Cappuccino vs Macchiato: Which One Is Right For You? Do you love coffee but get confused with all the different types and options available?
Two popular espresso-based drinks are cappuccino and macchiato, but what is the difference between the two? And which one should you choose?
In this article, we will compare cappuccino vs macchiato in terms of taste, caffeine level, milk-coffee ratio, time of day, extras and variations, preparation, and price, so you can make an informed decision. Taste:
Cappuccino is a milder drink with a creamy, smooth, and sweet taste.
The coffee flavor is not as bold as a macchiato, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more delicate coffee flavor. On the other hand, a macchiato is a bolder drink that has a stronger espresso coffee flavor.
The small amount of milk in a macchiato only acts to soften the strong coffee taste slightly, creating a unique and bold coffee experience. Caffeine Level:
Both cappuccino and macchiato contain espresso, making their caffeine levels quite similar.
A regular macchiato has around 80-120mg of caffeine, while a regular cappuccino has the same amount of caffeine, making them equally energizing drinks. Milk-Coffee Ratio:
Cappuccino and macchiato differ greatly in their milk-coffee ratio.
Cappuccino is made up of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. This creates a drink that is mainly made up of milk and has a creamy texture.
On the other hand, a macchiato is made up of 90% espresso and a small amount of milk foam. This creates a stronger coffee flavor, with only a touch of milk.
Latte macchiato is a variation of the traditional macchiato and is made up of milk with a small amount of coffee added instead. Time Of Day:
Cappuccino is a classic morning coffee drink and is often enjoyed with breakfast.
It is not a common drink in the afternoon and evenings. On the other hand, a macchiato is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Due to its stronger coffee flavor, it is often enjoyed as an afternoon or evening pick-me-up. Extras & Variations:
Both cappuccino and macchiato offer a range of extras and variations to customize your drink.
From caramel macchiato to latte macchiato, apple crisp macchiato, iced macchiato, wet or dry cappuccino, iced cappuccino, and more. Additionally, various milks such as oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Both of these drinks offer a range of customizable options that can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. Preparation:
Both cappuccino and macchiato are made using an espresso machine and milk frother.
Cappuccino requires more milk frothing, which creates the creamy texture and taste. On the other hand, a macchiato requires very little milk frothing, with only a spoonful of hot steamed milk foam added to the espresso.
Price:
The price of cappuccino vs macchiato can vary depending on where you are purchasing from. On average, cappuccino is priced between $2-3, while macchiato can cost between $3-5.
The price difference is due to the fact that macchiato uses less milk and requires more attention to preparing the espresso shot. In Conclusion,
Cappuccino and macchiato are both popular coffee drinks, each having its unique taste and preparation method.
Cappuccino is a milder coffee drink with a creamier texture and sweet taste due to the milk added, while macchiato is a bolder coffee drink, with a stronger espresso flavor. Both drinks offer a range of customization, and the time of day you drink it may depend on your preference.
The price of these drinks can vary, but both are affordable options that can be enjoyed at any cafe. Next time you’re deciding between the two, consider what taste and texture you prefer, and enjoy your cup of coffee with confidence.