If you’ve ever stood at a coffee shop counter wondering what is the difference between coffee latte and cappuccino, you’re not alone. These two classic drinks are pillars of the coffee world, but their distinctions can seem fuzzy at first glance.
Both are made with espresso and steamed milk, but the way that milk is prepared and combined creates two entirely different experiences. Understanding the difference helps you order exactly what you’ll enjoy most. Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all.
What Is The Difference Between Coffee Latte And Cappuccino
At its core, the difference comes down to the ratio of espresso to milk to foam, and the texture of the milk itself. A cappuccino is a balanced trio of equal parts: one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third milk foam. A latte, short for “caffè latte,” is milk-forward: one part espresso to two or more parts steamed milk, with only a thin layer of microfoam on top.
This fundamental difference in build leads to variations in taste, texture, temperature, and even the traditional serving vessel. A cappuccino is stronger, richer, and has a distinct foam dome you can feel. A latte is creamier, milder, and designed for sipping.
The Cappuccino: A Strong, Foamy Classic
A traditional cappuccino is all about structure and intensity. It’s a smaller, more robust drink compared to its milky cousin. The name is said to come from the Capuchin friars, whose brown robes matched the drink’s color.
The hallmark of a great cappuccino is its thick, velvety foam. This isn’t the stiff, dry foam you sometimes see. Proper microfoam is creamy and pourable, blending seamlessly with the liquid beneath. It should feel light on your tongue but substantial enough to hold its shape.
Here’s the typical structure of a classic cappuccino:
- Bottom Layer: A single shot of espresso (sometimes a double).
- Middle Layer: A small amount of hot, steamed milk.
- Top Layer: A thick, airy layer of milk foam, about one-inch high.
Because of the higher foam-to-milk ratio, a cappuccino cools down a bit faster than a latte. The airy foam is a poor insulator. You’ll also notice the espresso flavor is much more pronounced, as it’s less diluted by liquid milk.
How to Make a Cappuccino at Home
- Pull a shot of espresso into a small, pre-warmed cup (ideally 5-6 oz).
- Steam your milk. Aim for more aeration initially to create a thick, creamy foam. The milk should expand in volume by about 30-50%.
- Tap the steaming pitcher on the counter and swirl it to break any large bubbles and integrate the foam with the milk.
- Pour the steamed milk and foam directly over the espresso. The goal is to get all that beautiful foam to float on top, creating a distinct layer.
The Latte: A Smooth, Milky Canvas
The latte is the smoother, gentler relative. Its full Italian name, “caffè latte,” literally means “milk coffee.” That tells you everything you need to know—this drink is about the comforting, sweet character of steamed milk, accented by espresso.
The texture is key. A latte has very little foam compared to a cappuccino. Instead, it relies on “microfoam”—tiny, silky bubbles that are fully integrated into the steamed milk. This creates a uniform, velvety liquid from top to bottom.
The standard build for a latte is much simpler:
- Bottom Layer: A single or double shot of espresso.
- Top Layer: A much larger volume of steamed milk with a thin layer of microfoam (about 1 cm).
Lattes are served in larger cups, usually 8-12 ounces or even bigger. The extra milk makes the drink sweeter naturally and mutes the espresso’s bitterness. This makes the latte a perfect vehicle for flavor syrups, and it’s the base for most latte art because of its smooth, flat surface.
How to Make a Latte at Home
- Pull a shot of espresso into a larger cup or mug.
- Steam your milk. Use less aeration than for a cappuccino. You want the milk to stretch just a little, creating a glossy, paint-like texture with tiny bubbles.
- Swirl the pitcher to homogenize the milk and microfoam.
- Pour the steamed milk slowly into the center of the espresso. As the cup fills, you can pour closer to the surface to layer the thin foam on top, or attempt some basic latte art.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Cappuccino vs. Latte
Let’s put them head-to-head. This table breaks down the key differences at a glance.
Ratio:
Cappuccino: 1:1:1 (espresso, milk, foam).
Latte: 1:3+ (espresso to steamed milk, with a foam cap).
Size:
Cappuccino: Typically 5-6 oz.
Latte: Typically 8-12 oz or larger.
Texture:
Cappuccino: Distinct, thick, fluffy foam layer.
Latte: Uniform, silky microfoam mixed throughout; thin foam top.
Flavor Intensity:
Cappuccino: Strong, pronounced espresso flavor.
Latte: Milder, creamier, sweeter milk flavor.
Serving Vessel:
Cappuccino: Ceramic cup, often with a handle.
Latte: Tall glass or large ceramic mug.
Temperature:
Cappuccino: Cools slightly faster due to airy foam.
Latte: Stays hotter longer due to more liquid milk.
Milk Steaming: The Technical Heart of the Difference
The real magic—and the barista’s skill—lies in steaming the milk. The technique varies slightly for each drink.
