☕ Macchiato
A macchiato, or caffè macchiato, is a single shot of espresso 'stained' with a small spoonful of foamed milk. It keeps the strong, bitter intensity of espresso while the foam softens the first sip. Served in a small espresso cup, it is a quick coffee taken at the bar, especially in the afternoon when Italians usually skip larger milky drinks.
Diets
Allergens
Contains (in a typical recipe):
What it is made of
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 shot espresso (about 30 ml)
- 1–2 tbsp milk, foamed
- Sugar to taste (optional)
Method
- Brew a single shot of espresso into a small warmed cup.
- Steam or froth the milk until it has a fine foam.
- Spoon a little foam onto the centre of the espresso and serve immediately.
How to make it lighter
- A plain macchiato is one of the lightest coffee drinks; most calories come from added sugar, about 4 kcal per gram.
- Skip syrups and flavoured toppings to keep it light.
- If you want a bigger drink, add another shot of espresso rather than more milk.
History
Caffè macchiato comes from Italian espresso bar culture; macchiato means 'stained' or 'marked', after the dot of milk on top. The name is said to have helped baristas tell it apart from a plain espresso. It should not be confused with the much larger layered latte macchiato.
Count it in one photo
Point your camera at the table — Me Nutrition recognises Macchiato and every other dish, with calories and macros for each. Ate only half? Slide it.
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Values are estimates per 100 g for a typical recipe; home and restaurant versions vary. Diets and allergens are worked out from the ingredients of a typical recipe — always check with whoever cooked the dish. Not medical advice. Nutrition data: Me Nutrition dish database v13. How we count →