How to Make Latte Macchiato
Latte Macchiato is one of the best cafe drinks to master at home — it's simple, impressive, and cheaper than the cafe version. Here's the exact recipe, the ratio that matters, and the common mistakes to avoid.
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Editorial note: this guide is compiled from published manufacturer guidance, general best practices, and aggregated owner experience — not hands-on testing. Always follow your machine’s official manual.
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Kitchen Scale (0.1g)
Editor’s PickWeighing your coffee keeps every recipe consistent — the cheapest upgrade in home coffee.
- + Consistency
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A $15 handheld frother turns this recipe from 'good' into 'cafe-level' in seconds.
- + Cafe foam at home
- + Cheap
- − Batteries
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Buying advice
8 oz steamed milk + 1 shot espresso poured on top. Steam and pour the milk into a glass, then pour the espresso slowly over the top — the shot forms a distinct dark layer on the milk. Pro tip: Latte macchiato is the inverse of a cappuccino — mostly milk, with the espresso as a dramatic top layer.
FAQ
Latte macchiato vs cappuccino?
Latte macchiato is mostly milk with an espresso layer on top; cappuccino is equal-ish parts espresso, milk, and foam with the coffee integrated.
Why does the espresso layer float?
Slow pouring over the back of a spoon keeps the shot on top of the milk — the layered look is the point.
What's the foam ratio?
A latte macchiato has a little foam on top for the espresso to rest on — about 1 inch of dry foam.
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Kitchen Scale (0.1g)
Weighing your coffee keeps every recipe consistent — the cheapest upgrade in home coffee.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
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