What Is a Latte?
A latte is an espresso drink made with one or two shots of espresso and steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of milk foam, typically in a ratio of about 1 part espresso to 3-4 parts steamed milk.
More detail
The word "latte" is short for caffè latte, Italian for "milk coffee." The drink starts with one or two shots of espresso pulled into a cup, then steamed milk is poured in, filling most of the volume, with just a thin layer of microfoam (about half a centimeter) on top. That small amount of foam is what separates a latte from a flat white or plain milk-and-coffee. Because milk makes up the bulk of the drink, a latte tastes milder and creamier than a cappuccino or macchiato, where the espresso-to-milk ratio is much higher. Baristas often use the thin foam layer as a canvas for latte art, pouring the milk in a controlled stream to create hearts, rosettas, or other patterns on the surface.
Where it's used
Lattes are served hot or iced, plain or flavored with syrups like vanilla, caramel, or seasonal additions such as pumpkin spice. They're typically served in an 8 to 12 ounce cup, larger than a cappuccino, since the milk volume is greater. At home, they're made with an espresso machine and a steam wand, or approximated using a moka pot and a milk frother.
Substitutes
Without an espresso machine, strongly brewed coffee (like a concentrated pour-over or moka pot coffee) steamed or heated with milk makes a reasonable stand-in, sometimes called a "latte" informally, though it lacks the crema and intensity of true espresso.
FAQ
What's the difference between a latte and a cappuccino?
A latte has more steamed milk and just a thin layer of foam, making it creamier and milder. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, giving it a stronger coffee flavor and a thicker foam cap.
What's the difference between a latte and a flat white?
A flat white uses less milk and has a higher ratio of espresso to milk than a latte, resulting in a smaller, stronger-tasting drink with a very thin layer of microfoam instead of a distinct foam cap.
How much caffeine is in a latte?
A standard latte made with a single espresso shot has about 63-75 mg of caffeine, similar to a cappuccino or macchiato, since caffeine comes from the espresso shot, not the milk.
Can a latte be made without an espresso machine?
Yes, using a moka pot for concentrated coffee and a handheld or electric milk frother for the steamed milk, though the texture and crema won't fully match espresso made with a machine.