Tag: Steamed milk

While some nutrients like certain B vitamins can be diminished by heat, the total protein content in milk remains stable when steamed. The real story behind whether steamed milk still has protein lies in a physical transformation called denaturation, which actually plays a crucial role in creating a coffee shop's signature microfoam.

According to Arla UK, a flat white made with whole milk has approximately 140 calories, while a latte with the same milk has around 190 calories. The higher calorie count in a latte is primarily due to its larger size and higher milk-to-espresso ratio, which answers the question: are there less calories in a flat white than a latte?.

According to the British Coffee Association, the latte is the UK's most popular coffee shop drink, preferred by 35% of respondents. Despite its popularity, a common misconception is that a latte is made with all milk, which is incorrect as it is a blend of espresso and milk.

Over 90% of coffee shop lattes and cappuccinos in many regions are made with whole milk by default, according to a 2025 analysis. This preference is not arbitrary; the high fat content in whole milk creates the rich, creamy texture and microfoam that baristas use to craft delicious espresso drinks and stunning latte art.

According to coffee experts, a cafe mocha is a chocolate-flavored variant of a classic latte. This popular drink combines the robust flavor of espresso with the sweet, rich taste of chocolate, creating a deliciously satisfying beverage. A cafe mocha typically consists of three primary components: espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk.

Per serving size, cappuccinos and lattes typically contain the same amount of caffeine because they are made with an equal number of espresso shots, usually one or two. The perception of strength, however, comes down to how diluted the coffee flavor is by the milk and foam.

According to a study on milk heating, the process can enhance the beverage's natural sweetness and create a more digestible protein structure. Beyond the chemistry, a complex mix of sensory, psychological, and culinary factors explains why people are drawn to this simple yet satisfying preparation.

While a traditional Italian cappuccino is a small, 5-6 ounce beverage with just one shot, the modern, cafe-sized 16 oz cappuccino standardly contains a double shot of espresso. This expansion from a small, balanced drink to a larger volume, milkier variation has become common practice in coffee shops across the United States and other regions.

According to the U.S. Dairy industry, whole milk contains about 3.25% milkfat, while 2% milk has, as the name suggests, 2% milkfat. This fundamental difference in fat content is crucial when considering whether whole milk or 2% milk is better for coffee, impacting everything from flavor to froth quality.

According to coffee experts, a traditional cappuccino contains equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and airy milk foam, while lattes are composed primarily of steamed milk. This fundamental difference in composition is the key reason why cappuccinos are lower in calories than lattes.