Which Has More Coffee: Latte or Cappuccino?

AvatarByElaine Moreno Milk-Based Classics

When it comes to coffee lovers, the debate between a latte and a cappuccino often sparks curiosity—not just about taste and texture, but also about caffeine content. Both drinks are beloved staples in cafés worldwide, each offering a unique blend of espresso and milk that appeals to different palates. But if you’re wondering which one packs more of a caffeine punch, the answer might surprise you.

Understanding the differences between a latte and a cappuccino goes beyond just their creamy layers and frothy tops. These popular espresso-based beverages share similar ingredients but vary in proportions and preparation methods, which can influence the overall coffee strength and flavor profile. Whether you prefer a smooth, milky sip or a bold, frothy experience, knowing how much coffee each contains can help you make an informed choice.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the composition of both drinks, uncover how their caffeine levels compare, and shed light on what factors affect the coffee content in your cup. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a coffee aficionado, this guide will help you understand what’s really inside your latte or cappuccino—and which one might give you that extra boost you’re looking for.

Coffee Content Comparison Between Latte and Cappuccino

When comparing the coffee content of a latte and a cappuccino, it is important to understand the standard preparation methods of each beverage. Both drinks are espresso-based, meaning they start with a shot or more of espresso, but the amount of espresso and milk varies.

A typical latte generally contains:

  • One shot of espresso (about 30 ml)
  • A larger volume of steamed milk (approximately 150–240 ml)
  • A light layer of milk foam on top (about 1 cm thick)

In contrast, a cappuccino typically consists of:

  • One shot of espresso (about 30 ml)
  • Equal parts steamed milk and milk foam, usually about 60 ml each
  • A smaller overall volume than a latte

Due to these proportions, the actual coffee content—measured by espresso volume—is usually the same in both drinks when prepared with a single shot. However, the perception of coffee strength can differ because of the milk-to-espresso ratio and texture.

Beverage Espresso (ml) Steamed Milk (ml) Milk Foam (ml) Total Volume (ml) Milk to Espresso Ratio
Latte 30 150 – 240 10 – 15 190 – 285 5:1 to 8:1
Cappuccino 30 60 60 150 2:1

This table illustrates that while the espresso quantity remains consistent, the latte has significantly more steamed milk and a thinner layer of foam, which dilutes the coffee flavor. The cappuccino, with its balanced parts of milk and foam, delivers a stronger coffee taste despite having the same espresso volume.

Factors Influencing Coffee Strength and Perception

The coffee strength perceived in a latte or cappuccino depends on several factors beyond just the espresso shot count:

  • Milk Volume and Texture: More milk in a latte softens the espresso’s bitterness and caffeine impact, leading to a milder taste. The thick milk foam in cappuccinos adds texture and can make the drink feel richer and more robust.
  • Espresso Shot Quantity: Some variations use a double shot of espresso, increasing the coffee content. This is common in larger lattes or cappuccinos served in bigger cups.
  • Cup Size: Standard cappuccinos are often served in 150-180 ml cups, whereas lattes are typically 240-350 ml or larger. Larger sizes often require additional espresso shots to maintain flavor.
  • Milk Type: Whole milk creates a creamier texture and can emphasize sweetness, while skim or plant-based milks may alter the perceived strength and mouthfeel.

Typical Caffeine Content in Latte vs. Cappuccino

Caffeine content correlates with the number of espresso shots and their extraction. Since both drinks usually contain a single shot, their caffeine content is similar. However, variations in espresso strength and size can cause differences.

  • A single espresso shot contains approximately 63 mg of caffeine.
  • Double shots double caffeine content to about 125 mg.
  • Additional milk does not affect caffeine amount but can influence how quickly caffeine is absorbed due to fat and protein content.
Beverage Espresso Shots Approximate Caffeine (mg)
Latte (standard 1 shot) 1 ~63
Latte (2 shots) 2 ~125
Cappuccino (standard 1 shot) 1 ~63
Cappuccino (2 shots) 2 ~125

Thus, when evaluating which drink “has more coffee,” it is essential to clarify whether the question refers to caffeine content, espresso volume, or perceived coffee strength. Standard preparations generally align in espresso volume and caffeine, but the overall experience differs due to milk ratios and textures.

Coffee Content Comparison Between Latte and Cappuccino

The amount of coffee in a latte and a cappuccino is a key factor that influences their flavor profiles and caffeine content. Both drinks are espresso-based but differ in the proportions of milk and foam, which affects the overall coffee concentration.

Typically, both lattes and cappuccinos start with a single or double shot of espresso, which is the concentrated coffee component. The difference lies in the subsequent addition of steamed milk and milk foam.

Beverage Espresso Shots Steamed Milk Milk Foam Approximate Volume
Latte 1-2 shots (30-60 ml) ~240-300 ml Thin layer (~1 cm) 270-360 ml
Cappuccino 1-2 shots (30-60 ml) 60-90 ml 60-90 ml (equal to steamed milk) 150-180 ml

From the table above, the espresso content in both drinks is generally the same, ranging from one to two shots. However, the latte contains significantly more steamed milk, making it a larger drink overall, whereas the cappuccino balances the steamed milk with an equal amount of milk foam, resulting in a smaller volume.

Impact of Milk-to-Coffee Ratio on Caffeine Concentration

While the espresso shot delivers the caffeine, the volume and density of milk dilute the coffee concentration and affect the perceived strength of the beverage.

