Difference between: cappuccino and latte

Definitions:

  • Cappuccino: a hot beverage consisting of espresso coffee and steamed milk, often served with powdered cinnamon and topped with whipped cream.
  • Latte: hot espresso with steamed milk, usually topped with foamed milk.

And since they both include espresso…

  • Espresso: a strong coffee prepared by forcing live steam under pressure, or boiling water, through ground dark-roast coffee beans.

a cappuccino in a white teacup with a saucer and spoon, pretty design in foam

Cappuccino:

  • Consists of espresso and steamed milk.
  • Has a thick layer of foamed milk on top.
  • Is stronger than a latte.
  • Has less milk than a latte.

Latte:

  • Also consists of espresso and steamed milk.
  • Has a lot more milk than a cappuccino. 
  • Has a shorter layer of foamed milk on top.
  • Is creamier than a cappuccino.

The main difference is the milk content. Lattes have more.

In fact, according to Coffee-Brewing-Methods.com, a cappuccino is an even 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, and 1/3 foamed milk; a latte is 1/6 espresso, 4/6 steamed milk, and 1/6 foamed milk.

We can see why a latte is milkier.

Both can consist of other flavorings, and fun toppings such as cinnamon or shaved chocolate.

One thought on “Difference between: cappuccino and latte

  1. Give me the cappuccino, please! More coffee, a little steamed milk, a little foamed. Then of course, I have to add sugar. Sacrilege, right? Liquid candy.

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