Coffee and milk - an unbeatable duo

Lattes are an integral part of coffee culture. They stand for comfort, enjoyment and the perfect start to the day.

Especially in Switzerland, Italian coffee recipes dominate, from small to large, from classic to modern, there is something for every taste. But what makes the individual coffee specialties with milk so special and how can they be prepared perfectly? Whether it's a finely layered latte macchiato, creamy cappuccino or intense flat white - in this blog post, we explain the most popular varieties at a glance.

Espresso Macchiato - The little spotted one

The espresso macchiato is a coffee drink that is served in an espresso cup and contains a maximum of 100 ml. It combines a strong, freshly roasted espresso with a small dollop of creamy milk foam. It is best prepared using a fully automatic coffee machine, which extracts the espresso freshly at the touch of a button and froths the hot milk to perfection. Despite its small size, the espresso macchiato remains a highly prized choice for lovers of intense coffee moments.

Espresso macchiato on wooden floor with black background

Flat white on wood with black background

Flat White - The modern alternative

The flat white, a newer creation from Australia and New Zealand, has won the hearts of coffee fans around the world in recent decades. At 150 to 200 ml, it contains the same amount as a cappuccino, but contains twice as much espresso or ristretto and less foam. As a result, the taste remains more intense, but the consistency is creamy and pleasant.

Preparing a flat white requires precise technique so that the hot milk is only slightly frothed. The specialty is particularly appreciated when the beans are dark roasted, as this brings out the aromatic notes of the coffee.

Caffè Latte - The companion for breakfast

Caffè latte, literally "coffee with milk", is a typical Italian specialty that is mainly drunk at breakfast. With a ratio of equal parts espresso and hot milk, it has a particularly milky taste that is rounded off with just a hint of foam. Traditionally, the caffè latte is served in a large 200 to 300 ml cup and is perfect for dipping cookies into.

It should not, however, be confused with the Swiss-style cup - a mixture of café crème and milk. Both drinks may seem similar at first glance, but they taste fundamentally different.

Caffè Latte on wood with black background

Cappuccino on wood with black background

Cappuccino - a classic with a history

The cappuccino is probably the best-known latte specialty and is served in a 150 to 200 ml cup. Its preparation begins with a strong espresso, which is finished with hot milk and a 1-2 cm thick layer of creamy milk foam. The original inspiration for the cappuccino comes from the Viennese Melange, a mocha with liquid whipped cream. Austrian soldiers stationed in Italy wanted to continue enjoying their usual Kapuziner - and so the cappuccino as we know it today was born.

Contrary to the assumption that the name "cappuccino" comes from the pointed cap of the frothy cap, the Italian cappuccino is characterized by its fine-pored, almost liquid foam. Important when preparing it: the milk should not be heated above 70 °C in order to preserve its creamy taste. With or without latte art - a well-made cappuccino remains a real treat and is one of the most popular coffee drinks in the world.

Latte macchiato - coffee and milk in layers

The latte macchiato, which is typically served in a tall glass, is visually appealing and mild in taste. Preparation requires a little patience to ensure that the characteristic layers of milk, espresso and foam turn out perfectly. The different densities and temperatures create the typical layering: first the frothed milk is poured into the glass, then allowed to set briefly before the espresso is added.

In Italy, the latte macchiato is considered a children's drink to slowly introduce the youngest to the taste of coffee. If you want to enjoy it cold, simply leave the espresso to cool and use the milk cold.

Latte macchiato on wood with black background

A treat for every taste

From small to large, from mild to strong - latte drinks offer an impressive variety. Whether you prepare them with a fully automatic coffee machine or traditionally by hand, the result should always be fresh and perfectly balanced. Drink your way through the different variations and discover your personal favorite specialty. Because whether it's a classic cappuccino, creamy caffè latte or modern flat white - coffee and milk remain an unbeatable duo.

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