How to Make a Macchiato

Nowadays, espresso, capuccino, macchiato, etc., are among some of the common terms used by coffee lovers across the globe. While, all of them are are coffee-based drinks, there are some basic differences between them. espresso refers to the coffee drink that is made by pressing hot water through coffee grounds. Capuccino contains one part espresso with one part each of steamed milk and steamed milk foam. Macchiato coffee refers to espresso shot with a small amount of milk froth. So, cafe macchiato is nothing other than espresso with a topping of milk froth. The term macchiato means 'marked' and in this case, it refers to espresso marked with a small amount of milk. This type of coffee can be made at home, provided, you have the necessary materials and tools. Above all, you must know how to make a macchiato in the right way. If you are interested in preparing this coffee beverage at home, then, read on...

How to Make a Cafe Macchiato

As mentioned above, cafe macchiato is a simple drink made with an espresso shot and a small amount of milk froth. Even though, it sounds simple, you may find it difficult to prepare this drink, as it is all about the perfect express shot that requires an equally perfect foam to top it. Let us take a look at how to make a macchiato coffee.

Perfect Milk Froth

One of the main parts of making a macchiato is to create the foam, by steaming the milk. The thicker the milk you use, it will be easier to get the froth. Skim milk is not preferred, as it may not produce a dense foam. For preparing a single macchiato, use around eight ounces of milk. Add the milk to a stainless steel pitcher and place a food thermometer in it. You may also use steaming pitchers with thermometer. The next step is to place the steaming wand tip just beneath the surface of the milk. Start the steamer and after sometime, place the tip of the steaming wand, just above the surface of the milk, so that froth is formed. If you are doing right, you may hear a light hissing noise. Once the milk gets heated to a temperature of around 150-160 degrees, turn off the steamer. Clean the steaming wand and keep the pitcher aside. The next part is to pull the espresso shot.

Pulling espresso Shot

One of the golden rules with regard to espresso is to use freshly ground coffee beans. Add the freshly ground coffee beans to the portafilter. Now, lightly shake and hit the portafilter to accommodate more coffee grounds. Tamp the portafilter till it is sealed tightly and there is no extra space inside. Clean the sides and rim by removing stray coffee grounds and lock the portafilter into the machine. Now, pull the shots and the ideal timing for such a shot is said to be between 18 to 23 seconds. It is believed that a perfect espresso shot will have a froth that is golden in color. You may also read more on how to make coffee.

Both the espresso shot and milk froth are ready. All you have to do is to take out a tablespoon (may use up to three tablespoons) of milk froth and place it on top of the coffee. Your macchiato coffee is ready to serve. Some people have doubts regarding how to make a caramel macchiato. In order to make this drink, all you have to do is to add a teaspoon each of caramel and vanilla syrup and ¾ cup of steamed milk. Top these ingredients with milk foam, then, espresso shot and use caramel sauce over it. There are many other caramel macchiato recipes that you can try.

Now you know how to make a macchiato coffee. If you fail to come up with a perfect one, try for a few times, as this is more like an art form that can be mastered with practice.