As an Italian creation, Caffe Macchiato is an espresso-based drink topped with a spoonful of foamed milk. From Italian to English, the literal translation of macchiato is stained, therefore, Caffe Macchiato translates to stained coffee.
The ‘coffee’ being espresso and the ‘stain’ frothed milk.
Two common names for this cup of coffee are latte macchiato and espresso macchiato, with the latter being the original.
Origin
In completely basic form a macchiato is just espresso with a little milk so it’s hard to credit one individual with the original idea.
Since espresso gives you such a kick of energy, coffee lovers had to alter the drink to consume it in the evening. Finally, someone tried to dilute their espresso with a little milk, and voila, you have your origin story. Maybe the origin is not as romantic as the stories behind a frappe or an Americano, but the coffee is just as potent.
Espresso Macchiato
The original form of the drink, coming from Italy, has a basic recipe. Add a little steamed milk to your espresso. Not overly complicated, right?
So, what’s the big deal? A macchiato is the closest espresso-based drink to the original shot of espresso. The purpose of it as mentioned before is to subdue the kick you would usually get from espresso by adding a spoonful of steamed milk to the coffee. Here is a handy guide on how to steam milk in case you need a refresher.
Latte Macchiato
Latte macchiato has the same basic concept but executed in a different order. In this method, you add a shot of espresso to an already poured cup of milk, instead of the other way around.
This way your coffee has more milk and less espresso. If you want to get the most out of this coffee pour it in a tall clear glass to see the layers of milk, espresso, and foam.
How to Make One at Home?
The steps for the original are quite simple. Just pour a double shot of espresso into a ceramic cup and dab (stain) the coffee with a spoon of steamed milk.
Take at this walkthrough if you are still not sure:
To make a latte macchiato you’ll need to add a couple of easy steps. As they mention in the video, an easy way to remember the difference between the two variations is first in ‘name’, first in ‘cup’.
Finally
Café Macchiato – ‘Stained Coffee’ originating from Italy. Espresso diluted by a stain of milk.
Espresso Macchiato – The original, where the espresso is poured first followed by a little steamed milk.
Latte Macchiato – A variation where espresso is poured into a glass of milk and steamed milk added on top.
If you are thinking the variations sound identical, then you should know the ingredients are but to coffee geeks like me, there is a notable subtle taste difference in each cup.
The only way to know if the espresso or latte suits you better is to try each for yourself. Go on, give each a try if you are feeling adventurous.
I’ve always seen coffee as a way of bringing people together. Everywhere I go people seem to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee and that’s what drives my passion. There’s always a new brew to master, and there’s always a new face to enjoy it with. Hitch a ride with me on a coffee-fueled adventure to find a perfect cup.
