What Is a Cappuccino? Types, Caffeine, and How to Make It
Updated - Team Colipse
A cappuccino is a 125 ml espresso-milk drink defined by INEI as equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and fine foam. Italians drink cappuccino in the morning, mainly between 7 and 11 a.m. The most popular types of cappuccino drinks are dry, bone dry, wet, iced, freddo, caramel, vanilla, mocha, and frozen variations. A standard 8 oz cappuccino contains about 64-75 milligrams of caffeine, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Cappuccino is healthy when consumed in moderation with 2–4 cups of coffee daily. The difference between a latte and a cappuccino is in milk quantity and texture. Cappuccino tastes rich, creamy, and balanced when using the right milk type, roast level, and milk-to-foam ratio.
A balanced cappuccino works best with a 70% Arabica + 30% Robusta medium-to-dark roast blend, using fresh, dense beans from high-elevation origins like Brazil, Colombia, or Ethiopia. Cappuccino is not the only milk-based drink. Other milk-based coffee drinks include latte, flat white, cortado, mocha, and macchiato.
What is a Cappuccino?
A cappuccino is an espresso-based drink made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. Each component of a cappuccino typically fills one-third of the cup. Cappuccino is made using 7–9 grams of ground espresso, not instant coffee powder. Authentic cappuccinos use real fine ground coffee, while powdered versions include sugar, milk powder, and flavoring.
The Italian National Espresso Institute (INEI) defines real cappuccino as a beverage made with 25 ml of certified Italian espresso and 100 ml of steamed milk at 55°C (131 °F). The milk used in Certified Italian Cappuccino must be fresh cow’s milk containing a minimum of 3.2% protein and 3.5% fat.
The total beverage volume of cappuccino is about 125 ml, according to INEI. The cappuccino is served in a 150–160 ml porcelain cup. The ideal cup is made of white feldspathic china, a fine, durable porcelain made with feldspar, kaolin, and quartz. In serving cappuccino, it provides excellent heat retention, keeping the drink warm longer.
The Certified Italian cappuccino features a white base, with a brown edge in the classic version or latte art patterns ranging from brown to hazelnut in artistic versions. The foam forms a tight mesh with fine or absent bubbles. The aroma blends floral and fruity notes with dominant milk, cereal, caramel, chocolate, cocoa, vanilla, and dried fruit scents. Smoky or biochemical odors are absent. It delivers a rich body, creamy texture, and full roundness.
The cappuccino is Italian, not French or American, and reflects Italian espresso culture. A cappuccino is not classified as a dessert coffee because it contains no syrups or sweet toppings. Real cappuccinos exclude whipped cream, syrups, and flavorings, and are topped with cocoa or chocolate powder. Italians traditionally drink cappuccino only at breakfast, often as a morning meal replacement.
What Does Cappuccino Mean?
In Italian, the word cappuccino literally means “small hooded one.” The term comes from the diminutive of cappuccio, meaning “hood” or “cowl.” The name cappuccino originates from the brown robes of Capuchin friars, which resemble the drink's color. The word cappuccino refers to a coffee drink made with espresso and steamed milk, topped with a layer of milk foam. The Italian spelling of cappuccino has remained unchanged since at least the 19th century. To pronounce "cappuccino" in Italian, say kahp-poo-CHEE-noh with stress on the third syllable.
Where Did Cappuccino Originate?
Cappuccino originated in Austria in the 1700s, where it was called “Kapuziner.” Legends link the cappuccino to 1683, but no historical record confirms it. Myths name Marco d’Aviano or Jerzy Kulczycki as creators using milk and honey. These stories remain unverified, and “Kapuziner” appears in records only decades later. The Kapuziner was a coffee drink mixed with cream, and sometimes sugar or spices. The modern Italian cappuccino emerged in early 20th-century northern Italy after the invention of the espresso machine in 1901. The Italian version used steamed milk instead of cream. The first cappuccino appeared in Italian cafés by the 1930s, gained global popularity after World War II, and became a specialty coffee staple by the 1980s.
When Do You Drink Cappuccino in Italy?
