Caffè Macchiato, commonly called an espresso macchiato, is a classic Italian coffee drink that pairs bold espresso with just a touch of milk for a perfectly balanced cup.
The macchiato delivers espresso’s concentrated flavor softened by a small amount of steamed and frothed milk. Its simplicity highlights the coffee itself, making it an ideal choice for anyone who loves a strong but slightly mellowed espresso experience.
What is Macchiato?
Caffè macchiato literally means “stained” or “marked” coffee. Traditionally, it is an espresso “marked” with a small amount of milk foam. This subtle addition softens the espresso just enough to round out the flavor without turning the drink into a latte.
Why Make Your Own Macchiato?
- Control and customization: Making your own macchiato lets you choose the beans, adjust espresso-to-milk ratio, and fine-tune strength and texture to your taste.
- Save money: Brewing at home is more economical than buying coffee out frequently while still giving you a high-quality cup.
- Creative freedom: Try different beans, milk types, or subtle flavorings. A splash of hazelnut creamer, for example, can give a pleasant twist without overpowering the espresso.
How To Make Caffè Macchiato
Ingredients
- Freshly roasted coffee beans
- Water
- Whole milk: steams and froths well due to its higher fat content
Directions
- Brew 2 to 4 shots of espresso, depending on how strong you like it. Use an espresso machine when possible; alternatives include an AeroPress, French press, or instant espresso prepared according to package directions.
- Steam or heat milk to about 160°F (71°C). Hold the steam wand or frother just below the surface to create a small amount of microfoam.
- Divide the espresso between cups, add a small amount of steamed milk to each, spoon a dollop of foam on top, and serve immediately.
Recipe Tips
- Choose quality beans: Freshly roasted whole beans deliver the clearest, most vibrant espresso flavor.
- Milk temperature: Heat milk to roughly 160°F for the best sweetness and texture—avoid boiling.
- No espresso machine? Use instant espresso or an AeroPress, warm the milk gently on the stove, and froth after heating.
- Frother options: A handheld frother works well; a dedicated electric frother or a machine with a steam wand makes foaming easier and more consistent.
- Adjust to taste: Start with a higher espresso-to-milk ratio and alter it to your preference—macchiatos are meant to emphasize espresso.
More Homemade Coffee Drinks
- Mocha Iced Coffee
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew Coffee
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5 from 3 votes
Caffè Macchiato
by Katerina | Easy Weeknight Recipes
Caffè Macchiato is an Italian coffee beverage made with espresso and a small amount of milk.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients
- 2 to 4 shots brewed espresso
- ¼ cup whole milk
Instructions
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Split the brewed espresso shots between two cups.
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Steam or gently heat milk to about 160°F (71°C) and create microfoam by holding the wand or frother just below the surface.
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Pour a small amount of steamed milk into each espresso cup.
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Top with a spoonful of foam and serve immediately.
Equipment
-
Espresso machine
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Milk frother or steam wand
Notes
- No espresso machine? Use instant espresso granules, AeroPress, or French press. Warm milk on the stove without boiling, then froth once it reaches about 160°F (71°C).
- Frother recommendation: A combined steamer/frother or a dedicated electric frother produces consistent foam if your machine lacks a wand.
- Whole milk: Produces richer foam thanks to higher fat content, but you can experiment with other milk types for different textures and flavors.
- Fresh beans: Using recently roasted beans enhances aroma and flavor—if possible, grind just before brewing.
- Espresso-forward: Macchiatos emphasize espresso over milk. The goal is to soften the espresso slightly without creating a milky drink like a latte.
Nutrition
Calories: 21kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation. Use a nutrition calculator for precise values if needed.
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