What is the Difference Between Cappuccino and Macchiato? 

Whether you’re a seasoned coffee drinker or just getting into the world of craft coffees, it can be overwhelming to understand all the different types of coffee drinks. There are so many coffee lingos and words that describe different coffee drinks that it can be difficult to keep them all straight. In this blog post, we’ll cover the differences between two popular coffee drinks—cappuccino and macchiato—so you can order with confidence next time you’re at your local cafe. 

Cappuccino vs. Macchiato 

At first glance, cappuccino and macchiato might look like the same type of drink. While they both involve espresso, there are a few key differences between these two popular Italian drinks. Let’s take a closer look at each one. 

Cappuccino – A cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. It’s served in a larger cup than espresso, usually 6-8 ounces. The foam helps keep the drink hot longer and adds a creamy texture to the liquid. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want something more substantial than an espresso but still want to get their caffeine fix. 

Macchiato – A macchiato is also made with espresso but has less milk than a cappuccino (usually only ¼ cup). The primary difference between a macchiato and cappuccino is that macchiatos don’t have any foam on top; instead they are topped off with just a bit of steamed milk that sits on top of the espresso shot (hence why it’s called macchiato which means “marked” in Italian). This makes for a stronger flavor than cappuccinos as well as allowing for more control over sweetness since no sweetener is used in making this type of drink. 

No matter which one you prefer—cappuccino or macchiato—you now know what sets these two popular Italian drinks apart from each other. Both offer robust flavors and make for perfect afternoon pick-me-ups when you need some extra energy or just want to take a break from your day-to-day routine. With this new knowledge of coffee lingo under your belt, you’ll be able to confidently order either one wherever your travels may take you.

We have enjoyed our cappuccino in an older version of these dual wall glass mugs. With the outside cool and the inner part staying warm, it can actually be a weird experience. But, always too much fun to see the drink mix through the clear sides. Please note that if you purchase from clicking on the link, I will get a tiny bit of that sale to help keep this site going.

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