Italians usually drink cappuccino between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., typically as a morning beverage. A 2020 YouGov Italy survey published by T. Ozbun from Statista found that two in three Italian people have their coffee at breakfast. Cappuccino is served at breakfast in Italy because of its milk content. Italians avoid milk-based drinks after meals due to a cultural belief that milk disrupts digestion, which has some physiological basis. For example, a 2023 study by Silvia Tagliamonte published in Food Research International Journal found that even healthy, lactose-tolerant adults can experience gastrointestinal discomfort after consuming milk due to inefficient milk protein digestion.
The second reason why Italians don’t drink cappuccino after 11:00 a.m. is due to adult lactose malabsorption, which affects a large portion of the population. A 1987 study titled "Primary Adult Lactose Malabsorption in Italy" published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found lactose malabsorption rates differ by region: 52% in northern Italy, 41% in southern, and 19% in central Italy. Lactose malabsorbers also report milk intolerance more frequently, reinforcing a cultural habit of avoiding milk-based drinks after meals. After 11:00 a.m., Italians switch to espresso without milk to aid digestion and follow post-meal tradition. Some extend the habit to noon, while others enjoy cappuccino in the afternoon without cultural concern.
What are the Popular Types of Cappuccino Coffee?
The popular types of cappuccino include dry, bone dry, wet, iced, freddo, caramel, vanilla, mocha, and frozen variations of traditional Italian coffee. The eight most common types are listed below.
- Dry Cappuccino
- Bone Dry Cappuccino
- Wet Cappuccino
- Iced Cappuccino
- Freddo Cappuccino
- Caramel Cappuccino
- Vanilla Cappuccino
- Mocha Cappuccino
1. Dry Cappuccino
A dry cappuccino contains 1 shot (30 ml) of espresso and about 60 ml of milk foam with little to no steamed milk. The term "dry" means the drink has more foam and less liquid milk. The foam creates a light body and airy mouthfeel. A dry cappuccino tastes bold and less creamy than a regular one. Baristas make it by pulling a single espresso shot and topping it with thick milk foam. The ideal milk foam should reach 55–60°C (131–140°F), but not exceed 65°C (149°F) and hold its structure for at least 2 minutes.
2. Bone Dry Cappuccino
A bone dry cappuccino is a cappuccino made with only espresso and foam, without any steamed milk. The drink uses 1 shot of espresso (about 1 ounce or 30 milliliters) and 3–4 ounces (90–120 milliliters) of milk foam. The term "bone dry" means the cappuccino contains zero liquid milk. The drink tastes stronger and more bitter than a regular cappuccino due to the absence of milk. To make it, pull a single espresso shot and top it only with stiff, dry foam. The result is a bold, airy drink with a strong coffee flavor and a light texture.
3. Wet Cappuccino
A wet cappuccino uses 4 oz of steamed milk and 2 oz of espresso, creating a milkier drink than a dry cappuccino. A cappuccino is “wet” when it has more steamed milk and less foam. An extra wet cappuccino has little to no foam, resembling a latte. Wet foam cappuccinos use finely textured microfoam. To make one, steam milk to 150°F and pour over espresso with minimal foam. At Starbucks, order a cappuccino and request "extra wet" for more milk and less foam.
4. Iced Cappuccino
An iced cappuccino is made with 1–2 shots of espresso, cold milk, and ice, topped with frothed milk. The drink has a bold espresso flavor balanced by a creamy texture. Iced cappuccino tastes smooth and slightly bitter with low sweetness. Most iced cappuccinos contain less than 5 grams of sugar unless sweetened. A standard 12 oz iced cappuccino has around 80 calories without added sugar. The drink can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and without syrups.
5. Freddo Cappuccino
A Freddo cappuccino is a cold Greek coffee made with a double shot of espresso and cold frothed milk. An iced Freddo cappuccino contains 60–80 mg of caffeine and is served over ice in a tall glass. The main difference between a frappe and a Freddo cappuccino is the base—frappe uses instant coffee, while Freddo uses espresso. A Freddo cappuccino contains approximately 100–120 calories when made with full-fat milk. Baristas typically use cold skim milk or full-fat whole milk for better foam and texture.
