What is the difference between latte and cappuccino?
A cappuccino has roughly equal parts espresso, steamed milk and thick foam, so it tastes stronger and is served in a smaller cup. A latte has about one part espresso to three parts steamed milk with only a thin layer of foam, so it is milder and creamier.
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In this article
What is the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?
Both are espresso with steamed milk. The difference is how much milk and how much foam. A cappuccino is about equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foam. A latte is mostly steamed milk with a thin layer of foam on top.
Side-by-side comparison
| Cappuccino | Latte | |
|---|---|---|
| Ratio | about 1 : 1 : 1 espresso, milk, foam | about 1 : 3 espresso to steamed milk |
| Foam | thick, airy layer | thin, velvety layer |
| Cup size | smaller, about 150 to 180 ml | larger, about 240 to 260 ml |
| Taste | bolder espresso flavor | milder, creamier |
Cup sizes and ratios in this table come from Nespresso’s comparison. Cafes differ, so treat the numbers as typical, not fixed.
Which has more caffeine?
It depends on how many espresso shots go into the drink, not on the name. A single-shot cappuccino and a single-shot latte have the same espresso. A larger latte in a cafe may have two shots. Ask or check the size.
Which is stronger in taste?
The cappuccino, because there is less milk to dilute the espresso. Choose a latte if you like a smooth, milky drink and a cappuccino if you want the coffee flavor and a foamy top.
Variations
- Dry cappuccino: more foam and less milk, for a bolder coffee taste.
- Wet cappuccino: more milk and less foam, creamier and milder.
- Flavored latte: a latte with syrup such as vanilla, caramel or hazelnut.
Tips for ordering
- Ask for a dry cappuccino if you want more foam.
- Ask for an extra shot in a latte for a stronger taste.
- Flavored syrups and whole milk add calories, so check the menu.
People also ask
Is a latte stronger than a cappuccino?
No, a cappuccino tastes stronger because it has less milk. Caffeine depends on the number of espresso shots.
Which has more milk, a latte or cappuccino?
A latte has more steamed milk. A cappuccino has more foam.
Which is better with sugar?
Either works. A latte takes sweeteners and syrups easily, while a cappuccino is often drunk with a dusting of cocoa.
Sources
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