Whether you are an experienced coffee lover or more of a novice when it comes to drinking coffee, it can be difficult to know the difference between a latte and a cappuccino.
These two drinks can appear to be exactly the same. To help you understand their difference, we have explained what both drinks are and the key differences between them.
What Is A Latte?
Lattes are made by mixing espresso and hot milk. Once this has been done, foamed milk is put on top of the latte mixture. The word “latte” is derived from the Italian word “caffellatte.”
This phrase translates as “coffee and milk.” As mentioned, these are the ingredients used to make this caffeinated drink.
The tops of lattes are regularly decorated. This is regularly done with a logo or flower. Though other coffees can also be given a design, lattes give their name to this artform.
These designs are known as latte art. Latte art can make drinks appear more aesthetically pleasing. If you love to put a stylish picture on social media, latte art will be right up your alley.
What Is A Cappuccino?
Like lattes, a cappuccino is made by combining espresso and steamed milk. If you want, you can add sugar to the cappuccino to give it a sweeter flavor. Furthermore, you can substitute the milk for cream.
The cappuccino is then topped with foamed milk. In many places, this foam is then coated in dust or powder. This is usually cocoa powder, though it can also be cinnamon. Cinnamon is particularly popular around Christmas time.
The drink is of Italian origin, though there is also evidence that it originated in Austria. Cappuccinos emerged in the 1700s. There are different variations of cappuccinos. This can include Cappuccino Freddo and iced cappuccino.
What Are The Differences Between Them?
On the surface, lattes and cappuccinos seem to be very similar. However, there are actually quite a few differences between them:
- While cappuccinos may be covered in dust, such as cocoa powder, lattes rarely are. These dustings can add more flavor to your coffee. You can also try adding nutmeg, cinnamon, or mint.
- These two drinks are traditionally served in different glasses. Cappuccinos are normally poured into smaller cups. Latte mugs or glasses tend to be much larger.
- Cappuccinos will frequently have a thicker layer of foamed milk poured on top of the drink than lattes. Flat whites have even less microfoam than lattes.
- In most cases, cappuccinos will be stronger than lattes. This is because they are often given a higher number of espresso shots. If not, cappuccinos will feature less milk. Consequently, they are better for people who prefer strong coffee.
What Are The Similarities Between Them?
People often get cappuccinos and lattes mixed up because they share a lot of similarities. These include:
- They both feature shots of espresso.
- They both contain steamed milk.
- They are both topped with microfoam.
- You can make both of them at home.
- You can make latte art on both of them.
- They both are of Italian origin (though the history of the cappuccino is more disputed).
- You can get iced variations of both drinks. These drinks are popular in the summer due to their cooling nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Lattes Sweeter Than Cappuccinos?
No, cappuccinos are sweeter than lattes. This is because of the powder toppings, which tend to be quite sweet tasting. This is usually a cocoa powder or chocolate, giving the coffee a sweeter taste.
Of course, if you want to make your latte sweeter, you can simply add more sugar.
Which Coffee Has The Most Milk?
If you enjoy milky coffee, you should probably go for a latte. It tends to have more milk than other types of coffee. If you do not like milk in your caffeine drink, opt for a black coffee.
Conclusion
While different types of coffee seem very similar, they actually have subtle differences. This is certainly the case when it comes to lattes and cappuccinos.
While most baristas can identify the difference between them, most coffee drinkers will consider them to be very similar. With this helpful guide, you will be better able to understand what separates a latte and a cappuccino.