Most Coffee shops these days have all sorts of coffee drinks on their menu with really fancy names. One of them is ‘Macchiato’.
If you have seen this on a Coffee shop menu and thought to yourself is this some sweet beverage or a coffee?
Keep on reading to find out everything you need to know about Macchiato, its origin, how you can make this delicious coffee at home, and more!
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.
With time, famous coffee joints have come with different variations of this traditional coffee beverage. One very famous invention was the caramel macchiato. That is steamed milk served with a little espresso and caramel syrup.
In Australia, you can order a long macchiato, which is two espresso shots with a splash of milk. So the definition of Macchiato varies from coffee shop to country.
Origin Of Macchiato
Macchiato was likely first created in Italy. It is said that the reason the famous coffee beverage was named ‘Macchiato’ was because the baristas wanted a clear distinction between the classic espresso and the one with a little milk.
The beverage became popular in Italy as an afternoon drink, because Italians do not enjoy cappuccino after breakfast time as they consider the diary to be too rich to be had during the day.
The day is defined by coffee rituals: a cappuccino with breakfast, a caffè macchiato – or two – as an afternoon pick-me-up, and espresso after dinner. – Eataly Magazine
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 can 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 that creates two different layers and creates a gradient-like effect in the center. Finally, topped with a layer of foam on top.
How To Make Macchiato? Step-by-Step Process
As we discussed, making a macchiato is really simple and only involves a few steps. Let’s take a look at what you will need to make this indulgent coffee.
What You’ll Need
- 2 espresso shots
- ¼ cup Milk (2 oz)
The Process
1. Make Espresso
Grind your coffee beans finely, and use an Espresso machine to pull 2 shots of espresso.
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. Steam the Milk
The next part of the recipe involves steaming the milk. If your espresso machine has a steaming wand use that or else you can also use an Electric Milk Frother.
Here is our recommendation of the best Milk frothers for home use!
3. Combine and Enjoy!
Add espresso shots to your coffee glass or mug and add a dash of steamed milk just to mark or stain it with milk.
There you have Macchiato at home in a few easy steps. Enjoy the Italian beverage and do not forget to appreciate the strong aroma and flavor of the coffee.
Final Thoughts
Between espresso and latte macchiato we think espresso macchiato is really easy to make and it also reflects the true authenticity of the coffee drink.
If you have the right equipment available at home, then definitely give it a try!
How to Make a Macchiato?
Ingredients
- 2 shots Espresso
- 1/4 cup Milk (2oz)
Instructions
- Grind your espresso beand and pull 2 shots of espresso from your espresso machine.
- Steam milk using a steaming wand or Milk Frother
- Add espresso shots to your coffee glass or mug and add a dash of steamed milk just to mark or stain it with milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Macchiato is pronounced as ‘maa-kee-aa-toh’
Yes, you can Make Macchiato cold. This can be done by frothing cold milk instead of using steamed milk.
