A macchiato is a classic Italian espresso drink known for its strong coffee flavor with just a touch of milk. Unlike lattes or cappuccinos, a macchiato keeps the bold espresso taste as the star of the drink, making it perfect for those who enjoy a strong yet smooth coffee experience.
If you love the balance of rich espresso and creamy milk, learning to make a macchiato at home will elevate your coffee game. In this guide, you’ll discover what a macchiato is, the different types, and how to make it step by step.
What is a Macchiato?
The word “macchiato” means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian, referring to how the espresso is “stained” with a small amount of milk. A traditional macchiato is simply a shot of espresso with a small dollop of milk foam, making it stronger than a latte but less intense than a straight espresso.
There are two main types of macchiatos:
- Espresso Macchiato – A shot of espresso with a small amount of milk or milk foam.
- Latte Macchiato – A glass of steamed milk “stained” with a shot of espresso, creating a layered look.
Both variations offer different experiences, so you can choose the one that suits your taste best!
What You Need to Make a Macchiato
To make a classic macchiato, you’ll need:
- 1 shot of espresso (or ½ cup of strong brewed coffee)
- A small amount of steamed milk or milk foam
- An espresso cup or small glass
For a latte macchiato, you’ll need:
- 1 cup of steamed milk
- 1 shot of espresso
- A tall glass
You can use whole milk, oat milk, almond milk, or any milk of your choice to create the perfect texture and taste.
How to Make an Espresso Macchiato
Step 1: Brew the Espresso
Start by making a fresh shot of espresso using an espresso machine, Moka pot, or Aeropress. If you don’t have an espresso maker, brew ½ cup of strong coffee as an alternative.
Step 2: Froth a Small Amount of Milk
Steam a small amount of milk using a steam wand or heat milk on the stove and whisk it until frothy. You only need about 1–2 tablespoons of milk foam for an espresso macchiato.
Step 3: Add the Milk to the Espresso
Pour the espresso into a small cup and gently spoon the milk foam on top. The foam should sit on the espresso without completely mixing in, creating a “stained” effect.
Step 4: Enjoy Immediately
Since an espresso macchiato is small and strong, it’s best enjoyed fresh and hot in just a few sips.
How to Make a Latte Macchiato
Step 1: Steam the Milk
Heat 1 cup of milk until warm but not boiling. Use a steam wand, frother, or whisk to create smooth, velvety microfoam.
Step 2: Pour the Steamed Milk into a Tall Glass
Fill a glass with the steamed milk, leaving some room at the top for the espresso.
Step 3: Slowly Add the Espresso
Brew a single shot of espresso and gently pour it over the milk. The espresso will create a layered effect, with the coffee settling between the milk and foam.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
A latte macchiato is best served in a clear glass to showcase the beautiful layers of espresso and milk.
Macchiato Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic macchiato, experiment with these variations for a unique twist:
Caramel Macchiato – Drizzle caramel syrup into the milk before adding espresso.
Vanilla Macchiato – Add ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet flavor.
Hazelnut Macchiato – Stir in hazelnut syrup for a nutty twist.
Iced Macchiato – Pour cold milk over ice, then add a shot of espresso for a refreshing drink.
Macchiato vs. Latte vs. Cappuccino: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse macchiatos with lattes and cappuccinos, but each drink has a distinct style and flavor profile.
- Macchiato – Espresso with just a touch of milk foam, keeping the coffee flavor strong.
- Latte – Espresso with a large amount of steamed milk, making it much creamier.
- Cappuccino – Espresso with equal parts steamed milk and thick foam, creating a balanced but frothy drink.
If you enjoy a bold espresso taste with just a hint of milk, the macchiato is the perfect choice!
Pro Tips for the Best Macchiato at Home
For the best macchiato, use freshly ground coffee beans to ensure a rich, bold espresso flavor. If you prefer a stronger taste, use less milk in your espresso macchiato. To create perfect milk foam, use whole milk or barista-style plant-based milk. If making a latte macchiato, pour the espresso slowly to achieve beautiful layers.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Homemade Macchiato!
A macchiato is a simple yet sophisticated coffee drink that brings out the rich flavors of espresso with just a touch of milk. Whether you prefer the classic espresso macchiato or the layered latte macchiato, making it at home allows you to customize it exactly to your taste.
Do you prefer a strong espresso macchiato or a creamy latte macchiato? Let me know in the comments! ☕😊