What is a Cappuccino?
A cappuccino is a classic Italian coffee made with espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of foam on top. The three parts are typically equal, served in a 150–180ml cup. The foam is what sets it apart. Rich, dense, and creamy, not frothy or bubbly. It's stronger than a latte, but still softer than a straight espresso.
A Bit of History
The name “cappuccino” comes from the Capuchin friars, whose brown hooded robes resembled the colour of the drink. But the roots go back even further, to 18th-century Vienna, where the Kapuziner was served with coffee, cream, and spices.
The modern cappuccino came to life in early 20th-century Italy, when espresso machines made it possible to add steamed milk and foam. From there, it spread across Europe and eventually the world, though the size, milk ratio, and foam style now vary wildly depending on where you order it.
How to Make a Proper Cappuccino
Start with a single or double shot of espresso (25–50ml), then add steamed milk and a thick layer of milk foam, roughly a third of each element in total volume.
The foam should be dense and glossy, not dry or bubbly. Pour it all into a small cup, ideally no more than 180ml. Some people dust it with cocoa or cinnamon, but the best cappuccinos don’t need anything on top.
Variations You Might See
Some baristas tweak the ratio, which leads to different versions:
A wet cappuccino has more milk, less foam.
A dry cappuccino goes heavy on foam and light on milk.
A bone-dry cappuccino skips the milk altogether, just espresso and foam.
A freddo cappuccino is the iced version, especially popular in Greece.
None are wrong, but purists will always lean toward that classic 1:1:1 balance.
Ordering Tips
If you want a proper cappuccino, not a milky latte in disguise, ask for it in a small cup and make sure it’s topped with proper foam, not bubbles or froth. Dense, spoonable foam is what you’re after.
In Italy, cappuccinos are typically a morning drink. Order one after 11am and you might get side-eyed. Elsewhere, feel free to ignore that rule but know that it originated from the idea that milk-heavy drinks shouldn’t follow meals.
In Plain English
A cappuccino is strong espresso mellowed by warm milk, then capped with a thick, creamy foam. It’s bold but comforting, with texture and taste in balance. If a latte feels a bit too safe, and an espresso a bit too much, this is the happy middle ground.
