Confused about the common espresso with milk drinks? Our ultimate guide breaks down lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more, so you can order (or make) your favorite coffee with confidence!
Why Espresso and Milk Work So Well Together
Espresso on its own? Bold, intense, and rich. But when you add milk, it transforms the drink entirely. The creaminess softens the strong espresso taste, while steamed milk and foam create different textures that make each drink unique.
The ratio of espresso to milk is what defines each coffee drink. Some have more milk for a smoother taste, while others keep things bold and punchy.
Guide to Common Espresso with Milk Drinks
1. Latte (Caffè Latte) – The Smooth Operator
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + LOTS of steamed milk + light foam
A latte is the go-to for those who love a creamy, mild coffee. It’s made with a shot of espresso and a generous amount of steamed milk, topped with just a tiny bit of foam. Because of the high milk content, the espresso flavor is subtle, making it a great choice for those who prefer a smoother, less intense coffee experience.
- Best for: If you love your coffee mild, milky, and smooth.
2. Cappuccino – The Perfect Balance
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + equal parts steamed milk + thick foam
If lattes feel too milky for you, cappuccinos might be your best bet. This drink gives you a stronger espresso taste since it contains less milk than a latte and has a thick, frothy foam layer on top. The foam not only makes it feel light and airy but also helps keep the drink warm for longer.
- Best for: If you enjoy a stronger coffee flavor but still love a creamy texture.
3. Flat White – The Espresso Lover’s Dream
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + less steamed milk (no foam)
A flat white is like a latte’s bolder, more refined cousin. It has less milk, so the espresso flavor is more pronounced. There’s no thick foam on top—just silky, velvety steamed milk that blends beautifully with the espresso. Originally from Australia and New Zealand, this drink has become a worldwide favorite.
- Best for: If you want a strong coffee hit with just a touch of creaminess.
4. Macchiato – A Small but Mighty Kick
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + just a splash of milk
The word “macchiato” means “stained” in Italian—because that’s exactly what it is: an espresso “stained” with a tiny bit of milk. Unlike lattes and cappuccinos, a macchiato keeps the espresso as the star of the show while softening its sharp edge just a little.
- Best for: If you love your coffee bold but want a tiny touch of creaminess.
5. Cortado – The Espresso-Milk Equalizer
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + equal parts steamed milk
A cortado is similar to a macchiato but with more milk, making it smoother and easier to drink. It’s not foamy, just warm, silky milk blended evenly with the espresso. Originating from Spain, this drink is perfect for those who want a balance between espresso strength and milk smoothness.
- Best for: If you want equal espresso and milk for a rich but balanced taste.
6. Mocha – The Coffee Meets Chocolate Delight
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + steamed milk + chocolate syrup + (optional) whipped cream
Love hot chocolate but need a caffeine kick? A mocha is your perfect match. It’s essentially a latte with added chocolate, making it sweet, rich, and comforting. It’s the ultimate treat for anyone who enjoys dessert-like coffee drinks.
- Best for: If you have a sweet tooth and love the combo of coffee and chocolate.
7. Breve – The Luxuriously Creamy Choice
- Ratio: 1 shot espresso + steamed half-and-half
A breve is an extra-rich version of a latte, made with half-and-half (a mix of milk and cream) instead of regular milk. This gives it a super creamy, luxurious texture. It’s indulgent, smooth, and naturally a little sweeter.
- Best for: If you love thicker, creamier coffee drinks.
So, Which One Should You Order?
If you’re still unsure, here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Love it mild & milky? Go for a latte or breve
- Want a stronger espresso flavor? Try a cappuccino or flat white
- Like your coffee bold but with a hint of milk? Choose a macchiato or cortado
- Craving something sweet? A mocha is your best bet
Final Thoughts
Espresso with milk drinks might seem complicated, but they all come down to how much milk and foam you want in your cup. Whether you like it light and milky or bold and rich, there’s a perfect coffee for every mood.
Next time you step into a café (or make coffee at home), you’ll know exactly what to order. So tell me—which one is your go-to?