Coffee Drinks Explained

Updated April 2026Coffee guide

Latte vs Cappuccino vs Macchiato

All espresso drinks, different ratios. Here's what sets them apart.

Espresso-Based Drinks

Espresso: 1-2oz straight shot. No milk.

Americano: Espresso + hot water. Similar strength to drip coffee but different flavor.

Latte: 1-2 shots espresso + 8-12oz steamed milk + thin layer of foam. Milkiest drink. 3:1 milk to espresso.

Cappuccino: Equal parts espresso, steamed milk, milk foam (each about 2oz). Foamier and stronger than latte.

Macchiato: Espresso "marked" with 1-2 tsp milk foam. Smallest amount of milk.

Flat White: Double shot espresso + microfoam milk. Less milk than latte, velvety texture.

Cortado: Equal parts espresso and steamed milk. No foam. 1:1 ratio.

Mocha: Latte + chocolate syrup + whipped cream.

Iced Versions

  • Iced Latte: Espresso + cold milk + ice
  • Iced Americano: Espresso + cold water + ice
  • Cold Brew: NOT espresso. Coffee steeped in cold water 12-24 hours.

Keep Going

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