Caffe Macchiato
Jul 18, 2023, Updated Feb 21, 2026
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Caffe Macchiato, or espresso macchiato, is a traditional Italian coffee beverage prepared with the perfect blend of Espresso and a touch of milk.
In the world of coffee, there is a wonderful beverage that combines the rich intensity of espresso with the subtle smoothness of milk, creating the perfect blend for coffee lovers. We’re talking about none other than the Caffe Macchiato – also known as my everyday go-to sipper, with a side of my easy tiramisu!
What is Macchiato?
Caffè macchiato is a classic, combining espresso with a small amount of milk, typically in a foamed form. The name “macchiato” originates from the need to distinguish between an espresso and an espresso with a small amount of milk, as the latter was “marked” or “stained” for the new baristas.
Why Make Your Own Macchiato and Skip Starbucks?
- Customization: By making your own Caffe Macchiato, you have full control over the quality and quantity of ingredients used. You can adjust the ratio of espresso to milk according to your personal preference.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Frequenting coffee shops can add up, so by brewing your own Macchiato, you can enjoy this treat without breaking the bank.
- Creative Expression: Experiment with flavors, different beans, or even infuse unique flavors into your creation. My husband uses hazelnut creamer in his macchiato instead of plain whole milk, and it’s delicious.
How To Make Caffe Macchiato
The Ingredients
- Freshly roasted coffee beans
- Water
- Whole Milk: This froths the best because of the high-fat content.
Directions
- Brew two shots of fresh espresso using an espresso machine. You can also use AeroPress, French Press, or make espresso with instant granules.
- Steam milk to approximately 160°F (71°C), ensuring a creamy texture. Hold the steam wand or milk frother just below the surface to create foam.
- Pour the desired amount of steamed milk into the espresso, spoon the foam on top of the drink, and serve.
Recipe Tips
- Use Good Coffee: Start with quality, freshly roasted beans for the best flavor. I like Illy Classico whole bean coffee.
- Steam Milk Properly: Heat milk to about 160°F for the best texture and sweetness. Keep the steam wand just below the surface to create foam.
- No Espresso Machine? Use instant espresso and follow the package directions. Warm the milk gently on the stovetop and froth it once heated. Do not let it boil.
- Milk Frother Tip: A simple handheld frother works great, but an electric milk frother makes it even easier.
- Adjust to Taste: Start with equal parts espresso and milk, then adjust. Some like it strong, some like it milky. Make it yours.
More Homemade Coffee Drinks
Caffe Macchiato
Ingredients
- 2 to 4 shots brewed Espresso
- ¼ cup whole milk
Instructions
- Divide the espresso shots between two espresso cups.
- Steam or warm the milk to approximately 160°F (71°C), ensuring a creamy texture. Then, hold the steam wand or handheld milk frother just below the surface to create foam.
- Pour the desired amount of steamed milk into the espresso.
- Spoon the foam on top of the drink, and serve.
Equipment
Notes
- If you don’t have an espresso machine, an AeroPress, or not even a French Press, not to worry! Grab some instant espresso granules and make the espresso according to the directions on the jar. Then, warm the milk on your stovetop in a small saucepan, but do not boil it. Once the milk’s temperature has reached about 160˚F, remove it from the burner and immediately start to foam it with the milk frother. FYI: Milk’s boiling point is 203˚F.
- Milk Frother: If you don’t have an espresso machine with a wand and need to use a milk frother, I suggest splurging on one of these milk steamers and frothers in one. I have this 👉 Nespresso, and it’s excellent!
- Whole Milk works best for froth and foam because of its higher fat content.
- If possible, make the macchiatos with freshly roasted coffee beans because their flavor is more intense and vibrant.
- Macchiato has the highest ratio of espresso to milk in these beverages because this coffee drink aims to achieve a balance where the milk mellows the coffee’s flavor without overpowering it. Finding the perfect balance between espresso and milk is a matter of personal preference, but remember that macchiatos are not lattes.
Nutrition
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as courtesy. Values may vary according to the ingredients and tools used. Please use your preferred nutritional calculator for more detailed info.
Besides the fact that this is delicious, the best part of this macchiato is that I didn’t have to spend 50 billion dollars to drink it. Love it.
This looks like a perfect way to start the day! Thank you so much for sharing!
No doubt, this is really amazing! Definitely a must try!
I love coffee so much! I will make this caffe macchiato for my family!
Oh, I tried it and turned out really amazing! Thanks for the recipe!
Can I make this iced? Just not froth milk, and throw over ice?