Caramel macchiato and latte are two of the most popular coffee drinks around the world. Some coffee lovers may find them the same drink because of their similar looks. But, they are different beverages.
In this post, we will discuss the key differences between these two drinks and see which one is better.
Macchiato and Latte Caramel – What Are The Differences?
At a first glance, both of these drinks look nearly similar. However, the main difference lies in the ingredients.
A caramel macchiato contains espresso and milk foam. On the other hand, a caramel latte contains espresso, steamed milk, and a top of milk foam. As a result, the taste of a caramel macchiato is more intense. In contrast, the taste of a caramel latte is smoother.
Another difference between these two beverages is in the preparation. To make a caramel macchiato, the espresso is added first, followed by the milk foam.
However, to make a caramel latte, the espresso and steamed milk are combined first, and then the milk foam is added on top. It creates a drink that is both creamy and flavorful.
We will talk about the taste and strength of each drink in the next parts of the article.
Macchiato and Latte Similarities
Though we are talking about the differences between caramel macchiato and latte, both of these coffee drinks have some similarities as well. For instance, both drinks have espresso as their base. Another similarity is that they are topped with milk foam. Moreover, both of these drinks are sweetened with caramel.
Is a caramel macchiato considered a latte?
Many people think that macchiato is also considered a latte. But, the thinking is wrong! A caramel macchiato is not considered a latte. However, it often tastes like a vanilla latte with less sweetness.
The ingredients of both beverages are mostly unique. They also have different layers of espresso, milk, and foam. Besides, a macchiato has less milk than a latte and a stronger coffee flavor.
Caramel macchiato vs. latte taste
If you have ever tried both caramel macchiato and latte, you should notice a big difference in their tastes.
Caramel macchiato and caramel latte have distinct flavor profiles. Caramel macchiato recipes use vanilla syrup. So, you will feel a sweeter taste.
In contrast, more steamed milk is added to the caramel latte. For this reason, it tastes creamier and smoother.
Caramel macchiato vs. latte caffeine
When it comes to deciding between a caramel macchiato and a latte, many coffee drinkers are concerned about the caffeine content. Surprisingly, caramel macchiato and latte contain nearly the same level of caffeine.
A 16-ounce caramel macchiato from Starbucks contains 150 milligrams of caffeine, whereas a 16-ounce latte contains 180 milligrams.
However, keep in mind that the caffeine content can vary depending on the size and brand of the drink.
Latte vs. caramel macchiato calories
Calorie counts of these popular drinks vary from 100 to 200 per serving depending on the size and flavorings added. A 16-ounce latte carries around 180 calories. In contrast, the same amount of macchiato contains about 220 calories.
The number of additives and pumps of flavoring syrup makes all the difference when it comes to the calorie of latte and macchiato.
Read: What is Frappuccino Roast?
Are caramel Macchiatos stronger than lattes?
A caramel macchiato is stronger than a caramel latte because it is made with espresso, which has a higher concentration of caffeine than regular coffee. Caramel macchiato will give you a bigger energy boost than a caramel latte.
The espresso in a caramel macchiato adds a richer flavor to the drink. on the other hand, the milk in a latte helps to balance out the sweetness of the caramel. So, if you want a drink that is both sweet and energizing, a caramel macchiato is the way to go.
Read: Powder Creamer vs Liquid Creamer
Which Roast is Used for Caramel Macchiato and Latte?
The selection and usage of the accurate roast are crucial for any coffee drink to reach the desired taste. When talking about caramel macchiato and latte, medium roast coffee is the best choice.
Using the light roast and dark roast for these drinks is usually discouraged because they will make the beverage either too weak or too strong.
Medium roast coffee has the right amount of flavor to balance the sweetness of the caramel and milk in these drinks. In addition, medium roast coffee is less likely to be bitter than dark roast.
So if you want to make the perfect caramel macchiato or latte, be sure to use medium roast coffee beans.
Caramel macchiato vs. latte healthier
Both of these drinks are mouth-watering. But, which one is healthier according to dieticians? Its answer will be the caramel macchiato.
The caramel macchiato has fewer calories, fat, and protein than the caramel latte. The drink is also a good choice if you want to avoid extra sugar.
So, the caramel macchiato is a great choice when looking for a healthy option with a quick energy boost.
Which is better latte or macchiato?
Caramel macchiato and latte are equally excellent beverages. So, the better one depends on your personal preferences.
Latte is the perfect choice when looking for a rich, creamy drink with hints of vanilla and caramel. Macchiato, on the other hand, is a great option if you want to enjoy a delicious espresso with less bitterness.
In short, if you are in the mood for something sweet and indulgent, go for a latte. In contrast, go for a macchiato when you are in the mood for a pure coffee experience.
Final words
So, is a caramel macchiato better than a latte or vice versa? The answer is—it depends. Both drinks are delicious in their own place and offer different experiences.
If you want to enjoy a classic coffeehouse drink with rich flavor and a beautiful layer of foam on top, go for the caramel macchiato. But, when you crave something heavier and more filling, go for the latte with its added dose of milk fat. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference.
References:
https://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us/product/latte-caramel-small.html
