Culture & Lifestyle • Coffee

Cappuccino

A cappuccino is an espresso-based coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

A cappuccino is an espresso-based coffee drink made with espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. In its classic form, the drink is divided into roughly equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, and is often associated with Italian coffee culture. It is a common café beverage in Canada, widely sold in coffee shops and restaurants.

Definition

A cappuccino is an espresso-based drink prepared with steamed milk and a layer of milk foam. Modern descriptions often emphasize the balance between the bitterness of espresso and the sweetness and texture of the milk.

History and origin

The modern cappuccino is associated with Italy, though some historical accounts connect earlier coffee-and-milk drinks to Austrian predecessors. The name is commonly linked to the German word *Kapuziner*.

Preparation

A classic cappuccino is made by pulling espresso, steaming milk, and layering foam on top. Recipes may use roughly equal thirds of espresso, steamed milk, and foam, with optional cocoa powder or cinnamon as a garnish.

Serving style

Cappuccinos are usually served in smaller cups than lattes and are known for a more pronounced foam layer. The exact size and milk texture can vary by café and region.

Key facts

The cappuccino is a coffee drink built around espresso and milk foam.
Traditional preparation uses equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.
Coffee specialists commonly describe it as a beverage with a distinct layered structure.
A cappuccino is generally smaller than a latte and has a stronger coffee flavor.
Cocoa powder or cinnamon may be added as a finishing garnish in some versions.

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Canadian context

Cappuccino is a common café beverage in Canada and is widely sold in coffee shops, restaurants, and home espresso systems across the country.

Frequently asked questions

What is a cappuccino?

A cappuccino is an espresso-based coffee drink made with steamed milk and milk foam, typically in roughly equal parts.

How to make a cappuccino?

Prepare espresso, steam milk to create microfoam, then pour the milk and foam over the espresso in layers. Many recipes use about one-third espresso, one-third steamed milk, and one-third foam.

Cappuccino vs latte?

A cappuccino is usually smaller, with more foam and a stronger espresso presence. A latte typically has more steamed milk and only a thin foam layer.

Cappuccino calories?

Calories vary by milk type, cup size, and added sugar or flavourings. A standard cappuccino made with plain milk is generally lower in calories than sweeter coffee drinks, but the exact number depends on the recipe.

Cappuccino recipe?

A basic recipe uses espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam, often in equal parts. Optional toppings include cocoa powder or cinnamon.

Cappuccino machine?

A cappuccino is commonly made with an espresso machine that can brew espresso and steam milk. The steam wand is used to heat and froth the milk.

References

Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/cappuccino
Supports: Definition of cappuccino, equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk; comparison with latte.
Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cappuccino
Supports: Traditional composition, layered preparation, and general description of the drink.
NESCAFÉ — https://www.nescafe.com/es/cultura-cafe/datos-cafe/cappuccino
Supports: Basic structure of cappuccino as espresso, steamed milk, and foam in balanced proportions.
Perfect Daily Grind — https://www.perfectdailygrind.com/es/2020/03/23/que-es-un-cappuccino-y-como-ha-evolucionado-con-el-tiempo/
Supports: Specialty coffee definitions and typical cappuccino size and foam depth.
L'OR Espresso — https://www.lorespresso.com/es_es/cp/blog/diferencia-latte-capuchino-cafe-con-leche
Supports: Difference between cappuccino and latte, including cup size and milk proportions.
NicaCafe — https://www.niсacafe.shop/que-es-un-cafe-capuchino-y-como-se-prepara/
Supports: Basic recipe proportions and preparation steps, including espresso and milk frothing.