What is in a Cappuccino? Your Go-to Guide to the Perfect Cup
Few coffee lovers can resist a delicious cup of cappuccino. Creamy, balanced, and smooth, it’s the perfect pick-me-up any time of the day.
If you’re craving a cappuccino, you don’t have to put on your adult pants and drive to a cafe. You can make a fantastic cup right in the comfort of your home.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about cappuccinos, including what is in a cappuccino and how to make an irresistible cup at home.
Layers of a Cappuccino
A cappuccino has three basic layers: the espresso, the steamed milk, and the foam. For a traditional cappuccino, the ratio is roughly ⅓ espresso, ⅓ steamed milk, and ⅓ foam.
- Espresso (base): Espresso is concentrated coffee brewed under high pressure. It provides a rich, bold flavor and serves as the drink’s foundation. Those who don’t own an espresso machine can substitute strong coffee from a Moka pot, AeroPress, or French press, though it doesn’t offer the same intensity as espresso.
- Steamed Milk (second layer): Steamed milk is made by heating milk with a steam wand to create a velvety, slightly thickened texture. Steamed milk adds creaminess and helps balance the strong flavor of the espresso.
- Foam (top layer): Foam in cappuccino is made by aerating the milk with steam to introduce air, resulting in a light, airy texture with a fluffy mouth feel.
How to Make the Perfect Cup of Cappuccino
Follow this step-by-step guide to brew a smooth, creamy cappuccino right in your kitchen. If you don’t have all the proper equipment, don’t worry. Substitutions are included.
Step 1: Make the Espresso
To make the perfect cappuccino, you’ll first need to make espresso using an espresso machine. Depending on your preference, you can use either one shot (30 ml) or two shots (60 ml) of espresso.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can brew highly concentrated coffee in an AeroPress, Moka pot, or French press.
A Moka pot produces the closest result to espresso, while AeroPress can create a bold and rich coffee. If using a French press, use a higher coffee-to-water ratio to achieve a stronger flavor.
Step 2: Steam the Milk
There are two ways to steam milk for cappuccino: by using a steam wand or heating milk over a saucepan and whipping it with an electric mixer.
To use a steam wand, submerge the frother all the way into the cold milk, then slowly lower the pitcher until you hear a shushing sound. Aerate the milk for 6 to 8 seconds, then swirl the milk in the pitcher to break large bubbles and create a smooth, velvety texture.
The second method is to heat a cup of milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Let the milk simmer for about 5 minutes or until bubbles form around the edges. You don’t want to boil the milk because that will prevent it from thickening properly.
Remove the pan from the stove and whip the milk with an electric mixer until it begins to thicken. This will take about 30 seconds.
If you don’t have a mixer, transfer the warm milk into a jar, close the lid, and shake it vigorously for the same amount of time.
Step 3: Assemble
Pour the espresso in a glass, then gently pour the steamed milk over the espresso in a steady, circular motion. Use a spoon to scoop the remaining milk foam and place it on top of the cappuccino to create that signature frothy layer.
Remember, your espresso to milk to foam ratio should be the same across the board. And that’s it. Serve right away. Add sprinkle of cocoa powder or drizzle of caramel four some pizzazz!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a cappuccino and a latte?
A cappuccino and a latte have the same base layers: espresso, steamed milk, and foamed milk. The difference is how these layers are distributed. While cappuccino has equal amounts of espresso, steamed milk, and froth (1:1:1), a latte has more steamed milk than coffee, usually at a ratio of 3:1 or 2:1. It also has a thin layer of foam, typically around 5 mm (¼ inch) thick.
What’s the difference between a cappuccino and a macchiato?
A macchiato is the opposite of a latte. It has the highest ratio of espresso to milk, usually at 4:1 to 9:1, which makes it taste bolder than cappuccinos. It’s traditionally made by combining a shot of espresso with a splash of milk.
Can you make cappuccino with non-dairy milk?
Those who are lactose intolerant or have dietary restrictions can still enjoy a cup of cappuccino. Instead of cow’s milk, you can easily replace it with plant-based milk like almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. These alternatives can be frothed like regular milk.
