This duo has long been a favorite among millions of people around the world. Macchiato, flat white, cappuccino or latte – everyone has their favorite. Their mild flavor, delicate texture and aromatic base make them special.
However, despite its popularity, many people don’t understand the difference between a latte and a cappuccino, and therefore simply add ingredients at home by eye. The ability to distinguish between drinks is very useful because it helps you better navigate the menu when choosing a drink to your liking, and allows you to understand why one option is suitable for breakfast and the other for a conversation with a friend.
Origin and history of each drink
Latte and cappuccino are symbols of Italian coffee culture.
Cappuccino appeared in Italy in the early twentieth century and was named after the color of the drink, which resembles the robes of Capuchin monks. The drink consists of espresso and foamed milk.
Latte (or caffè latte) usually contains more milk and less milk foam, so it has a milder flavor. Italians drink it mostly for breakfast.
Flat white appeared in the 1980s, either in Australia or New Zealand – both countries still argue about the authorship. This drink is the answer to the desire for rich coffee with velvety microfoam without a thick layer of milk foam on top.
With the development of globalization, taste preferences have become more sophisticated. People began to appreciate not only the taste, but also the quality of the coffee bean, the ratio of ingredients, and the presentation. Coffee-based dairy drinks have become part of culture and daily rituals around the world.
The difference between cappuccino, latte and flat white
Cappuccino is an espresso with equal parts hot milk and milk foam. It is usually served in a 180-250 ml cup, sometimes sprinkled with cocoa or cinnamon. The drink has a dense foam on top with distinct layers. The taste is deep and mild, with a subtle creamy texture.
Latte is an espresso with a large amount of hot milk and a small amount of milk foam. This drink is served in a glass or tall cup with a volume of 250-350 ml. It has a very mild, milky flavor with a slight coffee hint.
A flat white is a double ristretto with less milk than a latte and a thin layer of microfoam. The drink is served in a 150-200 ml cup. Flat white is distinguished by its creamy texture, smooth microfoam, and uniform color. The drink is richer than latte, with a distinct coffee flavor.
Differences in composition and proportions
Proportions matter. Precision creates flavor.
If the coffee component is predominant, the drink has an intense, brighter profile. If it is less, the drink is sweeter and softer. A large amount of foam adds lightness and airiness.
| Drink | Espresso | Hot milk | Milk foam |
| Cappuccino | 1/3 | 1/3 | 1/3 |
| Latte | 1/6 | 4/6 | 1/6 |
| Flat white | 1/3 (ristretto) | 2/3 of milk with milk foam | |
Why does foam texture matter? Microfoam is a velvety, shiny foam without large bubbles. It not only adds texture to the drink, but also combines the ingredients into a single creamy mass.
Barista magic: from grain to masterpiece
To make the perfect flat white, cappuccino, or latte, it’s not enough to just make a mixture of espresso and milk. Precision, a sense of balance, and skill are important. It is the barista who makes sure that the drink has the right temperature, texture, and flavor harmony. Every stage, from grinding to whipping, affects the result.
At our Barista School from Kyiv City Roastery, we help you master professional cooking techniques.
You will learn with us:
- Get microfoam with the perfect texture
- Working with an espresso machine
- Choose the right proportions for each type of drink
- Understand the characteristics of grains and water
It’s not just training – it’s a way to understand coffee culture and true craftsmanship.
The taste of each drink directly depends on the preparation technique. If the milk is whipped incorrectly – with large bubbles or overheated – the drink can lose its tenderness and even become bitter. Espresso that takes too long to brew gives it a sharp, tart flavor that doesn’t go well with the milk notes.
The ideal temperature for milk should be 60-65°C. At higher temperatures, it loses its sweetness. A fat content of 3.2% gives a better texture and flavor. Alternative options (oatmeal, almond) require a different approach.
The equipment should ideally be professional. An espresso machine allows you to precisely control pressure and temperature, which is critical for the quality of the espresso and the froth.
Cappuccino is made on the basis of classic espresso (30 ml).
For latte, take espresso (30 ml) or long shot (60 ml) for a milder flavor.
Flat white is made with double ristretto, which gives it a rich flavor even when combined with milk.
The difference in taste between latte, cappuccino and flat white
Each of the three drinks has a unique flavor balance due to the different proportions of foam, coffee, and milk:
Latte and cappuccino are suitable for those who do not like intense flavors.
Cappuccino has a slight bitterness and creamy flavor, coffee and milk play on equal terms, and milk foam adds airiness. A balanced choice for a break during the day.
Latte is the softest, milky, with a slight coffee hue.
Flat white is a concentrated drink with a distinct coffee character and silky texture.
In a latte, coffee complements the milk without dominating. Ideal in the morning or as a coffee dessert.
In a flat white, coffee comes first, and milk only emphasizes the depth of the espresso. An option for when you need to concentrate.
The social and cultural role of coffee
In many countries, coffee drinks have become a part of daily rituals: a morning cup is a moment of calm, a setting for the day, or time for yourself. Choosing a drink has become a form of self-expression: some people choose flat white for its depth of flavor, others choose latte or cappuccino for its lightness and aesthetics.
Coffee doesn’t just bring people together at the table, it’s also a communication tool and a source of inspiration for many. Its role goes far beyond the cup, creating an atmosphere for creative ideas and important conversations.
How to choose your perfect drink
It’s not just the difference in composition that matters, but also your own taste preferences, mood, and time of day.
Beginners should start with a latte. It is a mild and “friendly” drink.
For sophisticated coffee drinkers, flat white is the perfect choice, as it allows the rich flavor of coffee to come through.
For dairy drinks, freshly roasted beans with a medium to dark roast are best. They are rich enough not to get lost in the milk. For a harmonious flavor, look for arabica with notes of chocolate, nut or caramel.
Ideally, you’ll need a coffee machine with adjustable pressure, grind, and a steam tube for frothing. Alternatively, you can use a French press or a manual frother and grinder.
Conclusion
What is the difference between coffee drinks?
Cappuccino is a harmonious balance of ingredients.
Latte is mild, for those who like a light taste.
White is rich with a pronounced coffee flavor.
By experimenting with proportions and ingredients, you can find personalized variations to suit your mood, occasion, and lifestyle.
So enjoy every sip, choose your perfect drink and give yourself delicious moments every day!
