The cappuccino is one of the most beloved espresso-based drinks, known for its perfect balance of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. A staple in Italian coffee culture, its name comes from the Capuchin monks, whose brown robes and hooded habits resembled the drink’s distinct layers of rich coffee, creamy milk, and airy foam.
The cappuccino is all about harmony—the bold intensity of espresso, the smoothness of steamed milk, and the light, velvety texture of microfoam. With a perfect 1:1:1 ratio of these three components, it delivers a rich yet delicate coffee experience, making it a timeless favorite around the world.
What Makes a Cappuccino Different?
☕ Equal Parts Espresso, Milk, and Foam – Unlike a latte, which contains more steamed milk, a cappuccino keeps each element balanced for a bold yet creamy drink.
☕ Creamy Yet Airy Texture – The thick layer of microfoam gives cappuccino its fluffier, lighter feel compared to a flat white or cortado.
☕ Stronger Coffee Flavor – Because it contains less milk than a latte, a cappuccino lets the bold espresso flavor shine through while still offering a smooth, well-rounded sip.
How to Make a Perfect Cappuccino
☕ Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (10g) finely ground coffee
- 6 oz (180ml) cold, filtered water (for brewing espresso)
- 2 oz (60ml) steamed milk
- 2 oz (60ml) foamed milk
🌡 Temperature Guide
- Brew water: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
- Milk steaming: 150–160°F (65–70°C)
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
1️⃣ Brew a Double Shot of Espresso
Use an espresso machine to pull a 2 oz (60ml) double shot of rich, balanced espresso.
2️⃣ Steam & Foam the Milk
- Steam 4 oz (120ml) of milk to create 2 oz (60ml) of steamed milk + 2 oz (60ml) of microfoam.
- Incorporate air while steaming to achieve a rich, velvety microfoam—not too frothy, not too flat.
3️⃣ Breathe It In
☕ Breathe it in. The scent of fresh coffee is an invitation to awaken—not just the body, but the soul. That’s why we encourage you to take that extra second or two to pause and enjoy your coffee before drinking by smelling it and thinking, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
4️⃣ Pour the Milk Over the Espresso
- First, pour the steamed milk over the espresso.
- Then, spoon the thick, velvety microfoam on top to create a layered effect.
- The ideal cappuccino has equal layers of espresso, milk, and foam.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy
A cappuccino is traditionally served in a small 5–6 oz (150–180ml) cup. Sip slowly and savor the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Cappuccino vs. Other Espresso Drinks
✔ Cappuccino vs. Latte – A latte has significantly more steamed milk and a lighter layer of foam, making it creamier and less intense than a cappuccino.
✔ Cappuccino vs. Flat White – A flat white uses only steamed milk with microfoam, resulting in a smoother, silkier drink compared to the airy foam of a cappuccino.
✔ Cappuccino vs. Cortado – A cortado is half espresso, half steamed milk, with no foam, making it denser and bolder than a cappuccino.
Why Choose a Cappuccino?
✔ A Perfectly Balanced Coffee Experience – Not too strong, not too milky—just the right mix of bold espresso, creamy milk, and velvety foam.
✔ A Classic Staple in Coffee Culture – Whether in an Italian café or a local coffee shop, a cappuccino is a trusted go-to for coffee lovers.
✔ Rich Flavor with a Luxurious Texture – The airy microfoam makes every sip feel light yet indulgent, making cappuccino a satisfying yet refined coffee choice.
