Espresso vs Cappuccino - What's the major difference?

Have you also come across the two famous coffee terms- Espresso and Cappuccino and get confused about their differences? Espresso and Cappuccino are two Italian coffee types. The ratio of coffee shots, milk, and milk foam present in them differs and as a result, the taste of both Espresso and Cappuccino is also distinctive. Even by looking at Espresso and Cappuccino, you might find them to be completely different and there are more differences in their taste and flavours that we’ll explore further. Cold brew variants can be used to make both these types of coffee. You will find some clarity about what is the difference between Espresso and Cappuccino. 

TABLE OF CONTENT

What is Espresso?

What is Cappuccino?

What is the difference between Espresso and Cappuccino?

Benefits of Espresso and Cappuccino?

Recommendation- Espresso vs Cappuccino

FAQS

These two coffee varieties- Espresso and Cappuccino have made their way to all the cafes around the world and possibly your home as well. Let’s break them down and start the battle between Espresso vs Cappuccino. 

What is Espresso?

Espresso is known as the purest form of coffee as it is a concentration of just water and coffee filled with a caffeinated kick. It is prepared by brewing hot water through finely-ground coffee. This creates a perfect concentration of coffee giving an intense flavour. This is also what you’d refer to as Black Coffee. It is usually served with sugar. Espresso is filled with 63 mg of caffeine. So, Espresso is served in small cups to give a shot of coffee. It is a bold, flavourful and fresh type of coffee. Arabica coffee is usually preferred for preparing Espresso. There are some differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee that need to be understood. 

Preparation Technique

Making a good espresso is a skillful task and requires craftsmanship. It is  all a game of selecting the right coffee beans, getting the right quantity and getting the right brewing time. Every step in the process adds-on to the final product.

For the best espresso: - 

1. Start with freshly ground coffee beans
2. A good quality espresso machine is used 
3. Firmly pack the coffee grounds, then evenly in the filter
4. Brew the espresso for 25-30 seconds in hot water
5. Serve in small cups 
6. Enjoy it right away to savour the creamy froth and rich flavour

What is Cappuccino?

Cappuccino can be called a by-product of Espresso as Cappuccino uses Espresso as a base. Cappuccino is ⅓  part Espresso, ⅓  part milk and ⅓ part milk foam. The first step to making a Cappuccino is to brew Espresso and then add milk and milk foam to it in the right proportions. Grown in many parts of India, Arabica coffee gives chocolaty and smooth flavours. Therefore, cappuccino offers a balanced, sweet flavour with a little creaminess to it. It is a great combination of the creamy texture of the milk and the boldness of Espresso. 

Preparation Technique

Making a Cappuccino is an artful process which requires a harmonious blend of espresso, milk and milk foam that’ll create a balanced cup of coffee

For the best Cappuccino-

1. Make two espressos using the method described earlier
2. Heat milk to around (65-68°C) 
3. Create fluffy foam by frothing the milk
4. Use a 1:1:1 ratio of espresso, steamed milk, and foam 
5. Gently pour the steamed milk and foam onto the espresso in a circular motion
6. Enjoy the slow sips of coffee

What is the difference between Espresso and Cappuccino?

Espresso and Cappuccino are extremely different in both appearance and taste. The following table will make the difference between Espresso and Cappuccino clear. 

Benefits of Espresso and Cappuccino?

Espresso- It gives a perfect boost if needed. Espresso is filled with a high dose of caffeine giving a bold taste that will give a kick of energy. 

Cappuccino- This is the sweet delight for the days when you need a sit-down cup of comfort coffee. Cappuccino offers a balanced and creamy flavour giving a delightful experience. 

Recommendation- Espresso vs Cappuccino

Well, you can try both Espresso and Cappuccino and find your perfect match but here is our recommendation of which one you might prefer based on your taste palette.

1. Boldness Seekers

If you love a full caffeinated punch in your coffee, go for Espresso because it will feel like a dream come true. Espresso will deliver a flavourful journey which includes bold flavours and a hint of bitterness that coffee enthusiasts highly appreciate. Taking a quick shot of espresso is your way to go. 

2. Comfort Coffee Lovers

If you enjoy a cup of coffee while having a conversation or just take your time to sip on your coffee while reading a book, Cappuccino is made for you. From its creaminess, to its sweetness you’ll enjoy every aspect of Cappuccino.

3. The Versatile

For those who give a twist to your coffee and seek versatility, Cappuccino is your canvas. Alter the ingredient ratio of espresso, milk and foam to create a darker or sweeter coffee. This will easily cater to your preference and you can find what works best for you after a few alterations. 

FAQS

Q.1) What is the difference between Espresso and Cappuccino?

Espresso is a concentrated coffee and it is bold and bitter in taste. Cappuccino is diluted espresso with milk and milk foam making it creamy, balanced and sweet. 

Q.2) Is Espresso stronger than Cappuccino?

Yes, espresso contains 63 mg of caffeine making it absolutely stronger than Cappuccino which only has about 12 mg of caffeine. Espresso is the best if you seek a strong dose of coffee which gives a kick of energy. 

Q.3) Is a Cappuccino just Espresso added with milk?

Cappuccino uses espresso as a base where 1:1:1 ratio is used of espresso, milk and milk foam. So yes, we can say that cappuccino is espresso added with milk and milk foam. Steamed milk is added to espresso to make Cappuccino.

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