For a cappuccino, you introduce more air (aeration) at the beginning. You’ll hear a distinct tearing or chirping sound as the steam wand pulls air into the milk. This phase is longer, creating more volume and a thicker foam structure. After aerating, you submerge the wand to heat and whirlpool the milk, integrating the bubbles.
For a latte, the aeration phase is much shorter—just a second or two of that tearing sound. The goal isn’t volume, it’s texture. You quickly submerge the wand to create a whirlpool, which shears the bubbles into a microfoam so fine it feels like liquid velvet. The milk should have a shiny, wet-paint look.
Cultural Variations and Common Confusions
Outside of Italy, these definitions can get blurry. In many U.S. coffee shops, a cappuccino might just mean a smaller, foamier latte. Sometimes you’ll get a “dry cappuccino” (extra foam, less milk) or a “wet cappuccino” (more milk, less foam, closer to a latte).
Then there’s the flat white, often confused with both. Originating from Australia/New Zealand, it’s like a smaller, stronger latte. It uses a double ristretto shot and has even less foam than a latte, resulting in an intensely coffee-flavored, velvety drink. It’s usually served in a 5-6 oz cup, similar to a cappuccino but without the foam dome.
Another common point of confusion is the macchiato. A traditional espresso macchiato is just espresso “stained” with a tiny dollop of foam. A latte macchiato is the inverse: steamed milk “stained” by pouring espresso on top, creating layered effect.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your personal preference is the best guide. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you want a strong coffee kick? Choose a cappuccino.
- Do you prefer a creamy, sippable drink? Choose a latte.
- Do you enjoy the tactile feel of foam? Choose a cappuccino.
- Are you adding flavors like vanilla or caramel? A latte is the better base.
- Do you want a quicker, hotter drink? A latte will retain heat better.
- Looking for a morning eye-opener? A cappuccino packs more punch per ounce.
In Italy, cappuccinos are strictly a morning drink, often enjoyed with a pastry. Lattes can be had throughout the day. But there’s no real rule—drink what you like, when you like it.
Tips for Ordering Exactly What You Want
To avoid surprises, use these phrases when you order:
- For a traditional cappuccino: “I’d like a cappuccino with equal parts foam, milk, and espresso.”
- For a stronger, drier cappuccino: “Can I have my cappuccino on the drier side, please?”
- For a smoother, less foamy cappuccino: “I’d prefer a wet cappuccino.”
- For a latte with extra coffee flavor: “Can I get a latte with an extra shot?” or “Make it a strong latte.”
- For a latte with minimal foam: “I’d like a latte with no foam, please.” (Though this removes the classic texture).
Remember, a skilled barista will know these terms. Don’t be afraid to ask how they prepare there drinks if you’re at a new cafe.
FAQs About Lattes and Cappuccinos
Which has more caffeine, a latte or a cappuccino?
If they use the same number of espresso shots, they have identical caffeine content. A standard cappuccino and a standard latte both typically start with one or two shots. Since caffeine comes from the espresso, not the milk, it’s the same. The latte just has more milk diluting it.
Can I make these without an espresso machine?
You can get close! For a strong coffee base, use a Moka pot, AeroPress, or even strongly brewed coffee. For the milk, heat it on the stove or in the microwave, then froth it with a French press (pump the plunger), a handheld frother, or even a whisk. The texture won’t be as perfect, but the general idea is there.
Is a cappuccino just a small latte?
Not really. While a cappuccino is often smaller, the critical difference is the foam-to-milk ratio. A cappuccino has a defined, thick foam layer, while a latte is mostly steamed milk with integrated microfoam. A small latte would still have the texture of a latte, not the foam structure of a cappuccino.
Which one is healthier?
With the same type of milk, a cappuccino is slightly lower in calories because it uses less total milk. However, the difference for a standard whole-milk drink is only about 30-50 calories. Choosing skim or plant-based milk has a much bigger impact on the nutritional profile than choosing between the two drinks.
Why is my homemade foam not as good?
Great foam depends on fresh, cold milk (whole milk works best), a clean steam wand, and proper technique. The most common mistakes are not starting with cold enough milk, aerating for too long or too little, and not creating a good whirlpool to integrate the foam. Practice makes perfect.
Can I get flavored cappuccino?
Absolutely. While purists might prefer them plain, adding a pump of syrup to a cappuccino is very common. Just know that the strong foam can sometimes cause the flavor to sit on top. Stirring it gently is recommended.
Final Sip
The journey from bean to cup creates two distinct personalities. The cappuccino is the espresso’s bold statement, amplified by a cloud of foam. The latte is milk’s gentle embrace, with coffee playing a supporting role. Neither is better—they’re just different.
Next time you’re at a cafe, you can order with confidence. Whether you’re in the mood for the robust, textured experience of a cappuccino or the smooth, comforting sip of a latte, you know exactly what you’re getting. The beauty of coffee lies in these nuances, and now you’re equipped to appreciate them. So go ahead, pick your favorite, and enjoy every last drop.