Differences between Cappuccino and Latte
Contents
Cappuccino vs. Latte[edit]
A cappuccino is an Italian coffee drink that is traditionally prepared with equal parts double espresso, steamed milk, and steamed milk foam.[1] A latte is a coffee drink of Italian origin made with espresso and steamed milk.[2] The primary distinction between the two beverages lies in the ratio of milk and foam to espresso.[3]
The name "cappuccino" is derived from the Capuchin friars, a Catholic monastic order founded in 16th-century Italy.[4][5] The color of the espresso mixed with frothed milk resembled the color of their robes.[4] The term "latte" is Italian for "milk." The modern versions of both drinks developed in the early 20th century, following the invention of the espresso machine.
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Cappuccino | Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Ratio | Traditionally equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam (1:1:1).[1] | More steamed milk and less foam than a cappuccino, with a common ratio being 1 part espresso to 2 or 3 parts milk. |
| Milk Foam | A thick layer of dense microfoam, often 1 cm or more. | A thin layer of light foam on top. |
| Taste | Stronger, more pronounced espresso flavor due to less milk. | Milder and milkier flavor. |
| Texture | Distinctly layered with a velvety and airy foam on top. | Creamy and smooth with integrated milk and espresso.[3] |
| Serving Size | Traditionally smaller, around 150–180 ml (5–6 ounces). | Typically larger, often 240 ml (8 ounces) or more. |
| Latte Art | The thick foam makes detailed latte art more challenging. | The thinner foam is ideal for creating intricate latte art. |
| Caloric Content | Generally contains fewer calories due to less milk. A 12-ounce (355 ml) cappuccino with whole milk has approximately 130 calories. | Contains more calories because of the higher milk content. A 12-ounce (355 ml) latte has about 210 calories. |
Preparation[edit]
The preparation for both drinks begins with a shot or double shot of espresso. The key difference occurs during the milk steaming process. For a cappuccino, the milk is steamed to create a significant amount of microfoam, a finely textured foam with microscopic bubbles. This is achieved by introducing more air into the milk during steaming. The result is a distinct separation of steamed milk at the bottom and a thick layer of foam on top.
For a latte, the milk is steamed to produce a smaller amount of microfoam, resulting in a creamier, more liquid texture. The steamed milk is then mixed more thoroughly with the espresso, creating a more uniform beverage with only a small layer of foam on the surface.
[3]= Variations =[edit]
Both cappuccinos and lattes are served in cafes worldwide and have numerous variations. Flavorings such as vanilla, caramel, or chocolate syrups can be added to either beverage. Iced versions are also common. Regional differences in preparation and serving size exist, with some coffee shops offering much larger sizes than the traditional Italian standards.
References[edit]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "thespruceeats.com". Retrieved January 14, 2026.
- ↑ "wikipedia.org". Retrieved January 14, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "commandcoffee.com". Retrieved January 14, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "merriam-webster.com". Retrieved January 14, 2026.
- ↑ "baristashop.co.uk". Retrieved January 14, 2026.