6. Caramel Cappuccino
A caramel cappuccino is a hot espresso-based drink topped with foamed milk and caramel syrup. A caramel macchiato cappuccino adds vanilla syrup and espresso poured over foam, creating a layered effect. Caramel cappuccinos taste creamy, slightly bitter, and sweet with a toasted sugar finish. Standard cappuccinos are not sweet unless flavored. A medium (16 oz) caramel cappuccino contains about 190–250 calories depending on milk and syrup amounts. To make a caramel cappuccino, combine 2 oz espresso, 6 oz steamed milk, and 1–2 tablespoons of caramel syrup, then top with milk foam.
7. Vanilla Cappuccino
A vanilla cappuccino is a coffee drink made with 1 shot of espresso, 4 ounces of steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. A French vanilla cappuccino includes added sweeteners and creamy flavoring from dairy or powder blends. Vanilla cappuccinos taste creamy, mildly bitter, and have sweet vanilla notes. A standard 12 oz vanilla cappuccino contains 12–20 grams of sugar, depending on syrup amount. Vanilla cappuccinos are not considered healthy due to added sugars and flavored syrups.
8. Mocha Cappuccino
A mocha cappuccino combines espresso, steamed milk, and 1 oz (28 g) of chocolate syrup, topped with foam. A mocha macchiato cappuccino adds a caramel drizzle and layered milk, while a double mocha cappuccino includes 2 oz (56 g) of chocolate syrup. The main difference between a mocha cappuccino and a latte is the foam-to-milk ratio; cappuccinos use more foam. Mocha cappuccinos taste rich, slightly bitter, and chocolatey. To make one at home, combine 1 shot (30 ml) of espresso, 1 oz of chocolate syrup, 4 oz (120 ml) of steamed milk, and finish with milk foam.
How Much Caffeine is in a Cappuccino?
A standard 8 oz (237 ml) cappuccino contains about 64-75 milligrams (mg) of caffeine, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The caffeine content in cappuccino comes entirely from the espresso used in the drink, and varies based on the number espresso shots, bean type, milk ratio, and size. For example, the caffeine amount in a 12-ounce double shot cappuccino is about 128 mg, and a 16-ounce can contain up to 173 mg. Caffeine is a natural stimulant that can keep you awake.
The amount of caffeine in a cappuccino depends on which coffee beans are used. A single-shot cappuccino made with Robusta beans contains about twice the caffeine of Arabica, delivering a stronger caffeine kick. A 2021 study by published in European Journal of Natural Sciences and Medicine found that Arabica green coffee contained 154 mg of caffeine per 100 g, while Robusta contained 182 mg per 100 g. Brewed amounts vary by roast and dose, with 7g shots yielding 64 mg for Arabica and 114 mg for Robusta.
The following table shows the caffeine content in cappuccinos from major coffee chains, comparing serving sizes and milligrams of caffeine per drink.
| Name | Serving Size | Caffeine Content (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Starbucks | 16 fl oz | 150 |
| Tim Hortons | 14 fl oz | 150 |
| Dunkin' | 14 fl oz | 150 |
| McDonald's McCafe | 12 fl oz | 75 |
| Costa Coffee | 12 fl oz | 325 |
| Caffè Nero | 12 fl oz | 110 |
| Greggs | 12 fl oz | 197 |
| Casey's | 16 fl oz | 60 |
| Wawa | 16 fl oz | 150 |
| Circle K | 16 fl oz | 173 |
| QuikTrip (QT) | 16 fl oz | 150 |
| 7-Eleven | 16 fl oz | 150 |
| Sheetz | 16 fl oz | 180 |
Is Cappuccino Healthy?
Yes, cappuccino is healthy when consumed in moderation. Studies show drinking 2-4 cups of unsweetened cappuccino daily is good for your health. According to a 2019 meta analysis by published in European Journal of Epidemiology, drinking 2–4 cups of coffee per day was associated with reduced all-cause and cause-specific mortality compared with no coffee consumption. Similarly, a 2017 meta-analysis by Robin Poole published in British Medical Journal found that drinking 3–4 cups of coffee per day was linked to reduced risk of death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, liver conditions, certain cancers, and neurological disorders.
