Espresso with a dot of milk foam. It has a strength level of 4 out of 5, making it a bold choice to coffee. Perfect for Perfect afternoon pick-me-up when you want strong espresso flavor with just a hint of milk..

When should you drink Macchiato?

This is a strong coffee, perfect for morning energy or when you need a bold kick. Best for: Perfect afternoon pick-me-up when you want strong espresso flavor with just a hint of milk..

How do you pronounce Macchiato?

The coffee is pronounced as "Macchiato". Click the audio button on our page to hear the correct pronunciation and learn how to say Macchiato properly.

Coffee Names

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Macchiato

Pronunciation: /ˌmɑː.kiˈɑː.toʊ/ (mah-kee-AH-toh)

Espresso with a dot of milk foam.

Best for: Perfect afternoon pick-me-up when you want strong espresso flavor with just a hint of milk.

Taste Profile

Strength

Mild

Strong

Sweetness

Bitter

Sweet

Texture

Watery

Creamy

What is Macchiato?

Espresso with a dot of milk foam.

This coffee drink is perfect for those who perfect afternoon pick-me-up when you want strong espresso flavor with just a hint of milk.. With a strength level of 4 out of 5, this is a bold choice to coffee.

When to Drink

Perfect when you want a strong coffee hit with just a tiny "kiss" of milk softness. A quick mid-day pick-me-up without the fullness of a latte.

Professional Preparation

Equipment

Espresso Machine

Method

Shot: Pull a shot of espresso.
Mark: Steam a small amount of milk. Spoon a teaspoon of foam onto the center to "mark" the espresso.

Home Preparation (Simplified)

Equipment

Moka Pot or Capsule Machine

Method

Strong Base: Brew a strong espresso-style shot.
Foam Only: Froth a little bit of milk (whisk or jar method).
The Hat: Don't pour the milk! Take a spoon and gently place only a dollop of foam on top of your black coffee.
Result: Bold coffee flavor with a soft, creamy finish.

History & Background

"Macchiato" means "marked" or "stained" in Italian. Historically, this drink served a practical purpose for waiters in busy Italian espresso bars. They needed a way to distinguish a straight espresso from one containing a tiny bit of milk for customers. The barista would "mark" the espresso with a dollop of foam, signaling the difference visually. Unlike the massive, syrup-filled bowls served in international chains today, the traditional macchiato remains a tiny, 2-3 ounce beverage designed to offer the punch of espresso with just a whisper of dairy sweetness to temper the acidity.