Do you love different coffee? Are you torn between a latte vs. cappuccino? Both espresso-based drinks are similar, but there is a difference between a cappuccino and a latte. So, let’s discuss a latte vs. cappuccino and the specific answers to “What is a cappuccino?” and “What is a latte?”
Cortado Coffee: An Espresso-Based Drink
Cortado coffee is trendy in Portugal and Latin America. The name comes from the verb in Spanish, “cortar,” which means “to cut.” The cortado is an espresso-based drink similar to a latte, whereas a cappuccino has less milk. It is made with espresso and steamed milk. There is a sweeter version of the cortado called “cortadito,” which is popular in Latin America. The cortado is often served in a small glass, called a Gibraltar, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a strong yet balanced espresso drink.
What Is the Difference Between a Cappuccino and a Latte?
The main difference between a cappuccino and a latte is that a standard cappuccino has evenly distributed espresso, foamed milk, and steamed milk. A latte has a light layer of foam and more steamed milk. In addition, a cappuccino has more distinct layers, whereas a latte has the existing espresso and steamed milk mixed. If you like strong coffee, you would like a cappuccino. If you want a little milkier coffee, you would like a latte vs. a cappuccino or cortado. With lattes, you can also use different flavors or milk to spice up your drink.
What Is a Cappuccino?
Now, let’s dive deeper into the answer to, “What is a cappuccino?” and how it is made! A cappuccino is an espresso-based beverage that begins with a shot of espresso. It is then topped with equal parts steamed and foamed milk, resulting in a creamy and frothy texture. Unlike a latte, a cappuccino is not completed with a light layer of foam but rather a thicker layer. This gives the cappuccino a unique and fluffy texture. There are many variations of the cappuccino. For example, in Italy, sometimes cappuccinos will have chocolate syrup or powder on top. There is also something called a “dry cappuccino.” This is a cappuccino with only foam and no hot milk.
You can make a cappuccino by starting with cold milk from the fridge. Next, you will take a steam wand and heat the cold milk. This process is called aeration. Aeration is the process of putting air into the milk. It is essential to get in as much air as possible. Otherwise, it can become stiffer. Once your silky, steamed milk is ready, pour it into an espresso shot until your cup is filled. Use a spoon to scoop less foam on top of your drink, just like a traditional cappuccino.
What Is the Origin of Lattes vs. Cappuccinos?
William Dean Howells was the first to use the terms “caffe” and “latte” in 1847. The word “latte” means “milk” in Italian, and the caffe version is an American invention. The caffe latte originated in Berkeley, California, and was called “caffe mediterraneum.” A barista started a cappuccino and added milk, resulting in the “caffe latte.”
A patented espresso machine was first introduced by Luigi Bezzera of Milan, Italy, in 1901. This led to the introduction of cappuccinos to local people in Italy everywhere. In Italy, cappuccinos are known as “cappuccini.” The word “cappuccino” comes from the Italian word “capuchin.” At the time of its invention, espresso machines were complicated to use, so they were only used by baristas or “baristis”. Italians have a unique coffee culture involving sitting in cafes for hours, enjoying espresso, cappuccinos, cafe lattes, and other drinks with conversations and reading. The cappuccino was introduced in America in the 1980s.
What Is a Latte?
In a deeper answer to, “What is a latte?”, a latte is created by mixing coffee with milk. The milk is usually steamed, and there is typically a layer of foam on top. Another similar drink is called the macchiato, which traditionally only uses foamed milk and has the espresso poured on top. A latte is traditionally made with one espresso shot for standard sizes but can also be made with two for larger sizes. The cup is then topped with steamed milk and milk foam. Baristas will sometimes pour the milk foam in a pretty pattern on top. This is known as “latte art.” Caffe lattes can be made with flavors such as vanilla, cinnamon, and mocha, among others. There are also so many different kinds of milk, such as whole milk, 2% milk, or nonfat milk. If you prefer non-dairy, you can also use oat, almond, soy or coconut milk.
For the summer months, you may choose an iced latte. It is said that the iced latte was invented in the United States.
Coffee Bean Recommendations
If you love lattes, we have exactly what you need to enjoy a quality latte anytime. Enjoy grinding up our whole bean coffees, such as Ethiopian Sidama or Honduras Saint Lucia. These are both for sale online. You can bet you’ll get the best quality coffee to make lattes or cappuccinos from the comfort of your home! If you don’t have time to make one at home, look at our menu and visit a Command Coffee location in Indianapolis near you for a warm cappuccino or latte.
Whether you choose a latte vs. cappuccino or an excellent cortado, these espresso-based drinks can be enjoyed with various flavors, ranging from mocha to vanilla. You can also choose between different kinds of milk, from whole milk to almond milk. No matter which one you choose, you can’t go wrong with either of these delicious beverages.