A cappuccino is a traditional Italian coffee drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. Its creamy texture and bold flavor make it unique compared to simple coffee with milk. The foam creates a light, airy finish that balances the strength of the espresso. See how it compares to a breve .

How to make cappuccino step by step?

To learn how to make cappuccino , start with two shots of espresso, steam your milk to create microfoam, and pour it over the coffee in a 1:1:1 ratio of espresso, milk, and foam. Add a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon for a café‑style touch. Check our espresso bean guide for best results.

Is cappuccino just coffee with milk?

No, a cappuccino is more structured than simple coffee with milk. It uses espresso as the base, topped with steamed milk and a thick foam layer for a balanced texture. This layering is what gives cappuccino its rich flavor and light mouthfeel.

Can you make a cappuccino with normal coffee?

Yes, but it will not be as authentic as using espresso. Brew very strong coffee, froth your milk, and assemble it like a cappuccino. For the best results, learning how to make cappuccino with a proper espresso machine is recommended.

How does a barista make cappuccino?

Baristas pull fresh espresso shots, steam milk to create fine microfoam, and layer the drink carefully. They often finish with latte art to enhance the presentation. Professional barista techniques help maintain the right ratio of cappuccino and texture every time.

Does cappuccino have caffeine?

Yes, cappuccino contains caffeine from the espresso. A standard 6‑ounce serving has roughly 60‑120 mg of caffeine depending on the beans and extraction. If you want a lighter option, you can use half‑caf beans or mix with milk alternatives.

How to Make Cappuccino | Easy Recipe & Barista Tips

Name: How to Make Cappuccino at Home – Quick & Easy Guide
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 shots of freshly brewed espresso; 1/3 cup whole milk (or oat, almond, or soy for creamy alternatives); Optional sweeteners: sugar, honey, or vanilla syrup; Cocoa powder or cinnamon to garnish

Description

A classic Italian cappuccino made with bold espresso, silky steamed milk, and airy milk foam. Learn how to create a barista-quality cappuccino at home with this simple step-by-step guide.

Ingredients

Scale

2 shots of freshly brewed espresso

1/3 cup whole milk (or oat, almond, or soy for creamy alternatives)

Optional sweeteners: sugar, honey, or vanilla syrup

Cocoa powder or cinnamon to garnish

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Instructions

Brew the Espresso: Start with freshly ground coffee and brew two shots of espresso. Tamp gently but firmly for balanced extraction.
Steam and Froth the Milk: Warm 1/3 cup of milk to about 150°F (65°C) and create silky microfoam with tiny bubbles using a steam wand, frother, or French press.
Assemble the Cappuccino: Slowly pour the steamed milk over the espresso, allowing the crema to rise. Spoon the foam on top and dust lightly with cocoa or cinnamon.

Notes

Use whole milk for the richest foam, or oat milk for a plant-based alternative. Keep milk below 160°F (70°C) to preserve natural sweetness. Optional sweeteners can be added to taste.

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Category: Drink
Method: Brew
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (150-180 ml)
Calories: 60
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 40mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 8mg