Macchiato Explained: What It Is, How It’s Made, and Why Coffee Lovers Swear by It
Introduction
If you’ve ever scanned a café menu and wondered what exactly is a macchiato, you’re not alone. At KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters, we believe that every coffee has its own story. The macchiato, with its strong espresso base and delicate dash of milk, is one of the most misunderstood yet celebrated drinks in the coffee world. Let’s break it down.
What Is a Macchiato?
The word macchiato means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian. In coffee terms, it refers to an espresso that is “stained” with just a small amount of milk foam. Unlike a latte or cappuccino, the macchiato keeps the bold intensity of espresso front and centre.
Key takeaway: A macchiato is essentially an espresso with just a touch of milk — nothing more, nothing less.
How Is a Macchiato Made? 
Making a macchiato is all about balance:
-
Start with a single or double shot of espresso (around 30–60 ml).
-
Add a dollop of steamed milk or foam — just enough to soften the espresso’s edge without diluting it.
-
Serve in a small cup, typically 60–90 ml in size.
Unlike other coffee drinks, the macchiato isn’t about volume. It’s about flavour concentration.
Types of Macchiato
There are two main variations of macchiato enjoyed in cafés across Sydney and beyond:
-
Espresso Macchiato: The traditional style, espresso “stained” with milk foam.
-
Latte Macchiato: A glass of steamed milk “stained” with a shot of espresso, offering a reversed balance for those who prefer a creamier texture.
Fun fact: In many Australian cafés, if you just order a macchiato, you’ll usually get the traditional espresso version unless you specify.
Why Coffee Lovers Swear by It
Macchiato coffee served in Sydney café
So, what makes the macchiato so popular?
-
Bold Flavour: It retains the strength of espresso with a hint of creaminess.
-
Less Milk, More Coffee: Perfect for those who want the best of both worlds.
-
Versatile: Works well for morning pick-me-ups or afternoon café visits.
For coffee lovers in Sydney and across Australia, the macchiato is often the go-to for when you want something stronger than a latte but smoother than a straight espresso.
Macchiato vs. Other Coffee Drinks
| Coffee Type | Milk Content | Caffeine Strength | Flavour Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Espresso | None | High | Strong, bold |
| Latte | High | Medium | Smooth, creamy |
| Cappuccino | Medium | Medium-High | Frothy, balanced |
| Macchiato | Very Low | High | Strong with a touch of milk |
The KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters Take
At KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters, we roast some of the most loved coffee beans from around the world, that bring out the rich flavours needed for a perfect macchiato. Whether you’re brewing at home in Sydney or ordering from your favourite café, choosing high-quality beans makes all the difference.
Final Word
The macchiato may be small in size, but it packs a punch in flavour and character. Next time you’re at a café or brewing at home, give the macchiato a try — you might just find your new favourite. Explore our range of freshly roasted coffee beans at KaapiKaapi Coffee Roasters and elevate your coffee experience.
