Caramel macchiato vs caramel latte. In this article, we explore the differences.
When it comes to coffee, there are endless options to choose from. Two popular choices are the caramel macchiato and the caramel latte. While they may seem similar at first glance, the two have some key differences.
After finishing the article, you should clearly understand the key aspects that make each drink unique.
Please note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link. Of course, this comes at no extra cost to you and helps me keep offering readers solid information.
Understanding Coffee Terms
Before comparing the drinks, it is essential to understand a few key terms.
Espresso
Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans. It is the base for many coffee drinks.
Macchiato
Macchiato means “stained” or “marked” in Italian. In the coffee world, a macchiato is typically a shot of espresso with a small amount of steamed milk added to it. This creates a layered effect, with the espresso on the bottom and the milk on top.
Caramel Macchiato
A Caramel Macchiato is a twist on an original macchiato. Some people call it new macchiato or latte macchiato. It is made with vanilla syrup, steamed milk, and espresso. It typically has a layer of foam on top and drizzled with caramel sauce.
Caramel macchiatos have been around for a while and are popular at cafes like Starbucks. In fact, Starbucks introduced the caramel macchiato to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 1996.
Latte
A latte is a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. It typically has a foam layer on top and can be flavored with syrups.
Caramel Latte
A caramel latte is a latte flavored with caramel syrup.
Caramel Macchiato vs Caramel Latte
Now that we understand some basic coffee terminology let’s look at the difference between camel macchiatos and caramel lattes. While they may seem similar, there are some key differences.
Preparation
A caramel macchiato is made by adding a shot of espresso to a mix of vanilla syrup and steamed milk. Notice the milk and vanilla are added first, and then the espresso. In this case, the espresso “stains” the milk (in a classic macchiato, the milk stains the espresso). The drink is then topped with foam and drizzled with caramel sauce. As a result, the caramel macchiato has a layered appearance.
A caramel latte is made by combining espresso with steamed milk and caramel syrup. In this case, the espresso is added first, and the mix of milk and caramel over it. The ingredients are usually mixed. Therefore, the caramel latte has a more uniform color. The drink is then topped with foam and drizzled with caramel sauce. Also, the caramel latte has more milk than the caramel macchiato.
Flavor & Texture
In terms of flavor, the caramel macchiato has a stronger espresso taste, while the caramel latte has a more balanced flavor. The caramel macchiato also has a slightly sweeter taste due to the addition of vanilla syrup and caramel sauce.
The texture of the two drinks is also different. The caramel latte is slightly creamier due to more steamed milk.
Caloric Content
Generally, a caramel macchiato tends to have more calories than a caramel latte. However, the number of calories can vary depending on the specific recipe and serving size.
On average, a medium-sized (16 oz) caramel latte can contain around 250-350 calories.
A medium-sized caramel macchiato can range from 300-450 calories. The addition of vanilla syrup contributes to the higher calorie content.
Caffeine Content
Regarding caffeine content, there is a slight difference between the caramel macchiato and caramel latte. Because of that, I do not think there is a point in getting into specifics.
My recommendation is to read the nutritional details of the drinks before ordering. It’s worth noting that the roast of the coffee, brewing methods, and beverage size affect the caffeine content.
Popular Variations
Let’s look at some of the most popular caramel macchiatos and caramel latte variations.
Iced Caramel Latte
An iced caramel latte is made with espresso, milk, and caramel syrup, all poured over ice. It’s perfect for those who prefer a sweeter, creamier drink.
Caramel Frappuccino
A caramel frappuccino is made with coffee, milk, caramel syrup, and ice, all blended to create a smooth and creamy drink.
Caramel Mocha
A caramel mocha is made with espresso, steamed milk, chocolate syrup, and caramel syrup, all topped with whipped cream and caramel drizzle. It’s perfect for those who want a rich and indulgent drink.
Iced Caramel Macchiato
An iced caramel macchiato is made with espresso, milk, and caramel syrup, poured over ice, and topped with foam or whipped cream. Iced macchiatos contain less milk than iced lattes.
Cold Brew Caramel Latte
If you’re a fan of cold brew coffee, you might want to try a cold brew caramel latte. This drink is made with cold brew coffee, milk, and caramel syrup, and it’s perfect for those who want a smooth and refreshing drink with a hint of sweetness.
Americano
If you prefer your coffee on the stronger side, you might want to try an americano with caramel syrup. An americano is made with espresso and hot water; adding caramel syrup can give it a sweet and flavorful twist.
Caramel Macchiato vs Caramel Latte: Customization
When it comes to coffee, customization is key. The caramel macchiato and the caramel latte offer various customization options that allow you to tailor your drink to your preference.
Starting with the espresso base, you can add a ristretto shot (a short espresso shot) for a stronger, more concentrated flavor. This is a great option for those who prefer a bolder taste in their coffee. Additionally, you can choose between whole beans or pre-ground coffee for your espresso shot.
Moving on to the milk, you can choose between different types of milk, such as whole, skim, almond, or soy milk. This is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a non-dairy alternative.
Next, you can choose the amount of caramel syrup added to your drink. This is an excellent option for those who prefer a sweeter taste in their coffee. You can add whipped cream and caramel drizzle for an extra indulgent treat.
Buying Recommendations
Here are our suggestions regarding equipment and ingredients in case you want to prepare caramel macchiatos and caramel lattes at home.
De’Longhi Stilosa Manual Espresso Machine, Latte & Cappuccino Maker
Zulay Powerful Milk Frother Handheld Foam Maker
Lavazza Super Crema Whole Bean Coffee Blend
Lavazza Crema E Gusto Ground Coffee Blend
Ghirardelli Caramel Sauce Squeeze Bottle
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a caramel macchiato and a caramel latte?
Both drinks are made with espresso and steamed milk, but the main difference is the order in which the ingredients are added. A caramel macchiato is made by adding vanilla syrup and steamed milk to a shot of espresso then topping it off with caramel sauce. On the other hand, a caramel latte is made by adding caramel syrup to the espresso shot and then pouring steamed milk on top.
Which is sweeter, a latte or a macchiato?
It depends on the recipe and the amount of syrup used. Generally, a caramel latte is sweeter than a caramel macchiato because the syrup is added directly to the espresso shot. However, adding more syrup to a macchiato can be just as sweet as a latte.
Is a caramel macchiato sweeter than a caramel latte?
Not necessarily. As mentioned before, it depends on the amount of syrup used in each drink. A caramel macchiato can be made sweeter than a caramel latte if more syrup is added.
Which is better, a latte or a macchiato?
This is a matter of personal preference. A caramel latte is creamier and sweeter, while a caramel macchiato has a stronger espresso flavor and is slightly less sweet. If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, go for a macchiato. If you prefer a sweeter drink, go for a latte.
Is a caramel macchiato stronger than a caramel latte?
Yes, a caramel macchiato is generally stronger than a caramel latte because it has less steamed milk and more espresso.
Are caramel macchiatos and caramel lattes the same thing?
No, they are not the same thing. As explained earlier, the main difference is the order in which the ingredients are added. A caramel macchiato is made by adding vanilla syrup and steamed milk to a shot of espresso then topping it off with caramel sauce. A caramel latte is made by adding caramel syrup to the espresso shot and pouring steamed milk on top.
I am a big fan of caramel macchiatos and caramel lattes. I hope you have enjoyed the article and learned something new.
Caramel macchiato vs caramel latte, which one do you prefer?