Latte Macchiato

What is Latte Macchiato

Like most Espresso drinks, Latte Machiato has its roots in Italy – the home of Espresso coffee, if you will.

But why is it called Latte Macchiato?  The literal translation is “stained (marked) milk”. Latte Macchiato is basically frothed milk with a tiny amount of Espresso coffee added to it. Doesn’t it sound delicious!

Note: Not to be confused with Caffè Macchiato or Caffè Latte.

Short explanation of the difference between the drinks:

• Caffè Macchiato (Espresso Macchiato) is a double or triple shot of Espresso with a dollop of milk foam on top.
• Caffè Latte is a single shot of Espresso with steamed milk that forms a froth on top (1/3 of Espresso and 2/3 of milk). Milk is added to Espresso.
• Latte Macchiato is a steamed milk with a little bit of Espresso coffee used, usually half shot. Espresso is added to milk.

Simple way to prepare your Latte Macchiato at home:

• Pour cold milk into pitcher and froth it with steam wand in your Espresso machine.
• (If your machine doesn’t contain the steam wand, simply pour the milk into a pan and steam it on the hob. Don’t forget to whisk the milk to make sure it won’t stick to the bottom.)
• When the milk is ready, pour it into a tall ‘Latte’ glass. Use a spoon to separate a little bit of the ‘dry’ foam while pouring and add it on top.
• Now it’s time to make a shot of Espresso coffee. I recommend you do not use a regular coffee cup, but something like a little milk jug that has the peak for pouring.
• Take the hot Espresso and use approximately half a shot. Pour it carefully in the middle of the cup.
• You may notice that on the top of the foam there is a hole where the milk has separated from the pouring; use the rest of the foam from the pitcher to cover it up and create a nice tip with a spoon.
• The drink will now divide into three layers of milk, coffee and foam.
• Sprinkle with grounded chocolate or cinnamon if desired.