The macchiato is a favorite drink among coffee connoisseurs. But if you’re new to coffee or are simply looking to broaden your tastes, you may not be familiar with this delicious drink. So, what exactly is a macchiato?
The macchiato (also known as espresso macchiato or caffè macchiato) is a shot of espresso with a dash of steamed milk or foam. The espresso is typically made and poured first, and then the drink is topped with steamed milk for a touch of creaminess.
Those are the basics of the macchiato, but there’s a lot more to know about the drink. Let’s take a closer look at how the macchiato is made, the different kinds you might encounter, and how to order one at your favorite coffee shop.
What Is the Process of Making a Macchiato?

The macchiato, which is also known as an espresso macchiato or a caffè macchiato, is basically an espresso with a dash of steamed milk or foam.
The macchiato is therefore predominantly an espresso drink, but it provides an alternative to the classic espresso with the addition of milk.
Macchiatos are all about the ratio of espresso to milk; after all, you might end up with a latte or a cappuccino if you pour too much milk!
The Different Kinds of Macchiatos
If you do a quick Google search, you’ll come across different types of macchiatos like the Mocha Macchiato or the latte macchiato.
The drinks aren’t all the same; each one has a different taste, consistency, and recipe.
Traditional Espresso Macchiatos
The term ‘espresso macchiato’ refers to the traditional Italian recipe. Macchiato is an Italian name meaning marked, stained, or spotted, which fits the drink’s appearance.
Traditional espresso macchiatos are espresso coffee with a few drops of foamed or steamed milk on top.
Starbucks Mocha Macchiato
You can find macchiato variations at popular coffee chains, like the Starbucks Mocha Macchiato. This is an iced drink that contains one shot of espresso, two pumps of mocha syrup, and 2% frothed milk on top. It can also be finished with a few dollops of chocolate.
The Starbucks Mocha Macchiato isn’t a traditional Italian macchiato, as it’s sweetened, iced, and can contain more caffeine.
Latte Macchiato
Another variation of the drink is the latte macchiato. The latte macchiato starts with a lot of milk, followed by a shot of espresso.
The drink has three distinct layers due to the pouring technique, as you pour the espresso into the milk very slowly.
This type of macchiato has a creamier taste and consistency.
How Is a Macchiato Different From a Cappuccino?
If you’re familiar with a cappuccino, you might be wondering how it differs from the macchiato. After all, they both contain espresso, milk, and foam.
The difference between a macchiato and a cappuccino lies in the different quantities of ingredients.
Traditional cappuccinos have an even amount of espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. The cappuccino usually has around four to five ounces of foam.
The macchiato, meanwhile, only contains a dash of milk or foam on top, giving it a spotted appearance. Macchiatos are typically stronger than cappuccinos, as they have less milk and more espresso.
What Is the Coffee-to-Milk Ratio of a Macchiato?
The coffee-to-milk ratio of a macchiato will vary depending on your preferences or those of the barista. Some recipes call for two parts espresso and one part milk. Other recipes may include just a dash of milk — or roughly 90% espresso and 10% milk.
Although the recipes vary, the espresso is the primary ingredient, while the milk adds additional creaminess and flavor. Less milk is more typical with a macchiato, since too much can create a latte or cappuccino.
Can You Make a Macchiato With Regular Coffee?
Unfortunately, it’s not advised to use regular coffee for a macchiato, as you’ll lose out on potency and flavor. The base of a macchiato is espresso, and it’s the primary ingredient, meaning you’ll make a completely different drink if you use regular coffee.
Instead, look for dark, bitter espresso roast coffee beans when making macchiatos at home for the best results. One of our favorites is this medium dark roast from FORTE (on Amazon).
Tips for Ordering a Macchiato

As most of you know, ordering a drink at a coffee shop can be confusing — and a bit nerve-wracking if you aren’t sure what terminology to use.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a few different tips you can use for ordering a macchiato at your favorite coffee shop. Here’s what you need to know:
Order an Espresso Macchiato at Coffee Chains
Generally speaking, most coffee shops know how to make traditional macchiatos. However, if you’re at a chain coffee shop like Starbucks, order an “Espresso Macchiato” to ensure you get what you’re looking for.
Specify Your Milk Choice
Additionally, you can specify your preferred type of milk when ordering a traditional macchiato.
Most coffee shops use dairy milk, but you can also opt for almond, oat, or soy, depending on what’s available. However, these kinds of milk will provide a different taste and consistency.
For example, oat milk doesn’t offer a long-lasting foam compared to whole milk. Almond milk produces a richer foam that’s sweet in texture, while soy milk creates foam that’s creamy and dense. The choice comes down to your preferences and diet.
Try Added Flavors and Sweeteners
You can spice up a traditional macchiato with additional flavors and sweeteners. You might add caramel, mocha, or hazelnut. Added syrups and sweeteners can add variety to your drink, which is useful if you prefer a light espresso flavor.
Say “caramel macchiato” or “mocha macchiato” to order a macchiato with added syrup. Be sure to specify your milk of choice or allergies if applicable.
Try a One and One
For something more unique, order a “One and One.” A One and One is a double shot of espresso split between two glasses. One of the glasses is plain espresso, while the other is a traditional macchiato.
One and Ones allow you to compare the taste of espresso with and without milk. However, not all coffee shops accept this order, and your mileage will vary.
Order a Double Shot for an Added Boost
Although it’s less common in Italy, you can always order a macchiato with a double shot of espresso at your local coffee shop or chain. You’ll receive a larger glass, and your drink will be more potent than a standard recipe.
A double shot of espresso can contain anywhere between 120 mg and 150 mg of caffeine, making it a powerful drink.
Are You Ready to Order a Macchiato?
The traditional macchiato is a single shot of espresso with a dash of steamed or foamed milk on top. Recipes can vary, but it’s typically two parts espresso to one part milk, or 90% espresso and 10% milk. The drink offers a rich, flavorful espresso flavor with an added creamy consistency from the milk.
If you’re ready to try a macchiato, order a “Caffè Macchiato” or “Espresso Macchiato” at your local coffee shop or chain. Or, if you’re feeling up to the task, try brewing your own espresso macchiato at home.