Latte vs. Coffee - Choose Your Perfect Cup

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Latte vs. Coffee - Choose Your Perfect Cup


Coffee is coffee, whether plain and


simple black coffee


or a latte, right? Well, if everything were meant to be so straightforward, then we wouldn't have had a plethora of


coffee-based beverages


to feast upon. Like any other


coffee-based drink


, there is a remarkable difference between coffee and Latte.

Coffee enthusiasts often find themselves in the Latte vs. Coffee dilemma when choosing the superior beverage. Surprisingly, the two have stark differences that influence your overall coffee experience. In this blog, we will dissect the finer nuances, helping you understand which brew aligns better with your preferences. This comprehensive guide will help you make a choice between coffee vs. Latte simpler for you, so may the best drink win.

What is coffee?

Coffee is a concoction derived from


roasted coffee beans


. These beans undergo the grinding process before being brewed with hot water to extract the desired flavor and consistency. This versatile decoction is then used to create various forms of beverages like


cappuccino


, Latte, or coffee espresso. Cold brew offers a refreshing alternative for people who like their drinks cold. Each type of coffee boasts its distinct flavor profile and strength, providing a delightful array of choices for coffee enthusiasts.

How to make coffee?



Using a Coffee Maker:

  1. Place a filter filled with ground coffee in the coffee maker basket.
  2. Ensure the water reservoir is filled.
  3. Plug in and turn on the coffee maker to heat up the water.
  4. Water flows from the reservoir into the coffee basket, absorbing coffee flavor.
  5. The brewed coffee drips into the carafe.

Without a Coffee Maker (Pour Over Drip Coffee):

  1. Gather a dripper, filter, and carafe (Chemex recommended).
  2. Boil around 20oz of water.
  3. Prepare at least 30g of ground coffee.
  4. Place a filter in the dripper, wetting it if required per the manufacturer's instructions.
  5. Add ground coffee to the filter basket.
  6. Pour hot water steadily over the grounds, creating spirals for even soaking.
  7. Allow the water to drip through into the carafe.

What is Latte?



A latte


, originating from the Italian term "milk with coffee" or "caffè e latte," is a popular espresso-based drink in coffee bars worldwide. Composed of a balanced mix of steamed milk, espresso, and a thin layer of foam, the classic ratio is often 1:1:1.
So is Latte a coffee? The answer is yes! This delightful beverage provides a smooth and creamy texture, making it a favorite for coffee enthusiasts.

How to make Latte?


  • Pour milk into a jug, filling it until it aligns with the beginning of the jug's spout.
  • Heat the milk using the wand steamer of your coffee machine while simultaneously preparing your espresso shot with an espresso machine or similar device.
  • Continue heating the milk for 30 to 45 seconds until it reaches a temperature of 130 to 140℉.
  • Allow the milk to settle as you pull your espresso shot, allowing the foam to thicken.
  • Once the espresso is ready, add a small amount into the milk to prevent bitterness, or slowly pour the milk into your cup with the espresso.
  • Take your time with the process, allowing the frothed milk to enter your espresso cup smoothly.
  • Ensure the foamy part is the last to leave the jug. Use a spoon or utensil to pour the foam on top of the milk in your mug or cup if needed.

What is the difference between coffee and Latte?


Key Differences Between Latte vs Coffee


Taste:


  • Latte:

    Offers a smoother taste, which can be attributed to the use of steamed milk, resulting in a milder flavor due to added cream and sugar.

  • Coffee:

    Boasts a more robust flavor with distinctive notes favored by many coffee enthusiasts.

Coffee vs. Latte caffeine:

Generally, lattes have less


caffeine


than regular brewed coffee ounce for ounce. Here's the breakdown

  • Lattes:

    A typical latte is made with one shot of espresso (around 75mg caffeine) and steamed milk and foam. So, an 8-ounce latte would have roughly 63mg of caffeine.

  • Coffee:

    An 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee can have anywhere from 95mg to 220mg of caffeine, depending on the roast and brewing method.
    .

Preparation:

  • Latte


    Crafted with steamed milk and espresso. It requires more time to prepare compared to the versatile brewing methods of regular coffee.

Is a latte stronger than coffee?

Lattes, in general, are considered milder compared to black coffee due to the inclusion of elements like milk and sugar. Although espresso, a key component in lattes, carries a robust caffeine punch, adding steamed milk and cream dilutes its strength. This also answers the question does Latte have caffeine? This characteristic makes lattes suitable for individuals seeking the coffee experience with a reduced caffeine impact. If you appreciate a gentler coffee profile or wish to savor a cup with a less intense caffeine boost, lattes offer a balanced and flavorful alternative.

Conclusion

Choosing between coffee or Latte depends on your beverage preferences. Traditional coffee might be your best bet if you prefer a simple drink. However, a latte could be ideal if you're in the mood for a more intricate and engaging experience. The decision boils down to your personal taste, and there's no right or wrong answer. Explore both options to find the one that suits your palate and satisfies your coffee cravings with MOKAFÉ's premium selection of


specialty coffee beans


from the rich coffee regions of


Yemen


and


Guatemala


. These beans are meticulously handpicked and sourced directly from small, traditional coffee farms. They present diverse flavor notes, enticing aromas, and delightful textures in every cup. So pick your favorite beans and work the magic of creating your favorite drink, whether Latte or coffee.

More From Jorge Armando Ciciliani


About The Author: Jorge Armando Ciciliani


Jorge is a seasoned coffee professional with a lifelong passion for all things coffee. For over a decade, he has fervently immersed himself in the world of coffee, mastering its preparation, understanding its societal impact, and uncovering its cultural significance. Starting as a barista at the young age of 15 and later managing a coffee roastery, this journey led him to work as a quality control manager for a green coffee importer.
Traveling across countries in Central and North America, Jorge has explored various coffee traditions and honed his skills through Specialty Coffee Association courses. As a QC Cupping coffee connoisseur and sensory skills enthusiast, Jorge is a true expert in the art of brewing and savoring the perfect cup. Consider him your trusted Fika expert.
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