If you’ve ever walked into a coffee shop and felt overwhelmed by the menu, you’re not alone. Latte, cappuccino, and flat white are three of the most popular espresso-based drinks, but their differences can be subtle. Each drink has a unique ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, creating distinct textures and flavors. Some are strong and bold, while others are smooth and creamy.
In this guide, you’ll learn the differences between these classic coffee drinks, how they are made, and which one might be best for your taste.
The Basic Ingredients
Before diving into the differences, it’s important to understand what these drinks have in common. All three beverages are made with espresso, a concentrated coffee brewed under pressure, steamed milk, which adds creaminess and texture, and milk foam, which gives volume and mouthfeel. The way these ingredients are combined determines the final texture, strength, and experience of each drink.
The Key Differences Between a Latte, Cappuccino, and Flat White
Although these three drinks contain the same ingredients, they have different milk-to-coffee ratios and varying levels of foam.
Cappuccino – Bold & Frothy
A cappuccino is one of the most balanced espresso drinks, offering equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. This structure creates a fluffy, velvety mouthfeel while keeping the bold taste of espresso. The foam acts as an insulator, keeping the cappuccino warm for longer. The thick milk froth also reduces the bitterness of the espresso while maintaining a rich, bold flavor. Cappuccinos typically come in small cups, around 150-180ml (5-6oz). They are ideal for those who enjoy a stronger espresso taste with a creamy texture. Best paired with sweet pastries like croissants or biscotti.
Latte – Smooth & Creamy
A latte contains more steamed milk than a cappuccino, making it much creamier and smoother. The foam layer is minimal, allowing the steamed milk and espresso to blend seamlessly. Lattes have a subtle coffee flavor, making them perfect for those who enjoy milkier drinks or want to add flavored syrups like vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. The serving size is larger, usually around 240-350ml (8-12oz). This is a great choice for those who prefer a mild coffee taste with a lot of milk. Best enjoyed with savory breakfast items like avocado toast or sandwiches.
Flat White – Strong & Velvety
A flat white is like a smaller, stronger latte, but it differs in milk texture. Instead of using airy milk foam like a cappuccino or loose steamed milk like a latte, a flat white is made with microfoam—a fine, silky milk texture that blends perfectly with the espresso. Since a flat white has less milk than a latte, the espresso flavor is more pronounced, making it ideal for those who love a bold coffee taste with a creamy texture. The serving size is typically between 150-200ml (5-7oz). Best paired with buttery biscuits or nutty desserts.
Side-by-Side Comparison
A cappuccino has a strong espresso flavor with thick foam, a latte is milder and creamier with more milk, and a flat white has a strong espresso taste with silky milk but no thick foam. Cappuccinos are small, lattes are large, and flat whites fall somewhere in between. If you love a bold coffee flavor with a creamy, frothy texture, go for a cappuccino. If you prefer a milkier, smoother drink, a latte is the best choice. If you want something strong but with a silky texture, the flat white is perfect for you.
How to Make Each Drink at Home
To make a cappuccino, brew one shot of espresso, steam 60ml of milk until it becomes thick and foamy, then pour one-third steamed milk over the espresso, finishing with one-third milk foam.
To make a latte, brew one shot of espresso, steam 180ml of milk until it becomes creamy with a light foam, then pour the steamed milk over the espresso, finishing with a thin layer of foam.
To make a flat white, brew one or two shots of espresso, steam 120ml of milk to create a smooth, velvety microfoam, then pour the milk over the espresso, blending smoothly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using stale coffee will result in a flat espresso with no crema. Always use fresh beans for the best espresso flavor. Overheating milk above 70°C (160°F) will scorch it, making it taste burnt. The ideal temperature is between 55-65°C (130-150°F). Not swirling the milk after steaming can cause uneven textures. Proper mixing ensures a smooth, creamy consistency. Pouring milk too fast can ruin the layers of the drink. A slow, controlled pour is essential for achieving the right balance.
Final Thoughts
Latte, cappuccino, and flat white all have their own unique characteristics. Whether you prefer frothy, creamy, or velvety textures, there’s a perfect coffee drink for every taste. If you’re new to these drinks, try making each one at home and discover which style suits your taste best!