Ratio & Recipe

Ratios & How to Make a Cappuccino vs a Latte

The difference between a cappuccino and a latte is really a difference of ratios. Get the espresso-to-milk-to-foam proportions right and everything else — taste, texture, strength — follows.

A cappuccino is the classic 1 : 1 : 1 of espresso, steamed milk and foam. A latte is roughly 1 : 4 espresso to milk with just a thin foam cap. Here is exactly how to build each one.

Steaming milk being poured to make a cappuccino and a latte at home

The ratios at a glance

Component	Cappuccino	Latte
Espresso	1/3 (single/double shot)	Single/double shot
Steamed milk	1/3	~2/3 to 3/4
Foam	1/3 (thick)	Thin (~1 cm)
Typical size	5–6 oz	10–12 oz
Milk texture	Airy, aerated	Silky, low-air

How to make a cappuccino

1 Pull a single or double shot of espresso into a 5–6 oz cup.
2 Steam cold milk, introducing plenty of air early to build a thick, glossy foam.
3 Pour the steamed milk to fill about one-third of the cup, holding back the foam.
4 Spoon the thick foam on top so espresso, milk and foam form three roughly equal layers.

How to make a latte

1 Pull a single or double shot of espresso into a 10–12 oz cup.
2 Steam cold milk with minimal air for a smooth, glossy microfoam.
3 Pour the steamed milk in steadily to integrate it with the espresso, filling most of the cup.
4 Finish with a thin (~1 cm) layer of microfoam, pouring latte art if you like.

How much milk should you use?

For a 6 oz cappuccino, steam about 4 oz of milk (you will use roughly half as liquid and half as foam). For a 12 oz latte, steam about 10 oz of milk with only a thin foam layer. The espresso stays the same — it is the milk that changes the drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ratio of a cappuccino?

A traditional cappuccino is 1:1:1 — equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foam. This gives it a strong coffee flavor and a thick, airy top.

How much milk is in a cappuccino vs a latte?

A cappuccino uses about one-third steamed milk (plus a third foam), while a latte is roughly two-thirds to three-quarters steamed milk with only a thin foam layer.

Can I make a cappuccino or latte without an espresso machine?

You can approximate one using strong stovetop (Moka pot) coffee and milk frothed with a handheld frother or a jar. It will not be identical to café espresso, but the ratios still apply.