The most significant difference between a latte and a cappuccino lies in the texture and amount of milk used in the drink.
Key Differences: Latte vs. Cappuccino
While both coffee drinks are made with espresso and steamed milk, the way the milk is prepared and combined creates distinct characteristics. According to the reference, the most obvious difference between a latte and a cappuccino is the texture of the milk inside the coffee.
Milk Texture and Mouthfeel
- Latte: The steamed milk in a latte typically has less foam and a smoother, more liquid consistency. This gives the latte a thinner mouthfeel, allowing the espresso to blend more seamlessly with the milk. It feels creamy and smooth on the palate.
- Cappuccino: A cappuccino features a substantial layer of thick, foamy milk (often described as full froth). The reference notes that this full froth milk is a little heavier on the palate. The foam provides a distinct texture contrast to the liquid milk and espresso underneath.
Components and Ratios
Both drinks start with a shot (or two) of espresso. The differences arise in the milk preparation:
- Latte: Typically made with more steamed milk than foam. The ratio is often around 1 part espresso, 2 parts steamed milk, and a thin layer (about 1 cm) of microfoam on top. This results in a larger, milkier drink.
- Cappuccino: Made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. The ratio is traditionally 1:1:1, meaning 1 part espresso, 1 part steamed milk, and 1 part milk foam. This creates a balanced drink with distinct layers.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Latte | Cappuccino |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso | Typically 1 shot | Typically 1 shot |
| Steamed Milk | High amount | Equal amount to espresso and foam |
| Milk Foam | Thin layer (microfoam) | Thick, significant layer (full froth) |
| Ratio | Approx. 1:2:0.5 (Espresso:Milk:Foam) | Approx. 1:1:1 (Espresso:Milk:Foam) |
| Milk Texture | Smooth, thinner mouthfeel | Heavier on the palate due to full froth milk |
| Size | Generally larger | Generally smaller |
| Mouthfeel | Creamy, smooth | Layered, with distinct foam texture |
Understanding the Foam
The quality of the milk foam is crucial for both drinks. For lattes, the goal is often 'microfoam' – a velvety, almost paint-like texture with tiny bubbles that integrates well with the milk. For cappuccinos, a thicker, more stable foam with slightly larger bubbles is desired to create the distinct layer.
In summary, while both are espresso-based drinks with milk, the latte emphasizes smooth, steamed milk with minimal foam, resulting in a thinner mouthfeel, whereas the cappuccino balances espresso, steamed milk, and a significant amount of heavier foam.
