A cappuccino has an equal parts ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and foam (think 1/3 each of espresso, steamed milk, and foam), while a latte has more steamed milk than foam (typically 1/6 espresso and 5/6 steamed milk).
The equal proportion of the base ingredients gives cappuccino a stronger coffee flavor while the higher quantity of steamed milk in latte makes it milder and creamier. Both drinks can have variations with added flavors or toppings like chocolate or cinnamon.
Difference Between Cappuccino and Latte
What is a Cappuccino?
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With its origin in Italy, it’s no surprise that the name “cappuccino” comes from the Italian word for “hood” or “cap,” which is used to refer to the layer of foam that sits on top of the drink.
It is made of equal quantities of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The foam is an essential component of a cappuccino, as it provides a creamy texture and a thick layer of foam on top of the drink.
To make a cappuccino, you start by brewing a shot of espresso and steaming equal parts milk and foam, using a steam wand or a milk frother.
Pour the milk and foam over the espresso shot and watch as the foam rests on top of the drink, creating a layered effect. The milk should be heated to around 150° F, but the foam should be cooler.
What is a Latte?
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Latte (short for caffè latte) also originated from Italy and the name comes from the Italian word for “milk,” which explains the large proportion of milk used.
It is made with one or two shots of espresso, plenty of steamed milk, and a thin layer of milk foam.
To make a latte, you start by brewing one or two shots of espresso, depending on how strong you want the drink to be.
Then steam your milk until it reaches a temperature of around 140-150°F and pour it into your espresso shot and use a spoon to hold back the foam until the milk reaches the top of the cup or as you desire.
Next, spoon a thin layer of milk foam on top of the drink.
Difference Between Cappuccino and Latte
As I previously stated, cappuccinos and lattes are both made with espresso and steamed milk, but in markedly different quantities.
1. Cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk (about 1/3 of each) while latte consists of mostly steamed milk with a smaller portion of espresso (about 1/6 of espresso)
2. Due to the higher proportion of espresso compared to steamed milk, cappuccino has a drier, more intense espresso flavor while latte has a milder, creamier flavor due to the higher proportion of steamed milk.
3. Cappuccino is typically served in a smaller cup than latte (around 6 oz) while latte is served in a larger cup than cappuccino (around 12 oz).
4. Latte tends to have a smoother, creamier texture due to the higher proportion of steamed milk and lower proportion of frothed milk while cappuccino has a foamier texture due to the higher proportion of frothed milk.
5. Lattes are often flavored with syrups or spices while cappuccino with cinnamon or cocoa powder on top.
Which is better between the two?
Neither is better than the other and choosing between the two comes down to personal preference.
If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor and a creamier texture, you might opt for a cappuccino. However, if you prefer a milder coffee flavor, a sweeter drink, and a larger serving size, you might prefer a latte.
Other factors to consider include milk texture and foam preference. The thin foam in a latte blends with the milk and espresso to create a smooth, sweeter beverage, which makes it a good choice for those who prefer a milder coffee flavor or a sweeter drink.
*In essence, choose a cappuccino if you prefer a thicker, creamier foam and a latte if you prefer a thinner, smoother foam.*
Or just try both and see which one sticks.
It’s worth noting that some coffee shops offer flavored variations of both drinks, such as vanilla or caramel lattes, which can add a new dimension of flavor to the drinks.
FAQs About Latte and Cappuccino
Which is sweeter: cappuccino or latte?
Latte is generally sweeter than cappuccino, thanks to the abundance of milk and the addition of flavorings.
Cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, hot milk, and milk froth. This gives it a stronger coffee flavor and somewhat drier texture.
So if you’re looking for a sweeter coffee drink, go for latte over cappuccino, because latte is way, way sweeter.
How is a latte different from a cappuccino?
Both are made from the same ingredients, but the quantity of each ingredient in the preparation and presentation brings the difference.
A latte is prepared with one shot of espresso or two, plenty of milk and a thin layer of froth. A cappuccino is prepared with the same amount of espresso, milk and a thick layer of froth.
Also, latte is served in larger quantities while cappuccino is served only in smaller quantities.
Both are made from the same ingredients, so they both have the same nutritional value. However, the use of milk can be dangerous for someone with lactose intolerance.
Also, due to the smaller amount of milk, it’s safe to say that cappuccino has more caffeine than latte.
Final Thoughts
While cappuccinos and lattes share some similarities, such as their espresso base and use of warm milk, they differ significantly in their milk foam content, texture, flavor, and serving style.
Beyond reading about the difference between cappuccino and latte, the very best way to fully understand the differences between them is to grab a cup of both at different times and *taste* for yourself.