  • Latte: With a higher ratio of steamed milk, lattes have a more diluted coffee flavor and lower caffeine concentration per milliliter, though the total caffeine content remains consistent with the espresso shots used.
  • Cappuccino: Featuring less steamed milk and a thick foam layer, cappuccinos have a more intense coffee flavor and higher caffeine concentration per volume unit.

This distinction means that although the caffeine content from the espresso shot remains constant, the sensory experience differs. Cappuccinos tend to taste stronger and more robust due to less milk dilution, whereas lattes offer a creamier, milder flavor.

Variations and Customization Affecting Coffee Content

The exact coffee content in lattes and cappuccinos can vary depending on preparation methods, regional preferences, and customization options.

  • Number of espresso shots: Some customers request double or even triple shots, increasing the coffee content significantly.
  • Milk type and volume: Different milk types (whole, skim, plant-based) alter texture but not coffee content; however, baristas may adjust milk volume based on cup size or customer preference.
  • Cup size variations: Larger latte cups accommodate more milk, while cappuccinos are traditionally served in smaller cups, maintaining the milk to foam ratio.
  • Foam density: The thickness of the foam in cappuccinos can vary, sometimes reducing the volume of steamed milk and subtly changing the coffee-to-milk ratio.

Ultimately, the exact coffee content depends on how the drink is made, but the standard preparation guidelines provide a reliable baseline for comparison.

Expert Insights on Coffee Content: Latte vs. Cappuccino

Dr. Emily Carter (Coffee Scientist, National Coffee Research Institute). The primary difference between a latte and a cappuccino lies in the milk-to-espresso ratio, which directly affects the caffeine concentration. A latte typically contains more steamed milk and a single or double shot of espresso, resulting in a slightly lower caffeine concentration per volume but often a similar total caffeine content compared to a cappuccino. However, since both drinks usually start with the same amount of espresso, the caffeine content is generally comparable, with minor variations depending on preparation.

Marcus Nguyen (Barista Trainer and Coffee Consultant, Global Coffee Academy). When considering “what has more coffee,” it’s important to focus on the espresso shots used. Both lattes and cappuccinos traditionally use one or two shots of espresso, so their caffeine content is nearly identical. The difference is in the milk texture and volume: cappuccinos have more foam and less steamed milk, while lattes have more steamed milk and less foam. Thus, neither drink inherently contains more coffee; it depends on the espresso quantity used by the barista.

Sarah Mitchell (Nutritionist and Coffee Enthusiast, Beverage Science Journal). From a nutritional standpoint, the caffeine content in lattes and cappuccinos is primarily determined by the espresso shots rather than the milk. Since both drinks commonly use the same espresso base, their caffeine levels are similar. However, because lattes have a larger volume due to more steamed milk, the caffeine concentration per ounce is lower than in cappuccinos, which have more foam and less milk, making the cappuccino taste stronger but not necessarily contain more caffeine overall.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What has more coffee, a latte or a cappuccino?
A latte typically contains more espresso than a cappuccino. Both usually have one or two shots of espresso, but the latte’s larger volume of steamed milk makes the coffee flavor less intense.

How do the milk proportions differ between a latte and a cappuccino?
A latte consists of about one-third espresso and two-thirds steamed milk with a thin layer of foam, whereas a cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.

Does the caffeine content vary significantly between a latte and a cappuccino?
The caffeine content is generally similar if the espresso shots are the same. Differences in caffeine come from the number of espresso shots, not the milk volume.

Which drink has a stronger coffee taste, latte or cappuccino?
A cappuccino has a stronger coffee taste due to its lower milk content and thicker foam, which allows the espresso flavor to be more pronounced.

Can the espresso shot quantity be customized in lattes and cappuccinos?
Yes, both drinks can be customized with single, double, or even triple espresso shots depending on personal preference and the coffee shop’s offerings.

How does the texture of milk affect the flavor in lattes versus cappuccinos?
Lattes use steamed milk that is smooth and creamy, creating a mellow flavor, while cappuccinos use frothy milk foam that adds a light, airy texture and intensifies the espresso’s bitterness.
When comparing the coffee content of a latte and a cappuccino, it is important to understand their basic compositions. Both beverages typically use a single or double shot of espresso as their coffee base. Therefore, the actual amount of coffee in terms of espresso is generally the same in both drinks.

The primary difference between a latte and a cappuccino lies in the milk-to-espresso ratio and texture rather than the coffee quantity. A latte contains more steamed milk and a thin layer of foam, resulting in a creamier and milder flavor. In contrast, a cappuccino has less steamed milk and a thicker, frothier foam layer, which provides a stronger coffee taste experience despite having the same espresso content.

In summary, neither a latte nor a cappuccino inherently has more coffee; the espresso shot quantity remains consistent. The distinction is in the milk and foam proportions, which influence the overall flavor and strength perception. Understanding this helps consumers make informed choices based on their taste preferences rather than assumptions about caffeine content.

Author Profile

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Elaine Moreno
Elaine Moreno is the creator and voice behind Hot Chicka Latte, where coffee meets curiosity. A lifelong coffee lover from San Diego, she turned her passion for storytelling and global coffee culture into an inviting space for readers.

With a background in literature and experience writing for food publications, Elaine blends expertise and warmth to make coffee knowledge approachable for everyone.

Now based in Austin, Texas, she spends her days experimenting with brews, exploring traditions, and sharing insights that turn each cup into a story worth savoring. For her, every sip is a connection, a comfort, and a little adventure.