The difference between a macchiato and a latte is in the amount of milk.
Two espresso drinks based on coffee and steamed milk, the macchiato and the latte, are distinguished primarily by the proportion of milk.
“) although this isn't a requirement. They're usually served in a larger coffee cup, although some countries (like Australia) serve lattes in glasses. What is a macchiato? Also coming from Italian,”
Both macchiatos and lattes are based on espresso with added steamed or frothed milk. The main difference lies in the amount of milk, as lattes typically contain much more. They also come in different sizes and are therefore served in different cups.
In Italian, "latte" means "milk," and that's precisely what's served with this coffee drink. Technically, the Italian drink is called "caffè latte": ordering just a "latte" in Italy might result in being served a glass of milk. In the United States, however, the term refers to a drink made with real coffee.
Generally speaking, a latte combines one-third espresso with two-thirds steamed milk. It typically contains around 240 ml (8 ounces), which is equivalent to a double espresso, since a single espresso contains between 30 and 45 ml (1 and 1.5 ounces). Larger lattes can exceed 295 ml (10 ounces), and the exact proportions vary depending on the volume of coffee in each espresso.
It has a thin layer of foam about 0.5 centimeters (one-fifth of an inch) thick, less than a cappuccino, which has one centimeter. The barista can pour the foam to create shapes, such as a heart, known as "latte art." It is usually served in a large coffee cup, although in countries like Australia it is served in glasses.
The macchiato, also of Italian origin, means something like "stained." It's one or two shots of espresso with a splash of steamed milk or foam, resulting in a much more intense coffee flavor than a latte. The exact amount of milk is a matter of debate: some sources suggest just a tablespoon of foam, while others recommend two parts coffee to one part milk. As a small drink, it's served in an espresso cup.
The term has become more complex. The latte macchiato reverses the formula: hot milk "tinted" with a shot of espresso, in a ratio of approximately 3 to 1, so it's more like a latte or a cappuccino. Starbucks versions, with flavors like apple crumble or caramel, have a lot of milk and are "tinted" with espresso, but with additional syrups, which is why some baristas consider them more like desserts.
Since the meaning of the term has changed, if it's not clear what a "macchiato" is on a cafe menu, it's best to ask before ordering.
