Macchiato

Ingredients

Description

The Caffè Macchiato is a simple yet elegant drink, consisting of a shot of espresso “marked” or “stained” with a small quantity of milk foam. This touch of milk adds a layer of complexity, softening the espresso’s intensity without overpowering its rich flavor.

Fun Fact

The name “Macchiato” (Italian for “stained” or “marked”) was coined to help baristas differentiate between a plain espresso and one with a drop of milk, for orders waiting to be served.

Preparation Recipe

• 1 shot of espresso (30 ml)
• 5–10 ml of milk foam
• Served in a 60-90ml demitasse cup

Preparation Techniques

• Use a high-quality, finely-ground coffee for the espresso base.
• The milk should be steamed to create a velvety microfoam, not just hot milk.
• The ratio is key: the milk is an accent, not a primary ingredient like in a latte or cappuccino.