Quick Answers
The main differences between a Nespresso macchiato and latte are:
- A macchiato is made with more espresso and less milk than a latte.
- A latte contains much more steamed milk than a macchiato.
- A macchiato has a strong, concentrated espresso taste while a latte is milder.
- Traditionally, a macchiato has a small amount of foam on top while a latte has no foam or just a little.
- A macchiato is usually served in a small cup or glass while a latte is served in a tall glass.
What is a Macchiato?
A macchiato is an espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Italy. The name “macchiato” comes from the Italian word “macchiare” which means “to stain.” This refers to how the steamed milk in a macchiato “stains” the espresso with its color.
A traditional macchiato is made by pouring a small amount of foamed milk into a shot of espresso. This results in two distinct layers – the dark brown crema of the espresso on the bottom and the light, foamy milk on top. Some coffee shops will finish off a macchiato with a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon powder.
With Nespresso, a macchiato is made using one of their stronger, bolder espresso capsules as the base. A small amount of hot or steamed milk is then poured over the shot of espresso. The milk to coffee ratio is much lower than other espresso drinks, usually around 1:4. This highlights the intense espresso flavor while the milk softens its bitterness.
Some of the most well-liked Nespresso capsules for making macchiatos include Roma, Ristretto, Arpeggio, and Kazaar. These help create a thick crema layer and strong espresso taste.
Key Features of a Macchiato:
- Primarily espresso-based
- Less milk than most espresso drinks
- Milk to coffee ratio around 1:4
- Strong, bold espresso flavor
- May have a small layer of foam on top
- Served in a small cup or glass
What is a Latte?
A latte is an espresso-based drink made by combining steamed milk with espresso. “Latte” means “milk” in Italian. Lattes contain much more milk compared to other espresso drinks like cappuccinos or macchiatos.
To make a latte with Nespresso, start with an espresso shot made from one of their capsules. Some popular options are Volluto, Ciocattino, and Vanilio. Then add steamed milk, holding back the foam. The ideal milk to coffee ratio is around 4:1 for a latte.
The espresso is diluted by the large amount of milk, giving a latte a sweeter, milky taste compared to the strong espresso flavor of a macchiato. Lattes are also creamier in texture than macchiatos due to the steamed milk and microfoam incorporated.
Key Features of a Latte:
- Espresso combined with steamed milk
- Higher milk to coffee ratio around 4:1
- Sweeter, milder taste
- Creamy, smooth texture
- Little to no foam on top
- Served in a tall glass
Detailed Comparison of Macchiatos and Lattes
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into a more detailed comparison between macchiatos and lattes made with Nespresso pods.
Espresso Base
The espresso capsules used to make macchiatos versus lattes can vary:
| Macchiato | Latte |
|---|---|
| Roma | Volluto |
| Ristretto | Ciocattino |
| Arpeggio | Vanilio |
| Kazaar | Decaffeinato Intenso |
For macchiatos, you want an intense espresso capsule that will hold up against the milk. Nespresso’s Roma, Ristretto, Arpeggio, and Kazaar deliver bold, robust flavors perfect for macchiatos.
Lattes pair best with more balanced, aromatic capsules like Volluto, Ciocattino, and Vanilio. Their fruit, nut, and chocolate notes shine through the steamed milk.
Milk Amount
The milk quantity differs significantly between these two drinks:
- Macchiato: 1-2 oz milk
- Latte: 10-12 oz milk
A macchiato contains just a splash of milk – enough to soften the espresso and provide a touch of contrasting flavor. Too much milk would overwhelm the coffee.
With a latte, milk makes up the majority of the drink. The large volume results in a milky, creamy coffee rather than a strong espresso.
Milk Texture
The way the milk is prepared also differs:
- Macchiato: Steamed milk and microfoam
- Latte: Steamed milk only, holding back the foam
For a macchiato, the milk is steamed to incorporate microfoam. This light, bubbly foam allows the milk to float gently on top of the espresso shot. It also contributes to the macchiato’s signature appearance.
Lattes are made with just steamed milk, without excess foam. This creates a silky texture that blends smoothly with the espresso.
