What Is a Latte Coffee? A Complete Guide to This Classic Drink
Share
Here’s a fully optimized /en-us rewrite of your latte article, converted from UK → USA English, with:
-
Semrush semantics naturally integrated
-
Clear explanations for People Also Ask queries
-
Relevant internal links added (products + blogs)
-
US café terminology and measurements
-
SEO-ready structure for snippets and comparisons
What Is a Latte Coffee? A Complete Guide to This Classic Drink
If you’ve ever ordered coffee at a coffee shop, you’ve almost certainly seen a latte on the menu — but what is a latte coffee, exactly? Whether you’re new to espresso drinks or just want a clear explanation, this guide covers everything you need to know about what a latte is, how it’s made, and how it compares to other popular coffee drinks.
⭐ What Is a Latte Coffee?
A latte coffee (short for caffè latte, meaning “coffee and milk” in Italian) is an espresso-based coffee drink made with:
-
1–2 shots of espresso
-
Steamed milk
-
A thin, light layer of foam on top
It’s one of the most popular milky coffee drinks in the world, known for its smooth texture and mild coffee flavor. Because it contains more milk than most espresso drinks, a latte is especially approachable for people who prefer a softer, less intense taste.
For home brewing, choose a smooth, balanced coffee bean such as:
What Does a Latte Taste Like?
A latte is known for being:
-
Creamy and smooth
-
Mild and well balanced
-
Less bitter than stronger espresso drinks
-
Gently coffee-forward rather than intense
The larger amount of steamed milk softens the espresso, making lattes ideal for anyone who enjoys a comforting, easy-drinking coffee experience.
How Is a Latte Made?
A classic latte is made using espresso machines in cafés, but it can also be prepared at home with the right tools.
Ingredients
-
1–2 shots of espresso
-
7–10 oz (200–300 ml) steamed milk
-
A thin layer of foamed milk (about ¼–½ inch)
Method
-
Brew your espresso using an espresso machine.
-
Steam the milk until silky, incorporating a small amount of air with a milk frother.
-
Pour the steamed milk over the espresso.
-
Finish with a light layer of foam on top.
Optional flavor additions include vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or cinnamon.
For rich espresso at home, try:
Latte vs Flat White vs Cappuccino
These drinks are often confused, but the milk ratio and foam make each one distinct.
| Drink | Milk Ratio | Foam | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latte | Mostly steamed milk | Thin foam | Mild |
| Flat White | Less milk | Velvety microfoam | Stronger |
| Cappuccino | Equal parts milk, foam & espresso | Thick foam | Medium–strong |
A latte is the creamiest and lightest of the three.
For deeper comparisons, see:
Popular Latte Variations
☕ Flavored Latte
Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or cinnamon syrups are commonly added.
☕ Iced Latte
Espresso poured over cold milk and ice — smooth, refreshing, and popular year-round.
☕ Mocha Latte
A latte with chocolate added for a dessert-style drink.
Pairs well with:
☕ Oat or Almond Milk Latte
A dairy-free favorite with a lighter texture and subtle sweetness.
Is a Latte High in Calories?
A latte contains more calories than drip coffee, an Americano, or black coffee because of the milk content. The exact number depends on:
-
Milk type (whole, skim, oat, almond)
-
Cup size
-
Added flavors or sweeteners
For nutrition-focused reading, see:
Best Coffees for Making a Latte at Home
For a latte with great body and balance, these coffees work especially well:
Related Reading
Conclusion: What Is a Latte Coffee?
A latte coffee is a smooth, creamy espresso drink made with steamed milk and a light topping of foam. Mild, versatile, and endlessly customizable, it’s one of the most popular coffee drinks worldwide — perfect for anyone who prefers a softer, milk-forward coffee flavor.