Drinking 2–4 cups of cappuccino daily is good for health because it provides antioxidants from espresso. In a 2017 study from Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin published in Biological Trace Element Research, cappuccino showed 66.0% DPPH inhibition, the highest antioxidant activity. Turkish coffee showed 33.2%, and instant coffee showed 14.0%.
The additional health benefits in cappuccino come from whole milk, which binds milk proteins to coffee polyphenols and nearly doubles their anti-inflammatory effects in immune cells, according to a 2023 study from University of Copenhagen published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Nutritionally, cow’s milk cappuccino adds 4–8 g of protein, calcium, vitamin B12, iodine, saturated fat, and lactose.
The following table, sourced from USDA National Nutrient Database, lists the full nutritional breakdown of a cappuccino.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 65 kcal | N/A |
| Total Fat | 2.4 g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g | 8% |
| Cholesterol | 9.6 mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 55.2 mg | 2% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.4 g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% |
| Sugars | 5.6 g | N/A |
| Protein | 4 g | 8% |
| Vitamin A (RAE) | 100.8 mcg | 11% |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.064 mg | 5% |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.24 mg | 18% |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 2.264 mg | 14% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.064 mg | 4% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.56 mcg | 23% |
| Folate (DFE, Vitamin B9) | 2.4 mcg | 1% |
| Calcium | 160 mg | 12% |
| Iron | 0 mg | 0% |
| Potassium | 240 mg | 5% |
| Magnesium | 24 mg | 6% |
| Phosphorus | 132 mg | 11% |
| Zinc | 0.56 mg | 5% |
| Selenium | 2.4 mcg | 4% |
How Many Calories Are in a Cappuccino?
A standard 8 fl oz cappuccino contains 74 calories when made with whole milk, but calorie count varies by serving size, milk type, and preparation method. Homemade versions range from 52–74 calories per serving, based on espresso, steamed milk, and foam ratios. Calories in cappuccino increase with size. An 8–12 fl oz cup with whole milk contains 74–113 calories, while a 16 fl oz serving contains 149–179. Decaf cappuccinos have the same calories as regular because caffeine adds none.
Coffee shop cappuccinos vary in calories based on milk type and size. A Starbucks tall cappuccino with whole milk has 140 calories, while an 8 oz size has 70. Costa’s medium cappuccino with semi-skimmed milk has 122 calories, and the skinny version drops it to 90. Alternative milk options affect calorie totals. A 12 fl oz almond milk cappuccino contains 75–80 calories. An oat milk version ranges from 80–106 calories for the same size.
Instant cappuccino calories vary by brand and preparation. Kenco has 57 calories, Nescafé Gold 85, and Tassimo 40–60 per 8 fl oz cup. Flavored options increase calories—McDonald's 12 fl oz French Vanilla has 210, while 24 fl oz versions can hit 390–580. Baskin-Robbins' 16 fl oz Cappuccino Blast contains 310.
Is Cappuccino Good for Weight Loss?
Yes, cappuccino is good for weight loss if consumed in moderation without added sugar or cream. A 2023 study by Matthias Henn from Department of Nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that drinking coffee without added sugar helped reduce long-term weight gain. The study found each additional cup of unsweetened caffeinated coffee per day led to a 0.12 kg weight loss over four years, while adding one teaspoon of sugar led to a 0.09 kg weight gain.
One cappuccino per day provides fewer calories than a latte and may aid fat metabolism due to caffeine. A 2019 meta-analysis by Reza Tabrizi and colleagues from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition showed that people who consumed more caffeine tended to have lower body weight, lower BMI, and less body fat. However, drinking cappuccino breaks intermittent fasting and disrupts ketosis because milk contains calories, sugar, and carbs that trigger insulin and stop fat metabolism.
What is the Difference between a Latte and a Cappuccino?
The difference between a latte and a cappuccino is in milk quantity and texture. A latte uses more steamed milk with light foam, while a cappuccino combines equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam. Both contain one espresso shot, but the cappuccino has a stronger coffee flavor than a latte because it contains less milk and a higher concentration of espresso per ounce. Latte tastes sweeter because it contains more milk, is larger in size, and looks more appealing, according to a 2021 study by Ewa Czarniecka-Skubina from Warsaw University of Life Sciences published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. The milk reduces latte intensity and creates a milder, smoother taste. Cappuccino has a bolder taste and lighter texture because of the milk foam structure.