Foam
Traditionally, macchiatos and lattes are topped off differently:
- Macchiato: A dollop of foam on top
- Latte: No foam or just a thin layer
With a macchiato, the microfoam from the steamed milk rises to the top, creating a signature foamy crown. This thin layer of bubbles provides contrast to the dark espresso underneath.
For lattes, the foam is folded into the steamed milk, leaving little to no foam on the surface. This results in a homogeneous beverage without separation between milk and coffee.
Taste
In terms of flavor, macchiatos and lattes are at opposite ends of the spectrum:
- Macchiato: Strong espresso taste
- Latte: Mild, sweet flavor
A macchiato is meant to highlight the bold, intense flavor of espresso. The small amount of milk provides just enough sweetness to balance out the coffee’s bitterness.
With a much higher milk content, lattes end up with a milder, sweeter taste. The espresso adds subtle coffee undertones without overpowering the milk.
Serving Size
You’ll receive different serving sizes when ordering these drinks:
- Macchiato: 1-2 oz drink in small cup or glass
- Latte: 8-12 oz drink in tall glass
A macchiato is a shot-sized drink, serving just a few sips in a small cup or shot glass. This keeps the espresso from getting cold and diluted too quickly.
Lattes are served in much larger cups and glasses. Their 8-12 oz size allows for leisurely sipping of the creamy, comforting beverage.
Caffeine Content
Given the differences in espresso and milk amounts, macchiatos and lattes also vary in their caffeine content:
- Macchiato: Around 77mg caffeine
- Latte: Around 71mg caffeine
Despite being a smaller drink, a macchiato actually packs more of a caffeine punch. With just one or two ounces of milk against a full shot of espresso, it has very little dilution.
Lattes have less caffeine given their lower coffee to milk ratio. The espresso shot becomes diluted by the large amount of steamed milk.
How to Order at Nespresso
When ordering either drink, keep the following tips in mind:
- Choose your espresso capsule first based on your taste preferences
- For macchiatos, opt for an intense, robust capsule
- For lattes, choose a more subtle, aromatic capsule
- Specify hot or cold milk
- For macchiatos, request the milk to be steamed with microfoam
- For lattes, ask for steamed milk without excess foam
- Select your cup size – a small glass for macchiatos or large mug for lattes
- Customize with syrups, spices, or toppings if desired
With just a few modifications, you can tailor your Nespresso macchiato or latte to your personal preferences. But in general, opting for the right espresso capsule and milk preparation will ensure your drink hits the spot!
FAQs
Which has more caffeine – a Nespresso macchiato or latte?
A Nespresso macchiato contains more caffeine than a latte. With just 1-2 oz of milk against a full espresso shot, a macchiato clock in around 77mg of caffeine. Lattes have more milk dilution, so they contain around 71mg caffeine.
Should you use foamed or steamed milk for Nespresso lattes?
Nespresso lattes are best made with steamed milk without excess foam. Foam alters the flavor and texture. For a creamy latte, steam the milk while holding back the froth. Then combine it with your espresso shot.
What’s the difference between a Nespresso cappuccino and latte?
The main difference is foam – cappuccinos have much more. Caps are made with 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foam while lattes contain mostly steamed milk and little to no foam. Lattes also use more milk overall than cappuccinos.
Should you use a Lungo capsule for lattes?
No, Lungo capsules are not ideal for lattes. Lungos produce a larger 2 oz shot, which would throw off the flavor balance. Stick to regular 1 oz espresso capsules for a proper latte taste and texture.
Can you make a macchiato without an espresso machine?
Yes, you can make a simple stovetop macchiato without an espresso machine. Add instant espresso powder or strongly brewed coffee to a cup. Heat milk, then froth it with a small whisk or milk frother. Spoon foam over the coffee to finish.
Conclusion
While both tasty espresso-based drinks, macchiatos and lattes deliver very different experiences. Macchiatos highlight bold, intense espresso flavor with just a splash of milk. Lattes go for a milder, creamier taste with lots of steamed milk. Keep these profiles in mind when choosing your Nespresso capsules and milk preparations.
Experiment with the coffee and milk ratios to find your perfect balance. And whether you prefer your espresso “stained” with a dollop of foam or blended into subtly sweet creaminess, Nespresso has you covered!