How to Make Latte Macchiato?

If you are a coffee lover, you have probably heard of the term ‘Macchiato’. The espresso-dominated beverage is loved and enjoyed by coffee lovers all over the world.

The original version of Macchiato is called ‘Cafe Macchiato’, ‘Latte Macchiato’ is an even fancier version of the traditional Macchiato, and is a favorite coffee beverage to many. 

If you’re a beginner and have no clue as to what these drinks are, and how are they made. Keep on reading, because we will be talking about all of that in detail.

What is a Macchiato?

Macchiato is an espresso-dominated beverage. Therefore, a good choice for someone who enjoys a stronger and bolder coffee flavor.

The word ‘Macchiato’ means ‘spotted’ in Italian. In Portugal, it is referred to as “Cafe pingado” or “coffee with a drop”. This is because of the way the drink is served by the baristas. 

A dollop of steamed milk is poured over an espresso shot making it look like a ‘mark’ or a ‘stain’. Macchiato is traditionally served in a smaller espresso cup around 2-3oz.

[Also Read: Can You Add Sugar To Milk Before Steaming]

What Are The Different Types Of Macchiato?

Apart from all the new age variations that the coffee joints are coming up with, the traditional Macchiato has two variations – Espresso Macchiato and  Latte Macchiato.

Espresso Macchiato also known as caffé Macchiato in Italy. It is the classic beverage from which the term and the coffee itself was Introduced.

To make this drink, the Barista adds a teaspoon or two of steamed milk in a shot of espresso. The Milk forms a stain or mark in the center of the cup.

Espresso Macchiato is usually served in smaller cup sizes. It can be served in a ceramic or a glass cup.

Latte Macchiato follows the same concept that is being stained or marked. But, in the case of a latte, steamed milk is marked with a shot of espresso.

In comparison to espresso macchiato, latte macchiato is a completely different drink. It has more steamed milk than espresso. This changed the entire taste and flavor of the beverage.

To make a Latte Macchiato, steamed milk is poured partially in a tall glass, preferably one made with glass so you could see the different layers of coffee and milk.

After that, a shot of espresso is poured slowly on top of the steamed in a way so it creates two different layers and creates a gradient-like effect in the center. Finally, topped with a layer of foam on top.

Want to know if you can add coffee creamer instead of espresso? Find out here!

How To Make A Latte Macchiato? (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Latte Macchiato is the easiest yet fanciest coffee recipe you can make at home! Plus it tastes, delicious. 

If you do not enjoy a very strong flavor of coffee then, this is perfect for you, since the steamed milk really lightens up the coffee flavor. Let’s get into the recipe.

Ingredients

• ½ cup of Milk
• 1 shot of Espresso

The Process

1. Make Espresso

The first step is to, grind your coffee beans finely, and use an espresso machine to pull a shot of espresso. You can also add 2 shots of espresso if you prefer a stronger coffee.

2. Froth Milk

The next step is to froth milk. If you’re using a professional espresso machine with a steaming wand, you can use that. If not it is advisable to use a good quality milk frother.

Frothing Milk is the most important step when making Macchiato. When milk is steamed and frothed, it increases the natural sweetness of the milk and gives you a very light and airy texture the one you will find at coffee shops.

If you want to select a Milk Frother for yourself, here is a list of 10 Best Milk Frothers for Coffee!

3. Add Milk

Here comes the fun part, when your milk and espresso are prepared. Take a tall or short glass, whatever you prefer, and pour your frothed milk. Keep aside a spoonful of foam, you will need that when creating that beautiful gradient-like effect.

The key here is to let the frothed milk sit in your glass or cup for around 30 to 60 seconds until you see a clear separation between the foam and milk. 

4. Add Espresso

The final step is what would make or break the look of this beautiful and delicious beverage. Take your espresso shot and pour it slowly from the side of the glass.

Doing this would form a layer of coffee over your foamed milk.

5. Final Steps

When this is done, the final step is to take the leftover foam that we kept aside earlier and add it on top of your milk. So, it looks like there is another thin layer of milk foam on top.

That is it, this is how you prepare Latte Macchiato at home in a few simple steps!

[Also Read: Iced Caramel Macchiato Recipe]

Tips For Success

1. It is important to use a professional espresso machine for this recipe as macchiato is an espresso-dominated drink. So to ensure that the flavor of coffee is correct and strong it is advisable to use a professional espresso machine.

2. Using a good quality Milk Frother is essential to this recipe, because if you are not using properly frothed milk, the different layers would not be created.

If however, you do not own a Milk Frother and want to create foamy milk at home without any special equipment, Read our article on 9 Ways to froth milk without a milk frother.

3. Apart from making the traditional latte macchiato, you can also choose to add additional flavorings like caramel, vanilla, etc.

Check out our Guide on the 10 Best Flavored Syrups for Coffee.

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Final Thoughts

An Italy-based drink, Macchiato is loved and enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts all over the world. 

Latte Macchiato is one recipe that you should definitely try to experience the rich flavor of coffee with light and creamy milk. Happy Caffeinating!