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Comparing Coffee-Based Drinks: Macchiato vs Latte

Comparing Coffee-Based Drinks: Macchiato vs Latte

Everyone who enjoys coffee drinks has probably had a macchiato and a latte before. But what is the difference between these two drinks? Deciphering how espresso-based drinks like the macchiato vs cortado and macchiato vs latte vs cappuccino differ can be quite confusing. In this piece, we’re here to settle the score once and for all. Here’s what you need to know.

Compare the Macchiato vs Latte Side-by-Side

The Traditional Hot Macchiato

Macchiatos are most often served hot. While there are many variations on this drink, at its most basic level, definitionally speaking, a macchiato is just an espresso shot with a splash of steamed milk added. Because a shot of espresso is usually just an ounce, the serving size for a single macchiato is normally just over an ounce. Most of the “macchiatos” you’ve probably had at coffee shops are actually technically “latte macchiatos”. (Confusing, right?) Latte macchiatos are normally made with:
  • A layer of streamed milk added first
  • A layer of milk foam added next
  • A layer of espresso added last
It may be conceptually helpful to think of macchiato almost like a latte with the espresso added last instead of first. What’s the difference between a macchiato vs latte vs mocha? While mocha and macchiato may sound similar, mocha drinks are made with coffee and chocolate. Ellianos caffe mocha is made with “rich chocolate mixed with our bold espresso and creamy milk”. So, how does a latte macchiato differ from a traditional latte? For that, let’s dive into what a traditional latte is!

The Traditional Hot Latte

Lattes in their purest and most basic form are made with three main ingredients:
  • Espresso added first
  • Steamed milk added next
  • A think layer of foamed milk added last
Steamed milk is warm and slightly frothy, whereas foamed milk is extremely frothy. In a traditional latte, the ratio to remember is 1/3 espresso to 2/3 steamed milk with just a small topping of foamed milk.

Iced Macchiato vs Latte

Iced macchiatos and iced lattes are similar to their hot counterparts, but served cold! Of course, the cold temperature of ice doesn’t mix well with hot steamed milk or foamed milk. So for the iced version of lattes and macchiatos, steamed and frothed milk are usually subbed out in favor of regular milk or non-dairy milk.

Discover the Ellianos Difference

You’ve tried macchiatos, mochas, and lattes, but have you ever tried ‘em from Ellianos? Try one or try them all if you like! Find an Elliano’s near you and taste the difference today.
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