Coffee is a drink that unites the world, yet it also offers a vast diversity of flavors and preparation methods. Two popular options that often cause confusion are the latte macchiato and the espresso macchiato.
Although they both have "macchiato" in their names, they are completely different coffee creations. Read on to learn more about the differences between the two coffees!
Latte macchiato
More milk, less coffee
Let's begin by exploring the Latte Macchiato, a coffee drink popularized for its smooth and creamy texture. In Italian, "latte" means milk, and "macchiato" means stained or marked. The Latte Macchiato is therefore a coffee made primarily of milk with a hint of coffee.
Ingredients for a latte macchiato
- Warm milk
- Espresso
Preparation method
- Start by frothing warm milk. This can be done using a steam wand in an espresso machine or in another suitable way.
- Slowly pour the frothed milk into a glass. The milk will pool at the bottom of the glass.
- Then, espresso is poured over the milk, creating a "mark" in the milk layer. This gives the Latte Macchiato its characteristic appearance.
The result is a deliciously smooth coffee drink where the milk takes center stage and the espresso is only subtly present. The Latte Macchiato is perfect for lovers of softer, milder coffee flavors.
Espresso macchiato
A strong flavour bomb
Now let's focus on the Espresso Macchiato, a coffee that, despite its small size, packs a punch. Unlike the Latte Macchiato, the Espresso Macchiato is pure coffee with a hint of milk.
Ingredients for an espresso macchiato
- Espresso
- A dash of steamed milk
Preparation method
- Start by preparing a high-quality espresso. This is usually done using an espresso machine.
- Add a small amount of steamed milk to the espresso. The goal is to only lightly "mark" or "stain" the espresso with milk.
The result is a concentrated, powerful coffee with a subtle sweetness and creaminess from the milk. The Espresso Macchiato is a favorite among coffee purists who enjoy the pure taste of espresso.
The main differences between Latte Macchiato and Espresso Macchiato
Ratio of coffee and milk:
- Latte Macchiato: Dominant milk with a hint of espresso.
- Espresso Macchiato: Dominant espresso with a hint of steamed milk.
Presentation:
- Latte Macchiato: Layered with the milk at the bottom and the espresso on top.
- Espresso Macchiato: A single shot of espresso with a touch of milk, usually in the same cup.
Flavor profile:
- Latte Macchiato: Softer, creamier, and milder in taste.
- Espresso Macchiato: Strong, intense, and concentrated.
Coffee experience:
- Latte Macchiato: For those who love a mild, creamy coffee.
- Espresso Macchiato: Ideal for lovers of strong, intense coffee flavors.
Which Macchiato do you choose?
Now that you understand the difference between a latte macchiato and an espresso macchiato, the question is which one to choose. The answer depends on your personal taste preference and the coffee experience you're looking for.
If you enjoy a smooth, creamy coffee that envelops you like a warm blanket, then the Latte Macchiato is an excellent choice. It's perfect for enjoying when you need some relaxation and comfort.
On the other hand, if you prefer a strong, robust coffee that awakens your taste buds, the Espresso Macchiato won't disappoint. It's the ultimate choice for those who want to experience the pure essence of coffee.
