As long as coffee has been a drink, there has been a debate among coffee drinkers about latte and cappuccino. While lattes and cappuccinos are espresso-based drinks with milk, they have different textures, tastes, and presentations.
Understanding latte vs cappuccino will help you decide what you want to sip for the perfect cup based on preference. A solid understanding of Cappuccino vs Latte can improve your coffee experience, whether you’re brewing coffee at home or ordering out.
If you’ve had any questions about latte or cappuccino, here are the methods for making each drink, the flavour, and the characteristics of each drink. This article will highlight the difference between a latte and a cappuccino. Let’s compare them.
Comparison Between Cappuccinos vs Lattes
Cappuccinos vs lattes have a special place in the coffee culture. Choosing between a cappuccino and a latte is a matter of personal preference, as there is no significant comparison to determine which drink is “better.”
| Elements | Cappuccino | Latte |
| Origin of Drink | First appeared in Northern Italy in the 1930s | The term was first used in English in an 1867 essay, “Italian Journeys”; it was redefined with the evolution of espresso and milk-steaming technology |
| Ingredients and Ratios | 1 Part Espresso, 1 Part Steamed Milk, 1 Part Milk Foam | 1 Part Espresso, 3 Parts Steamed Milk, Dollop of Milk Foam |
| Milk Texture | Thick, frothy foam, creating a rich and creamy texture | Greater volume of smooth, steamed milk with a thin layer of foam for a velvety finish |
| Preparation | Milk is frothed to create more foam, then poured over the espresso | Milk is steamed but not overly frothed, then mixed with the espresso, with a small amount of foam spooned on top |
| Serving Size/Style | Usually served in smaller cups (150-180 ml) | Usually served in larger glasses (240-300 ml) |
| Calories | Approx. 80-120 | Approx. 130-170 |
| Taste Profile | Strong espresso flavour offering a balanced blend of bitterness, sweetness, and milkiness | Milkier and creamier, with the espresso serving as a flavourful undertone rather than the star of the show |
Main Difference Between Latte and Cappuccino
While cappuccino and lattes may share some common items, let’s also be clear that they are not the same coffee drink. The main difference is how much milk is in each drink and how the milk is being made (e.g., steamed vs. frothed milk). Cappuccinos are generally larger, creamier, and have more milk than lattes, which is supposed to be a stronger coffee drink due to cappuccinos’ frothy texture.
While both drinks have espresso shots, their relative milk ratios and texture of the milk will be different; here is a latte vs cappuccino difference below:
Cappuccino:
– 1 part espresso
– 1 part steamed milk
– 1 part frothed milk
This will produce a drink with a balanced taste of strong espresso, creaminess, and frothiness in every sip.
Latte:
– 1 part espresso
– 3 parts steamed milk
– and a thin layer of foam on the top
Drink softer, creamier, and easier to enjoy.
Milk Texture
Key differences in foaming texture type will significantly affect the end result and overall cup quality.
- Cappuccino: It is frothy and airy. The thick foam simply floats on the surface of the coffee, providing a light, creamy mouthfeel.
- Latte: Smooth and velvety. The steamed milk is poured directly into the espresso shot, and a thin foam on top brings a slight, airy texture.
Preparation
- Cappuccino: An espresso shot is poured, and the layer of steamed milk follows. A layer of frothed milk is created by continuing to aerate it after it reaches 140°F, leaving the steamed milk layer without a thick layer of froth.
- Latte: An espresso shot and steamed milk will pour directly into the large cup; latte art foam can only be put on top for texture.
Serving Size and Style
Cappuccinos are served in small cups (150-180 mL) as less milk ensures the perfect balance of flavours. On the other hand, lattes have even more milk and are served in larger glasses (240-300 mL).
Calories
When we compare Latte vs cappuccino calories, a cappuccino has fewer calories (around 80-120) while a latte normally has more calories (about 130-170). This is due to the lactose in the milk. You can substitute non-fat milk or alternative milks to reduce the number of calories in either drink, depending on your preference.
Flavour
- Cappuccino: Strong, robust, and well-balanced. The milk cuts bitter notes, but not entirely.
- Latte: It is milder and creamier with less intensity; the coffee taste is still present without being overwhelmed by the milk.
Nutritional value: Latte vs Cappuccino
Cappuccinos and lattes all contain milk and foam. Still, their nutritional value can vary significantly depending on the milk used and whether or not sugar or other sweeteners are added.
- Lattes have the most milk, so you’ll likely have more calories, fat, and protein.
- Cappuccinos have a little less milk, but still have a decent amount of calories, protein, and fat.
Here is the nutritional value between a latte and a Cappuccino.
| Type of Drink | Calories | Protein | Total Fat | Carbs |
| 16-ounce (475-ml) Latte | 206 | 13 grams | 8 grams | 20.5 grams |
| 16-ounce (475-ml) Cappuccino | 130 | 8 grams | 5 grams | 13 grams |
Which is Healthier, a Cappuccino vs Latte?
Cappuccinos are generally healthier than lattes because they contain fewer calories and fat due to the lower milk content. Nonetheless, other factors influence the number of calories in your drink, including the type of milk used and whether you add any additional tastes or sweets. Fortunately, both drinks can be considered part of a balanced diet.
The next time you decide which to order, consider whether you prefer the stronger espresso flavour of a cappuccino or the smoother and somewhat sweeter flavour of a latte.
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