Shaken espressos and lattes are two popular coffee drinks that many people enjoy. While they may seem quite similar at first glance, there are some key differences between these two espresso-based beverages. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how shaken espressos and lattes are made, what ingredients they contain, how they taste, and the main distinctions between the two drinks. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado looking to expand your knowledge or simply hoping to decide which drink to order on your next coffee run, read on to learn all about the similarities and differences between shaken espressos and lattes.
What is a Shaken Espresso?
A shaken espresso, sometimes called an espresso shake, is an espresso-based drink that contains espresso and ice cubes shaken vigorously together in a cocktail shaker. The drink originated in Australia and New Zealand in the early 2000s before growing in popularity and spreading to specialty coffee shops around the world.
To make a shaken espresso, typically a double shot of espresso is first brewed. The hot espresso is then combined with several ice cubes in a cocktail shaker and shaken vigorously for 10-20 seconds. This rapid shaking motion churns the ingredients together,leading to a frothy, foamy texture. Once shaken, the espresso is poured into a glass and served.
In its most basic form, a shaken espresso contains just espresso and ice. However, many coffee shops offer customized shaken espressos with added flavorings, sweeteners, and toppings:
– Flavorings: Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, chocolate, cinnamon, etc.
– Sweeteners: White sugar, brown sugar, honey, simple syrup
– Toppings: Milk foam, whipped cream, cocoa powder
The resulting beverage is dark brown in color, with a frothy, foamy head. It has a strong espresso flavor balanced by a light, creamy texture from the shaken blending of espresso and ice. Since no steamed milk is added, the mouthfeel is lighter than a traditional latte. The ice chilling gives the espresso a refreshing, cooling effect. Overall, a shaken espresso offers robust espresso flavor in a drink that is lighter than many milk-based espresso beverages.
Shaken Espresso Ingredients
– Espresso: Typically a double shot, made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans
– Ice: Usually 2-4 cubes
– Flavorings (optional): Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, chocolate, cinnamon, etc.
– Sweeteners (optional): White sugar, brown sugar, honey, simple syrup
– Toppings (optional): Milk foam, whipped cream, cocoa powder
Shaken Espresso Equipment
To make a shaken espresso at home, you’ll need:
– Espresso machine or stovetop moka pot to brew espresso
– Cocktail shaker
– Glass or cup to serve drink
Many coffee shops use commercial-grade espresso machines and metal shakers to prepare shaken espressos.
What is a Latte?
A latte is an espresso-based coffee drink that originated in Italy. The key ingredients in a traditional latte are espresso and steamed milk.
To make a latte, espresso is first brewed using an espresso machine. Fresh milk is then steamed using the espresso machine’s steam wand until hot and frothy. The espresso is poured into the bottom of a glass or cup, then topped off with the hot foamed milk. This creates two distinct layers – the dark espresso on the bottom and lighter, frothy milk on top.
While the standard latte contains just espresso and milk, custom flavor variations are popular:
– Flavored syrups: Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, chocolate, cinnamon
– Alternative milks: Non-dairy milks like oat, soy, almond, coconut
– Sweeteners: White sugar, brown sugar
Latte art is also commonly poured on top of the foamed milk layer, creating decorative designs from the steamed milk’s texture. Common latte art patterns include rosettas, hearts, and ferns.
The end result is a smooth, creamy coffee drink with layers of espresso and foamed milk. Lattes have a richer, milkier mouthfeel compared to shaken espressos thanks to the addition of steamed milk. The milk also lends a touch of sweetness that balances the espresso’s bitterness.
Latte Ingredients
– Espresso: Typically a double shot
– Steamed milk: 2-3 oz steamed milk tops each shot of espresso
– Flavored syrups (optional): Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, chocolate, cinnamon
– Alternative milk (optional): Non-dairy milks like oat, soy, almond, coconut
– Sweeteners (optional): White sugar, brown sugar
– Latte art (optional): Decorative foamed milk patterns
Latte Equipment
To make a latte at home, you’ll need:
– Espresso machine or stovetop Moka pot
– Milk frothing pitcher
– Milk steamer/frother or steam wand
– Spoon for latte art (optional)
Pro baristas use high-end espresso machines with steam wands to craft lattes. But you can mimic the process with basic home equipment.
Shaken Espresso vs. Latte: Key Differences
Now that we’ve covered the basics of how each drink is made, let’s compare some of the main differences between shaken espressos and lattes:
Preparation Method
– Shaken espresso: Espresso is shaken vigorously with ice cubes in a cocktail shaker before serving.
– Latte: Espresso is topped with steamed, foamy milk before serving. No ice shaking is involved.
Main Ingredients
– Shaken espresso: Espresso and ice are the two core ingredients. Milk/milk foam is not used.
– Latte: Espresso and steamed milk are the two main ingredients. No ice is added.
Texture
– Shaken espresso: Frothy and foamy from the ice shaking, but lighter in body than a latte.
– Latte: Creamy, smooth, and silky in texture from the steamed milk. Has a richer mouthfeel.