What Does a Cappuccino Taste Like?
Cappuccino tastes rich, creamy, and balanced when using the right milk type, roast level, and milk-to-foam ratio. The cappuccino has a creamy, round mouthfeel with floral and fruity undertones balanced by notes of milk, cocoa, caramel, vanilla, and toasted cereal. The foam is dense with no visible bubbles. It tastes mildly bitter with balanced acidity, no astringency, and no smoky or off-putting aromas.
Not all cappuccinos taste the same as their flavor varies depending on the espresso blend, roast level, milk texture, and origin of beans. Cappuccino from a medium roast tastes balanced, with mild acidity and notes of nuts or chocolate. A dark Italian roast cappuccino tastes bolder, with low acidity and strong smoky, bitter, or burnt sugar flavors. The milk softens both but highlights sweetness in medium and depth in dark roasts. Brazilian coffees add body and low acidity, while Central American beans add structure and clarity. Even small amounts of Robusta change crema and mouthfeel.
How to Make the Best Tasting Cappuccino at Home?
To make a cappuccino at home with optimal flavor, strong aroma, and smooth crema, you need freshly roasted, specialty-grade coffee beans. Specialty beans contain more aromatic oils, fewer defects, and consistent roast levels, which produce richer taste and better espresso, essential for the milk-espresso balance in a cappuccino. The following steps show how to make cappuccino at home.
- Use fresh coffee beans and grind finely to a texture like table salt.
- Measure 18–20 grams of ground coffee for a double espresso shot.
- Pack the ground coffee evenly and firmly inside the portafilter.
- Pull the espresso shot for 20–30 seconds.
- Pour it into a preheated cappuccino cup.
- Pour cold fresh milk into a metal pitcher until one-third full.
- Steam milk to 150–160°F (65–70°C) with microfoam.
- Swirl and tap to smooth bubbles.
- Pour over espresso, layering foam on top.
What is the Best Coffee Blend for a Cappuccino?
The best coffee blend for a cappuccino combines 70% Arabica and 30% Robusta beans. Arabica beans provide sweetness and acidity, while Robusta adds crema and body. Use a medium to dark roast to balance the milk's richness. Choose coffee beans for cappuccino grown at 1,200–2,000 meters for optimal density and flavor. Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia produce top Arabica for cappuccinos. Maintain a brew ratio of 1:2 for espresso-based cappuccino. Use beans roasted 7–14 days ago for peak flavor.
Where to Buy Coffee Beans to Make Cappuccino?
You can buy coffee beans for cappuccino from Colipse Coffee online store. At Colipse Coffee, we roast dark espresso beans like Italian and French Roast fresh to order for rich crema and bold flavor in cappuccinos. We offer whole coffee beans or ground options, multiple bag sizes, and free U.S. shipping. Our coffee pairs perfectly with milk, making it ideal for cappuccino lovers.
What is the Difference between Cappuccino and Other Coffee Drinks?
The main difference between cappuccino and other coffee drinks is the milk-to-espresso ratio. A cappuccino contains 1 oz of espresso, 1 oz of steamed milk, and 1 oz of milk foam. A flat white uses 2 oz of espresso with 4 oz of microfoam, creating a smoother texture. A macchiato contains 1 oz of espresso topped with only 0.5 oz of foam. An espresso is served as a 1 oz shot with no milk or foam. Cappuccinos balance strength and creaminess with a total volume of around 6 oz.
What is the Difference between Cappuccino and Mocha?
The main difference between cappuccino and mocha is the presence of chocolate. A cappuccino blends espresso, steamed milk, and foam in equal parts. A mocha contains espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup or cocoa, often topped with whipped cream. Mocha is sweeter and more dessert-like than cappuccino.
What is the Difference between Cappuccino and Cortado?
The main difference between cappuccino and cortado is the milk ratio. A cappuccino has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam (1:1:1), creating a light, airy texture. A cortado uses a 1:1 espresso to steamed milk ratio with no foam, resulting in a smaller, stronger, and creamier drink.