What's better for you, a latte or a cappuccino?

January 14, 2026 •

4 min read

According to coffee experts, cappuccinos typically contain fewer calories than lattes due to having less milk. However, a truly informed decision on what's better for you, a latte or a cappuccino, depends on a closer look at their preparation, nutritional values, and how they fit your personal health goals.

Quick Summary

This article explores the key differences between a latte and a cappuccino, including ingredient ratios, calorie counts, and milk options, to help you make an informed choice based on taste and health preferences.

Key Points

Less Milk, Fewer Calories: A cappuccino is generally lower in calories and fat because it uses less milk than a latte.
Different Textures: A cappuccino has a thick, airy foam layer, while a latte features a thin, silky microfoam.
Stronger vs. Milder Flavor: Cappuccinos have a more intense espresso taste, while lattes are creamier and milkier.
Caffeine Content is Similar: The amount of caffeine is typically the same in both drinks since they are built on a similar espresso base.
Customization is Key: You can make either drink healthier by opting for low-fat or plant-based milks and avoiding added sugars and syrups.
Serving Size Varies: A traditional cappuccino is served in a smaller cup than a latte, which accounts for some of the caloric differences.

Comparing the Basics: What Defines a Latte and a Cappuccino?

At their core, both a latte and a cappuccino are espresso-based beverages featuring steamed and frothed milk. However, their fundamental difference lies in the ratio of these components, which impacts everything from flavor and texture to nutritional content. A classic cappuccino is a three-layered drink, made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and a thick, airy layer of milk foam. This balance results in a strong, coffee-forward taste. A latte, by contrast, is characterized by a higher ratio of steamed milk to espresso, topped with only a very thin layer of milk foam. The result is a smoother, milkier, and creamier beverage with a more subdued espresso flavor.

Milk and Flavor Profiles

Choosing between a cappuccino and a latte often comes down to personal taste preference. The lower milk content and substantial foam in a cappuccino allows the robust espresso flavor to stand out more prominently. The dry, meringue-like foam adds a distinct texture that is a hallmark of the drink. In a latte, the larger volume of steamed milk mellows the espresso's intensity, creating a sweet and creamy profile. The thin, velvety layer of microfoam blends seamlessly with the steamed milk, providing a smooth finish.

Nutritional Differences: The Calorie and Fat Story

When considering which is better for you from a health perspective, the milk content is the most significant factor. Since a latte is primarily composed of steamed milk, it naturally contains more calories and fat than a cappuccino of the same size, especially when made with whole milk. For example, a 12-ounce latte with whole milk can have over 200 calories, while a similar cappuccino might hover around 130 calories. The thick foam of a cappuccino adds volume without significant calories, keeping the overall count lower. However, this is largely dependent on the type of milk used and the addition of sweeteners or flavorings. Switching to skim or almond milk for either drink can drastically reduce the calorie and fat content.

Customization and Considerations

Both drinks offer plenty of room for customization to align with your health goals. While a cappuccino is lower in calories by default, a latte can be made healthier with mindful substitutions. Plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk are excellent alternatives that can reduce both calories and fat, catering to dietary needs such as veganism or lactose intolerance. It's crucial to remember that adding sugars and flavored syrups will significantly increase the caloric and sugar load for either drink. Opting for the basic version and adding your own sweetener is the best way to control these factors.

Cappuccino vs. Latte Comparison Table


Feature	Cappuccino	Latte
Ratio	1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk, 1/3 foam	1/3 espresso, 2/3 steamed milk, thin layer of foam
Flavor	Stronger, more intense espresso flavor	Milder, creamier, and sweeter
Texture	Distinct layers with a thick, airy foam	Smooth and velvety, with microfoam mixed in
Milk Volume	Less milk overall	More milk overall
Traditional Serving Size	Smaller cup (e.g., 6 oz)	Larger glass (e.g., 12 oz)
Calories (with whole milk)	Typically lower (approx. 120-150)	Typically higher (approx. 150-200)
Caffeine	Same as a latte (based on espresso shots)	Same as a cappuccino (based on espresso shots)

The Verdict: Which Is Really Better?

Determining what's better for you, a latte or a cappuccino, ultimately depends on your personal health priorities and taste preferences. If you are looking to minimize calories and prefer a stronger coffee taste, a cappuccino is likely the better option by default, thanks to its lower milk content. However, if you enjoy a creamier, milder beverage, a latte is still a perfectly healthy choice, provided you control the milk type and added sugars. Both beverages can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. The key is to be mindful of your choices, especially concerning the milk and sweeteners you include. For an in-depth exploration of coffee health, including antioxidants and effects on weight loss, a comprehensive resource is available through Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323695.

Conclusion: Your Coffee, Your Choice

Whether you gravitate towards the robust flavor and lighter calorie count of a cappuccino or the creamy, mellow smoothness of a latte, both have a place in a healthy lifestyle. The answer to which is 'better' for you is not a fixed one, but rather a reflection of your individual palate and health goals. By understanding the core differences—primarily the milk and foam ratios—you can confidently order or brew the perfect drink for you. A basic cappuccino made with skim milk will be your lightest option, while a whole milk latte is a more decadent choice. With the right adjustments, both can be a delightful and healthy part of your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

A cappuccino is generally healthier because it contains less milk, resulting in fewer calories and less fat than a latte of the same size.

A cappuccino tastes stronger because it has a higher ratio of espresso to milk and foam. However, a standard cappuccino and latte often contain the same amount of caffeine because they are made with the same number of espresso shots.

Yes, a latte can be made healthier by using low-fat or non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or oat milk and by avoiding high-sugar flavor syrups.

The texture difference comes from the milk foam. A cappuccino has a thick, airy layer of frothed milk foam, while a latte has a thin, smooth layer of microfoam that integrates with the steamed milk.

Yes, adding flavored syrups and extra sugar can significantly increase the calorie and sugar content of both drinks, negating the health benefits of choosing a lower-calorie option.

For a healthier choice, skim milk or non-dairy milks like almond milk are good options as they are lower in calories and fat than whole milk. However, whole milk froths best for a creamier texture.

No, both a latte and a cappuccino typically contain the same amount of caffeine, as their base is the same number of espresso shots.