Have you ever found yourself confused between choosing a cappuccino vs latte, and couldn’t decide which one to choose?
If so, then you are not alone.
Although both are popular coffee drinks, they are quite different in terms of their taste, texture, and ingredients.
Understanding these differences can help you make better choices the next time you visit a café or make coffee at home.
To make things easier, in this blog, we’ll help you will discover:
- The origin and ingredients of both the drinks.
- Main differences in cappuccino vs latte in terms of taste, texture, calories, presentation, etc.
- Which one to choose based on your personal preferences.
- Useful tips to make both beverages at home, even if you are a beginner.
Whether you’re a coffee lover or a beginner looking to expand your coffee knowledge, this guide will help you make the right choice the next time you’re wondering which drink is best for you.
So grab your favorite mug, and let’s dive into the delicious world of cappuccino vs latte!
What Is a Cappuccino?
Cappuccino is a classic espresso-based coffee drink. It is made from three main ingredients: espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.
It follows a 1:1:1 ratio. This means if you use one shot of espresso, you add the same amount of steamed milk and foam.
This drink originated in Italy, where it became a breakfast staple. Its name comes from the Capuchin monks, because the color of the espresso mixed with the foamed milk resembles the color of their brown hooded robes.
Cappuccino is served in small cups, usually about 150–180 milliliters. This makes the coffee taste more pronounced.
It is often dusted with cocoa powder or cinnamon, making it a popular option in many cafes around the world.
Key characteristics of Cappuccino are:
- Strong taste of coffee due to less milk.
- A layer of thick, velvety foam.
If you’re comparing cappuccino vs latte, cappuccinos stand out for their stronger espresso taste and rich foam texture.
What Is a Latte?
Latte is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of foam.
The standard ratio is 1 part espresso and 3 or 4 parts steamed milk. This creates a milky flavor.
The latte is believed to have Italian origins but has gained global popularity, particularly in American coffee culture.
They are often served in large cups, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy coffee enriched with milk.
Many cafés also customize lattes with syrups or plant-based milks, providing more variety for drinkers.
Key characteristics of latte are:
- A mild, creamy taste due to more milk.
- Smooth texture with a light froth layer.
- A great base for latte art, such as hearts or leaves.
If you compare cappuccino vs latte, latte is better for those who prefer milder coffee taste.
Key Differences: Cappuccino vs Latte
The main differences in cappuccino vs latte depend on your coffee strength, creaminess, and even how you like your drink to be served. Below is a detailed comparison that will help you decide which drink suits your taste:
| Feature | Cappuccino | Latte |
| Ingredients and Ratios | Cappuccino is made with equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and foam (1:1:1). This balance keeps the espresso flavor dominant. | Lattes use more steamed milk than foam, usually in a ratio of 1:3 or 1:4. The milk softens the flavor of the coffee. |
| Taste Profile | Cappuccinos have a bold, strong coffee flavor. The smaller amount of milk ensures that the espresso flavor is noticeable. | Lattes are creamier and less intense, as the higher amount of milk dilutes the strength of the espresso. |
| Texture | The thick foam layer on the cappuccino creates a velvety texture. Each sip consists of a mixture of foam and coffee. | The texture of the latte is smooth, with a thin foam layer adding subtle richness without overpowering the milk. |
| Calorie Count | Cappuccinos generally have fewer calories due to less milk being used. A standard cappuccino may feel lighter. | Lattes have more calories because they contain a higher amount of steamed milk, making them heavier and richer. |
| Presentation | Cappuccino is traditionally served in a small cup with a dense foam cap, which is often sprinkled with cocoa powder. | Lattes are served in larger cups or glasses, often decorated with intricate latte art such as hearts or flowers. |
Which One Should You Choose?
Deciding between a cappuccino and a latte depends on your taste, health goals, and how you want to customize your coffee. Here’s how cappuccino vs latte differ according to individual preferences.
Personal Taste
Do you love a strong flavor of coffee with a lighter feel to start your mornings? A cappuccino can be your ideal choice.
Latte, on the other hand, is a better option if you prefer a creamy, smooth drink that you can sip anytime through the day.
Health Considerations
If you are counting your calories, cappuccinos can be a good option for you. It uses less milk, which makes it a lighter option for calorie-conscious individuals.
However, if you prefer milk-rich drinks, lattes are a good choice. The steamed milk adds more calories but also makes it filling.
For a healthier option, both drinks pair well with skim or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Customization Options
Both cappuccinos and lattes are easy to customize. You can add syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut to add a personal taste.
If you prefer non-dairy milk, options like almond milk work great in both cappuccinos and lattes.
Want more caffeine? You can add an extra shot of espresso to either drink to boost the coffee strength.
Cappuccino vs Latte: How to Make Both at Home
Making coffee at home can save you time and be quite fun while also letting you perfect your skills. Here’s how you can make cappuccino and latte at home:
Cappuccino Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup of strong brewed coffee or espresso.
- 1/3 cup of milk.
Tools:
- An espresso machine, stovetop Moka pot, or a French press for strong coffee.
- A handheld frother, whisk, or jar for frothing milk.
Steps:
- Brew strong coffee or espresso using a Moka pot or French press.
- Heat the milk in a small pan or in the microwave, but do not let it boil.
- Froth the milk using a handheld frother or by shaking it vigorously in a sealed jar.
- Pour the prepared coffee into a cup, then add an equal amount of steamed milk.
- Pour the froth on top to complete a 1:1:1 ratio of coffee, milk, and froth.
Latte Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of strong brewed coffee or espresso.
- 3/4 cup of milk.
Tools:
- An espresso machine, stovetop Moka pot, or French press for the coffee.
- A handheld frother, whisk, or jar for steaming milk.
Steps:
- Prepare strong coffee or espresso as your base.
- Heat the milk in a pan or microwave until hot, taking care not to boil it.
- Froth the milk lightly to get a creamy texture with minimum foam.
- Add the steamed milk to the coffee in a ratio of 1:3 or 1:4.
- Add a small layer of foam on top for a finished look.
Tips for Beginners
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, start with simple, budget-friendly equipment like a manual milk frother. You can easily get one from Amazon.
- Practice steaming milk to get the right texture for both cappuccinos and lattes.
- If you don’t have a frother, shake the milk in the jar—this works well for frothing.
- Learn to pour the milk slowly for latte art or neat layers of foam.
When trying to make a cappuccino vs latte at home, tools and ratios are important. Both drinks are customizable and worth the try!
To Sum Up
Cappuccino vs latte offers two different coffee experiences, each with unique flavors, textures, and preparation methods.
Try both drinks at home to find your favorite one. Adjust the ingredients and preparation according to your preferences.
Coffee is personal, so experiment with flavors and textures to make it just how you want it.
If you liked this guide, check out more of our blogs. Keep brewing!