How To Make A Macchiato: 2 Recipes For A Delicious Coffee

Content Summary

Making an espresso macchiato is a lot simpler than it sounds. Here are 2 easy-to-follow recipes that will help you create the perfect espresso macchiato and latte macchiato.

1. How To Make An Espresso Macchiato

Ingredients

1 shot of espresso
1/2 cup of strongly brewed coffee
4 tablespoons of steamed milk (your choice—dairy or non-dairy)
2 teaspoons of brown sugar
Cinnamon and/or cocoa powder (optional)

Make An Espresso Macchiato Cup

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You will need freshly-ground espresso beans or coffee grounds, a milk frother, a thermometer, and a cup.

Step 2: Prepare The Espresso

Brew your espresso.

Grind two teaspoons of fresh espresso beans and then use your favorite brewing method (e.g., an espresso machine, or stovetop moka pot) to prepare one shot of espresso.
Make sure that the brewed coffee is between 195°F and 205°F. To ensure that the temperature is just right, use a thermometer to check before serving.
Mix 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.

Step 3: Froth The Milk

Once your espresso is prepared, start frothing the milk.

Pour one cup of cold milk into the frother and then turn on the device until you see foam forming on top of the liquid.
You can also add sugar or other flavorings if desired at this step.

Step 4: Assemble Your Drink

Now that everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your drink!

Pour your espresso into a cup, and then top off with a thin layer of freshly-frothed milk.
Use a spoon to swirl around so that all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the drink. Enjoy!

2. How To Make A Latte Macchiato

Ingredients

1 cup of freshly brewed coffee
6 ounces of steamed milk
2 tablespoons of frothy foam
2 teaspoons of white sugar

Make A Latte Macchiato Cup

Start by brewing a cup of strong coffee.
Mix 1/2 of the milk with sugar, and stir well.
Pour the steamed milk into the bottom of a transparent glass.
Gently layer the freshly brewed coffee into the glass, above the espresso layer.
Then top off with a steamed milk layer.
In a separate container, heat 1/3 of the milk and foam together until they form a nice frothy foam.
Add whipped cream, sprinkle in some cinnamon and/or cocoa powder for added flavor, and a beautiful presentation if desired.
Gently spoon the remaining frothy foam into the top of the glass, to create a latte macchiato. Enjoy!

Macchiato FAQs

Here are some common questions about how to make a macchiato.

What is the difference between an espresso macchiato and a latte macchiato?

An espresso macchiato has a stronger coffee flavor, as it is made with espresso and steamed milk, while a latte macchiato has more of a milky flavor as it is made with steamed milk and frothy foam.

What's the difference between a latte and a macchiato?

The main difference between a latte and a macchiato is how the milk and espresso are layered.

In a macchiato, the espresso is added first, then the coffee, and then steamed milk is poured over it. In a latte, the milk is added first and the espresso is gently layered, and milk foam on top of it.
The latte has a thicker layer of foam than that found in a macchiato. The macchiato also contains more espresso than a latte, resulting in a bolder flavor.

What coffee is best for macchiato?

When making a macchiato, it's best to use espresso-based coffee. This will give the drink its iconic bold flavor and balanced creamy texture.

If you don’t have access to espresso, you can opt for a darker roast and use a French press or moka pot.

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Tips & Tricks

For a richer and creamier macchiato, use whole or 2% milk in the recipe. You can also add different flavors like hazelnut, caramel, or vanilla extract to enhance your drink.
For a vegan drink, try almond, soy, or oat milk in place of cow’s milk.
For a stronger espresso macchiato, you can use two shots of espresso instead of one, and adjust the amounts of coffee and milk accordingly.
You can also opt for an iced macchiato! Just prepare the recipe as usual and then add ice cubes for a cool, summery twist.