Cappuccino vs. Latte: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Cappuccino is a coffee drink with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk, while Latte has more steamed milk and less foam.
Key Differences
Cappuccino is traditionally composed of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, creating a rich, bold flavor. Latte, on the other hand, emphasizes more steamed milk, which dilutes the espresso for a creamier, milder taste.
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Nov 21, 2023
In a Cappuccino, the significant amount of foam adds a light and airy texture. Lattes have a smoother, silkier texture due to the higher proportion of steamed milk, resulting in a subtler espresso flavor.
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Nov 21, 2023
Cappuccinos are typically served in smaller cups due to their concentrated flavor. Lattes are served in larger cups, accommodating the additional milk, and are generally warmer due to the greater volume of steamed milk.
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Nov 21, 2023
Cappuccino offers a stronger espresso experience, ideal for customizing with flavors or chocolate. Latte, with its milder base, is a popular choice for artful milk designs and flavored syrups.
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Nov 21, 2023
Cappuccino is often associated with Italian breakfast culture, enjoyed in the morning. Lattes have gained widespread popularity in various cultures, often enjoyed throughout the day.
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Nov 21, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Milk Composition
Equal parts steamed and frothed milk
More steamed milk, less froth
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Nov 21, 2023
Flavor Intensity
Stronger, bold espresso flavor
Milder, subdued espresso flavor
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Typical Serving Time
Often consumed in the morning
Enjoyed throughout the day
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Cappuccino and Latte Definitions
Cappuccino
"Cappuccino includes steamed milk."
The cappuccino's steamed milk was perfectly frothy.
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Nov 16, 2023
Latte
"Latte is based on espresso."
The latte's espresso base was rich and flavorful.
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Nov 16, 2023
Cappuccino
"Cappuccino originates from Italian coffee culture."
During our trip to Italy, we enjoyed authentic cappuccinos.
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Nov 16, 2023
Latte
"Latte emphasizes steamed milk."
The barista poured steamed milk into the latte with precision.
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Nov 16, 2023
Cappuccino
"A Cappuccino is an espresso-based coffee drink."
I ordered a cappuccino to start my day.
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Nov 16, 2023
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Latte
"Latte is a popular choice in cafes worldwide."
He noticed lattes were the best-seller at the local cafe.
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Nov 16, 2023
Cappuccino
"Cappuccino is often a morning beverage."
He has a habit of reading the newspaper with his morning cappuccino.
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Nov 16, 2023
Latte
"A Latte is a milk-dominant coffee drink."
She prefers a latte for its smooth, creamy taste.
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Nov 16, 2023
Cappuccino
"Cappuccino is characterized by its thick milk foam."
She admired the milk foam art on her cappuccino.
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Nov 16, 2023
Latte
"Latte is versatile for adding flavors."
She ordered a vanilla latte for a sweet twist.
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Nov 16, 2023
Latte
A drink of coffee made from espresso and steamed milk, generally topped with foam.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cappuccino
(uncountable) An Italian coffee-based beverage made from espresso to which milk that has been steamed and/or frothed is added; (countable) a cup of this beverage.
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Oct 19, 2023
Latte
A similar drink, where the espresso is replaced with some other flavoring ingredient such as chai, maté or matcha (green tea).
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Oct 19, 2023
Latte
Same as cafe latte; a type of espresso coffee served with foamy steamed milk, and usually served in a tall glass or mug.
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Oct 19, 2023
Cappuccino
A medium- to dark-brown colour like that of the coffee drink (sense 1) or the habit of a Capuchin monk.
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Oct 19, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is cappuccino stronger than latte?
Yes, cappuccino typically has a stronger espresso flavor due to less milk.
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Nov 21, 2023
What defines a latte?
A coffee drink with more steamed milk and a light layer of foam, based on espresso.
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Nov 21, 2023
What is a cappuccino?
A coffee drink with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk.
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Nov 21, 2023
Can lattes be flavored?
Yes, lattes are often flavored with syrups or spices.
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Nov 21, 2023
Can cappuccinos be iced?
Yes, though traditionally hot, iced cappuccinos are also popular.
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Nov 21, 2023
What cup size is typical for a cappuccino?
Cappuccinos are typically served in smaller, 6-ounce cups.
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Nov 21, 2023
Is sugar added to cappuccino?
It's optional; traditionally, sugar is added according to taste.
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How much caffeine is in a latte?
It varies but is generally equivalent to one shot of espresso.
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Nov 21, 2023
Are lattes suitable for latte art?
Yes, the smooth steamed milk in lattes is ideal for creating latte art.
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Nov 21, 2023
Can you make a cappuccino with plant-based milk?
Yes, alternative milks like almond or oat milk can be used.
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Nov 21, 2023
Is a latte stronger than regular coffee?
Yes, due to the espresso base, it's typically stronger than drip coffee.
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Nov 21, 2023
Is cappuccino a breakfast drink in Italy?
Yes, in Italy, cappuccino is traditionally a morning drink.
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Nov 21, 2023
Do lattes have less coffee than cappuccinos?
No, both typically contain one shot of espresso, but lattes have more milk.
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Nov 21, 2023
What milk is best for lattes?
Whole milk is often preferred for its creaminess, but any milk can be used.
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Nov 21, 2023
What's the origin of the word 'cappuccino'?
It comes from the Capuchin friars, referencing the color of their robes.
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Nov 21, 2023
Can cappuccinos aid in concentration?
Yes, the caffeine content can help with focus and alertness.
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Nov 21, 2023
Is a cappuccino considered a dessert coffee?
Not traditionally, but it can be enjoyed as a dessert.
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Nov 21, 2023
Are lattes less caloric than cappuccinos?
Generally, no; lattes may have more calories due to the extra milk.
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Nov 21, 2023
What's the best time to drink a latte?
Anytime, though they're popularly enjoyed in the morning or afternoon.
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Nov 21, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.