Flavor
– Shaken espresso: Strong, concentrated espresso flavor. May taste slightly diluted from ice cubes. Milk does not add sweetness.
– Latte: Well-rounded flavor profile with espresso complemented by the natural sweetness of steamed milk.
Temperature
– Shaken espresso: Chilled drink from shaken ice cubes.
– Latte: Hot beverage from piping hot espresso topped with steamed milk.
Caffeine Content
The caffeine content can vary based on specific serving sizes, but generally:
– Shaken espresso: Slightly less caffeine than a latte, since some caffeine is diluted by the ice cubes.
– Latte: More caffeine than a shaken espresso due to the additional shot of espresso typically added.
Customization
– Shaken espressos tend to be customized more with syrups, sweeteners, and toppings like whipped cream.
– Lattes can be customized, but are often enjoyed plain to savor the espresso and milk flavors. Latte art is a popular topping.
Price
– Shaken espressos are typically cheaper than lattes at coffee shops since they use less milk.
– Lattes are more labor intensive to make, so they tend to cost slightly more.
| Factor | Shaken Espresso | Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation Method | Espresso shaken with ice cubes | Espresso topped with steamed milk |
| Main Ingredients | Espresso, ice | Espresso, steamed milk |
| Texture | Frothy, foamy | Creamy, silky |
| Flavor | Strong espresso | Espresso and sweet steamed milk |
| Temperature | Chilled | Hot |
| Caffeine Content | Slightly less than latte | More than shaken espresso |
| Customizations | Commonly added | Less commonly added |
| Price | Typically cheaper | Typically more expensive |
As shown in this comparison, while both contain espresso, shaken espressos and lattes differ significantly in their ingredients, preparation method, texture, flavor, temperature, and cost. When deciding between the two drinks, consider whether you prefer chilled or hot, roasted espresso or sweetened milk flavors, and how much customization you want.
How to Order at a Coffee Shop
Now that you understand the key characteristics of each drink, here are some tips for ordering a shaken espresso or latte at your local coffee shop:
Ordering a Shaken Espresso
– Specify size: 8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz or larger
– Request single or double shot
– Choose regular or iced
– Select any additional flavors, sweeteners, milk foam, or toppings
– Sample flavors: Vanilla shaken espresso, caramel shaken espresso, honey cinnamon shaken espresso
Example order: “I’ll take a 12 ounce double shot shaken espresso, iced, with vanilla syrup and oat milk foam.”
Ordering a Latte
– Specify size: 8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz or larger
– Request single or double shot
– Select steamed milk type: dairy, non-dairy, skim, whole, etc.
– Choose any additional flavors or sweeteners
– Ask for latte art or no latte art
– Sample flavors: Vanilla latte, caramel latte, hazelnut latte
Example order: “Can I get a 16 ounce, non-fat, vanilla latte with latte art?”
How to Make Shaken Espressos and Lattes at Home
Don’t want to head to a coffee shop? You can mimic both drinks at home with some simple equipment.
Shaken Espresso
Brew espresso using a moka pot, espresso machine, or by filtering finely ground coffee. Pour espresso over ice cubes in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously until frothy, about 15-20 seconds. Pour into a glass and top with milk foam or whipped cream if desired.
Latte
Brew espresso, then steam or heat milk of your choice. Pour espresso into a cup, then gently spoon steamed milk over top. Use a spoon to create basic latte art like hearts or flowers. Top with cinnamon or cocoa powder if desired.
The homemade versions might not be quite as perfect as what a trained barista can craft, but they’ll allow you to enjoy these espresso drinks from the comfort of your kitchen.
Pro Tips for Enjoying Shaken Espressos and Lattes
Here are some suggestions from coffee experts for savoring these delicious espresso beverages:
– Drink shaken espressos immediately before they become watered down from the ice.
– Sip lattes slowly to enjoy the contrast of espresso and foamed milk.
– Order espresso shots at your preferred strength – ristretto, normale, or lungo.
– Choose the milk that best suits your taste – dairy, non-dairy, skim, 2%, whole, etc.
– Skip added syrups and sweeteners to appreciate the natural flavors.
– Make sure espresso is freshly ground and prepared for optimal flavor.
– Store beans and grind before brewing to maximize freshness.
– Customize with your favorite flavors – the possibilities are endless!
– Substitute cold brew or iced coffee if you don’t have an espresso machine.
– Top with a dash of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or nutmeg.
– Enjoy alongside a pastry, breakfast, or dessert for an ideal treat.
The Final Sip
Shaken espressos and lattes are two delightful coffee drinks that allow you to enjoy creamy, concentrated espresso flavor on its own or complemented by sweet steamed milk. Both drinks have passionate fans – those who love the strong espresso taste of a shaken espresso versus people who adore a latte’s perfectly balanced layers. While the best choice comes down to individual taste preferences, understanding the ingredients, preparation methods, and customization options allows you to make the most informed decision on your next coffee shop visit. So try out both drinks, try making them yourself, and find your new go-to espresso beverage.