Step into any cafe or scroll through your favourite food delivery app, and these two coffee drinks show up without fail. Latte and cappuccino sit right next to each other on menus, look similar in pictures, and yet somehow never taste the same when they arrive. One feels smooth and comforting, the other sharp and bold. The confusion usually hits when you order on autopilot and realise, mid-sip, that this wasn't quite the coffee mood you had in mind. Both drinks are espresso-based classics, loved across cafes and homes alike, but the experience they offer is surprisingly different. If you have ever wondered why, this breakdown will finally make your coffee order make sense.
Also Read: How To Turn Classic Butter Chicken Into Irresistible Tacos In 30 Mins
Latte vs Cappuccino: Here's The Difference
1. Origin:
Photo: Unsplash
Latte:
Originated in Italy, where “caffe latte” means “milk coffee.” Traditionally served at breakfast, it became popular globally as a smooth, milk-heavy espresso drink. Modern cafe culture expanded it with flavoured syrups and latte art, making it a staple in speciality coffee shops worldwide.
Cappuccino:
Dates back to 17th-century Italy, named after Capuchin monks because the drink's colour resembled their robes. Originally prepared with equal parts espresso, milk, and foam, it became a morning ritual in Italian culture and later spread internationally as a symbol of classic espresso craftsmanship.
2. Taste
Photo: Unsplash
Latte:
A latte offers a mild, creamy flavour where the espresso plays a subtle, supporting role. The generous amount of steamed milk softens the bitterness, making it smooth and approachable, even for those who aren't fans of strong coffee.
Cappuccino:
A cappuccino delivers a bold, coffee-forward taste. The espresso flavour is sharper and more pronounced, creating a rich and robust experience. If you enjoy savouring the true essence of coffee rather than milk, cappuccino is the clear winner.
3. Texture
Photo: Unsplash
Latte:
The texture of a latte is silky and velvety, thanks to the abundance of steamed milk and minimal foam. It feels heavier and flows smoothly, giving a sense of indulgence in every sip.
Cappuccino
Cappuccino has a lighter, airy mouthfeel because of its thick foam layer. Despite its strong flavour, the foam adds a delicate structure, making it surprisingly easy to drink without feeling dense.
4. Foam Level
Photo: Unsplash
Latte:
Lattes feature only a thin layer of foam on top, primarily for balance and presentation rather than altering the drinking experience.
Cappuccino:
Foam is the defining characteristic of a cappuccino. A thick, dry foam sits on top, helping retain heat and intensifying aroma. This foam also changes how the coffee hits your palate, creating a layered and textured experience.
5. Coffee-to-Milk Ratio
Photo: Unsplash
Latte:
A latte uses significantly more milk than coffee, typically one shot of espresso topped with a generous amount of steamed milk. This ratio creates a mellow, gentle cup that's perfect for those who prefer a softer flavour profile.
Cappuccino:
Cappuccino follows a more balanced ratio of roughly equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. Because there's less liquid milk, the espresso remains strong and undiluted, explaining its bolder taste.
6. How Filling It Feels
Photo: Unsplash
Latte:
Lattes are more filling due to their higher milk content, making them a popular choice for breakfast or as a mid-day drink that feels substantial.
Cappuccino:
Cappuccinos feel lighter because of less milk and more foam, even though they pack a stronger flavour. This makes them ideal after meals or when you want coffee without feeling overly full.
So, Which One Should You Order?
Order a latte if you want something comforting, creamy, and easy to sip over time, especially alongside food. Go for a cappuccino if you're craving a stronger coffee flavour with a lighter feel.
If you are ordering in via your favourite food delivery app, lattes usually travel better, while cappuccinos are best enjoyed fresh when the foam is still intact.
Also Read: How To Make Delicious Ginger Rasam: A One-Pot Recipe For Sore Throat And Cold Days
What To Pair With Latte And Cappuccino
Photo: Unsplash
Here are some food pairings that go well with latte and cappuccino:
Latte:
- Best with savoury breakfast items like avocado toast, omelettes, or sandwiches because its creamy texture complements hearty flavours.
- Works well with sweet pastries such as croissants, muffins, or cinnamon rolls for a balanced taste.
- Ideal for light lunch pairings like salads or wraps since it feels more filling and mellow.
Cappuccino:
- Traditionally paired with plain or lightly sweet pastries like biscotti or a simple butter croissant to let the bold coffee flavour shine.
- Great after meals with small desserts such as tiramisu or dark chocolate for a rich, indulgent finish.
Avoid heavy foods as its lighter body makes it perfect for quick, elegant pairings rather than full meals.
So, now you know what to order whenever you are at a cafe the next time!
Disclosure: This article may contain links to third-party websites or resources. However, this does not affect the integrity of the content, and all recommendations and views are based on our independent research and judgment.