappuccino may be the better option, especially when made with skim or plant-based milk alternatives.
Cappuccinos are generally lower in calories because they contain less milk. A standard cappuccino made with skim milk has around 60 calories, while a latte made with whole milk can contain upwards of 200 calories, depending on the size.
You can make either drink healthier by choosing lower-fat milk options or using almond, oat, or soy milk. These alternatives are lower in calories and often have additional health benefits, like being lactose-free or containing more fiber.
Personal Preference: Cappuccino or Latte?
When deciding what is a cappuccino vs latte, it often comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a stronger coffee flavor and a light, frothy texture, you’ll likely prefer a cappuccino. The foam gives cappuccinos a unique mouthfeel, and the smaller size allows the espresso flavor to stand out.
Lattes, on the other hand, are ideal for people who prefer a creamier, milkier drink. The larger milk content makes lattes smoother and less intense than cappuccinos, which is perfect for those who like a gentler coffee taste.
Some coffee lovers prefer the artistic appeal of a latte with its latte art designs, while others appreciate the simplicity and boldness of a well-made cappuccino. The best way to find your favorite is to try both and see which one suits your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which has more caffeine, a latte or a cappuccino?
Baristas typically use the same amount of espresso in both drinks, which means they have identical caffeine content. However, cappuccinos taste stronger because they contain less milk. This smaller amount of milk allows the bold espresso flavor to take center stage, creating a more intense coffee experience compared to milkier drinks like lattes.
Can I add flavors to a cappuccino or latte?
You can definitely add flavored syrups such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to both cappuccinos and lattes. However, lattes are more commonly flavored because their higher milk content blends well with sweet syrups, creating a smoother and creamier drink. The extra milk in lattes makes them an ideal canvas for a variety of flavor additions, enhancing the overall sweetness.
Is a latte or cappuccino better for people who are lactose intolerant?
You can easily make both cappuccinos and lattes with lactose-free milk alternatives like almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. These alternatives offer a similar creamy texture and rich flavor without the lactose, making them great options for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based choices. They still deliver a satisfying coffee experience while accommodating dietary preferences.
Is it possible to make a cappuccino or latte at home without using an espresso machine?
You can easily make both cappuccinos and lattes at home using basic tools like a stovetop espresso maker or a French press. For frothing milk, a handheld frother works well, but if you don’t have one, you can simply shake the milk in a jar until it becomes frothy and then heat it in the microwave. This method allows you to enjoy café-quality drinks in the comfort of your home.
Conclusion
So, what is a cappuccino vs latte? Both drinks are delicious espresso-based coffee beverages, but they offer very different experiences. A cappuccino gives you a stronger, bolder coffee flavor with its balanced layers of espresso, steamed milk, and foam. A latte, on the other hand, delivers a smoother, creamier taste thanks to its higher milk content and thinner foam.
Ultimately, your choice between a cappuccino and a latte comes down to your personal preference. If you prefer a robust coffee flavor with a light, frothy texture, go for the cappuccino. If you enjoy a creamy, milky coffee drink that you can easily flavor, the latte makes the perfect option for you.
Both cappuccinos and lattes have their place in the world of coffee, and each offers something special. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold and foamy cappuccino or a smooth and creamy latte, there’s always something to enjoy in these classic coffee drinks.