Americano vs. Latte: The Difference and How to Make Each
Ever get stuck ordering the same thing at a café or want to amp up your home brewing game? We’re here to help by breaking down the differences between an americano and a latte and showing you how to make each. No need to feel overwhelmed by the café menu, we’ll simplify it for you.
Whether you prefer the straightforward boldness of an americano or the creamy goodness of a latte, we’ve got the details covered. Say goodbye to the same old order and learn to make these classic drinks with ease. Whether you’re a café regular or a home barista, we’re here to make your coffee choices and brewing skills a bit more straightforward and enjoyable.
What is an Americano?
An americano is a popular espresso-based drink that originated in Europe during World War II. Legend has it that American soldiers stationed in Italy found the locally brewed espresso too strong for their liking, so they would dilute it with hot water to make it more palatable. Thus, the americano was born.
Preparing an americano involves pulling a shot of espresso and then adding hot water to dilute the strength of the coffee. The result is a smooth and less intense drink than a traditional espresso, but still maintains its rich flavor and crema (the foam on top of the espresso shot).
What is a Latte?
A latte, also known as a café latte, is an Italian coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk. It became popular in the US during the 1980s and has since become a staple in coffee shops all over the world.
To make a latte, a shot of espresso gets poured into a cup and then topped with steamed milk, creating a velvety texture. A small layer of foam is usually added on top, giving the latte its signature look. Some even choose to create latte art designs using the foam as well.
What Are the Differences?
Espresso-to-Milk Ratio
The main difference between these two drinks lies in the espresso-to-milk ratio. An americano contains more water than milk, resulting in a stronger coffee flavor, while a latte has a higher proportion of steamed milk, making it creamier and sweeter.
Texture
Due to the difference in espresso-to-milk ratio, americano and lattes have distinct textures. An americano has a thinner consistency, more similar to black coffee, whereas a latte has a thicker and silkier texture.
Caffeine Content
As an americano is essentially just diluted espresso, it usually has a higher caffeine content compared to a latte. However, since lattes contain a double shot of espresso, they still pack quite the caffeine punch.
Serving Size
Traditionally, an americano gets served in a smaller cup than a latte. This is because lattes contain more milk and need more space for foam on top. However, you can always ask for a larger size if you prefer more coffee in your drink.
Flavor
The difference in the espresso-to-milk ratio also affects the flavor of these two drinks. An americano has a bolder and more intense coffee taste, while a latte is milder and sweeter.
How to Make an Americano
Making an americano at home is simple and requires only a few tools:
- Espresso machine (or moka pot)
- Hot water
- Espresso Coffee beans of your choice
Steps:
- Start by brewing a shot of espresso using your preferred method. If you’re using an espresso machine, make sure to preheat the portafilter and cup before pulling the shot.
- Once you have your espresso shot, heat up some water in a kettle or on the stovetop. The ideal temperature for an americano is between 190-196°F.
- Pour the hot water into your cup, leaving enough room for the espresso shot.
- Add the espresso shot to the cup and give it a gentle stir.
- Your americano is ready for you to enjoy!
How to Make a Latte
Making a latte at home requires a bit more effort than an americano, but it’s still doable with the following tools:
- Espresso machine
- Milk frothing pitcher
- Coffee beans of your choice
Steps:
- Start by brewing a double shot of espresso using your preferred method.
- While the espresso is brewing, steam and froth some milk in a milk frothing pitcher. This creates the creamy texture that lattes are well-known for.
- Once you’ve steamed and frothed the milk, pour it into your cup over the espresso shot.
- Using a spoon, gently hold back the foam while pouring in the milk, then scoop some of the foam on top of your latte.
- You can also add some flavoring syrups or spices like cinnamon to enhance your latte.
Conclusion
While an americano and a latte may seem similar at first glance, they have distinct differences in terms of ingredients, texture, flavor, and caffeine content. Whether you prefer a stronger coffee taste or a creamier drink, knowing how to make both an americano and a latte will come in handy whenever you’re craving a delicious espresso-based beverage. So next time you’re at a coffee shop or brewing at home, you’ll be able to confidently order or make the drink of your choice.