The Macchiato
If you’re in a coffee shop long enough, you’re bound to hear someone order a “Macchiato”. But do people really know what they’re ordering or is it just a fun word to say? Hopefully, the former (although it does sound cool), but in any case, let’s discuss what it means to be a Macchiato.
If you’re in a coffee shop long enough, you’re bound to hear someone order a “Macchiato”. But do people really know what they’re ordering or is it just a fun word to say? Hopefully, the former (although it does sound cool), but in any case, let’s discuss what it means to be a Macchiato.
Espresso Macchiato
Just like the Mario Bros, Vespas, and the spicy meat-a ball-a, the Macchiato comes from Italy, and translates to “stained” or “spotted”. The recipe calls for espresso with a touch of steamed milk, which “stains” the coffee. Baristas began using the name in an effort to distinguish a regular espresso from an espresso with a tiny bit of milk in it. In fact, the Macchiato has the highest ratio of espresso to milk of any espresso+milk drink! But it’s important to note that this pertains to the original Macchiato, the Espresso Macchiato, literally translating to “stained coffee”.
Just like the Mario Bros, Vespas, and the spicy meat-a ball-a, the Macchiato comes from Italy, and translates to “stained” or “spotted”. The recipe calls for espresso with a touch of steamed milk, which “stains” the coffee. Baristas began using the name in an effort to distinguish a regular espresso from an espresso with a tiny bit of milk in it. In fact, the Macchiato has the highest ratio of espresso to milk of any espresso+milk drink! But it’s important to note that this pertains to the original Macchiato, the Espresso Macchiato, literally translating to “stained coffee”.
This beverage was created as an afternoon pick me-up, as opposed to the Cappuccino, which is traditionally a morning drink. The milk serves to moderate the strength of the espresso taste and add a hint of sweetness to provide a milder alternative to just a straight espresso shot. It is traditionally served in a small glass or ceramic cup.
Latte Macchiato
The Latte Macchiato is a much newer creation. This drink reverses the ratio and is now mostly emphasizing the milk. It comes in a much larger portion size and is layered along with more foam. It often times is ordered with flavored syrups, such as the Caramel Macchiato.
The Latte Macchiato is a much newer creation. This drink reverses the ratio and is now mostly emphasizing the milk. It comes in a much larger portion size and is layered along with more foam. It often times is ordered with flavored syrups, such as the Caramel Macchiato.
If I Say Macchiato, What Will I Get?
If you’re at a specialty coffee shop and ask for a Macchiato, you will get the Espresso Macchiato. However, if you are at a chain, there’s a good chance that you will receive the Latte Macchiato.
If you’re at a specialty coffee shop and ask for a Macchiato, you will get the Espresso Macchiato. However, if you are at a chain, there’s a good chance that you will receive the Latte Macchiato.
Okay, But Which Should I Get?
If you’re looking for a bold and rich coffee flavor, there’s no better choice than the Espresso Macchiato. It delivers a beautiful espresso taste accompanied with a kick of caffeine. Just keep in mind that the serving size is relatively small, so if you’re looking for something to last you longer, order a double or consider the Cappuccino.
If you’re looking for a bold and rich coffee flavor, there’s no better choice than the Espresso Macchiato. It delivers a beautiful espresso taste accompanied with a kick of caffeine. Just keep in mind that the serving size is relatively small, so if you’re looking for something to last you longer, order a double or consider the Cappuccino.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for more of a cozy and dairy-heavy drink, you’ll want to choose the Latte Macchiato. This beverage will be much smoother, with just a hint of espresso, making it also perfect for people just dipping their tongues into the world of coffee.