What is the main difference between a macchiato and a latte?

The main difference is the milk-to-espresso ratio, with a macchiato using mostly espresso and a dollop of foam, while a latte uses mostly steamed milk with a thin layer of foam.

Which drink is stronger, a macchiato or a latte?

The macchiato is stronger because it contains a full shot of espresso with only a small amount of milk, whereas a latte dilutes the same shot with a large volume of steamed milk.

Is a macchiato just a smaller latte?

No, a macchiato is not a smaller latte because its composition is espresso-forward with minimal milk, while a latte is milk-forward with a much higher milk-to-espresso ratio.

Which drink is more expensive, a macchiato or a latte?

A macchiato is typically less expensive than a latte because it uses the same espresso shot but far less milk and no additional flavoring, reducing the ingredient cost.

Is a macchiato safe for people who are lactose intolerant?

Yes, a traditional macchiato is safer for lactose intolerance because it contains only a small foam dollop, whereas a latte contains a large amount of milk that can trigger symptoms.

What is the most common mistake when ordering a macchiato?

The most common mistake is expecting a caramel-flavored drink, because a traditional macchiato is just espresso with milk foam, not the sweet layered beverage sold by some chains.

Can you substitute a macchiato for a latte in a recipe?

You can substitute a macchiato for a latte in a recipe, but the result will be much stronger and less creamy, so you must add extra milk to match the latte's texture.

Are macchiato and latte interchangeable for a morning coffee?

They are not interchangeable for a morning coffee because a macchiato delivers a bold, intense flavor in a small cup, while a latte offers a smooth, mild, and larger drink.

Which drink should I choose if I want a creamy coffee?

You should choose a latte for a creamy coffee because it is mostly steamed milk with a velvety texture, while a macchiato is primarily espresso with only a small foam topping.

Can I switch from drinking lattes to macchiatos for fewer calories?

Yes, you can switch from lattes to macchiatos for fewer calories because the macchiato contains only a few tablespoons of milk, while a latte contains a full cup of milk that adds significant calories.

Difference Between

Difference Between Macchiato and Latte

Written byNex Virox Team

Editorial Team

Reviewed byVarshal Nirbhavane

Senior SEO & Organic Growth Professional · 5+ years

Published: August 25, 202618 min read

Quick answer

The main difference between Macchiato and Latte is that a macchiato is mostly espresso with a small amount of milk, while a latte is mostly milk with a small amount of espresso. Macchiato is a bold, concentrated espresso shot topped with a dollop of milk foam, while Latte is a smooth, milky drink made with one or two espresso shots and steamed milk.

Key takeaways

Core distinction: Macchiato means stained with a splash of milk; latte is mostly steamed milk with espresso.
Espresso-to-milk ratio: Macchiato uses roughly 1:2 ratio, while a latte uses about 1:3 or more milk.
Texture and volume: Macchiato has thin microfoam and small size; latte features thick, velvety foam and large cup.
Best-fit use case: Choose macchiato for bold espresso flavor; choose latte for a creamy, mild drink.
Common decision mistake: Ordering a caramel macchiato expecting a traditional macchiato; that drink is actually a latte.

Table of Contents18 sections

Difference Between Macchiato and Latte: Comparison Table

Aspect	Macchiato	Latte
Definition	An espresso "stained" with a small dollop of milk foam.	A milk-forward drink with espresso and steamed milk.
Purpose	Showcases espresso flavor with only a hint of milk.	Softens espresso bitterness with a large milk volume.
Core Mechanism	One or two espresso shots topped with a spoonful of microfoam.	One or two espresso shots combined with 8-10 ounces of steamed milk.
Milk Ratio	Roughly 1 part milk to 4 parts espresso.	Roughly 3 parts milk to 1 part espresso.
Total Volume	Typically 2-3 ounces in a small demitasse cup.	Typically 8-12 ounces served in a tall glass or cup.
Espresso Content	Contains one standard 1-ounce espresso shot.	Contains one or two 1-ounce espresso shots.
Caffeine Strength	Delivers roughly 63-126 mg caffeine per serving.	Delivers roughly 63-126 mg caffeine per serving.
Flavor Profile	Bold, intense, and roasty with a creamy top note.	Mild, sweet, and mellow with dominant milk character.
Texture	Thin liquid with a thick, dense foam cap.	Silky, smooth, and uniformly creamy throughout.
Foam Layer	Features a thick, dry foam layer on top.	Has a thin, wet microfoam layer about 1 cm thick.
Milk Temperature	Milk is typically frothed to 140-150°F.	Milk is steamed to 150-160°F for sweetness.
Preparation Time	Requires about 1-2 minutes to prepare.	Requires about 2-4 minutes to steam and pour.
Equipment Needed	Espresso machine and a milk frother or steam wand.	Espresso machine and a steam wand for milk.
Barista Skill Level	Demands precise foam control to avoid over-milking.	Requires consistent milk steaming and pouring technique.
Cost at Café	Typically costs $2.50-$3.50 per serving.	Typically costs $4.00-$5.50 per serving.
Calorie Count	Contains roughly 10-20 calories per serving.	Contains roughly 120-180 calories per serving.
Carbohydrate Load	Contains about 1-2 grams of carbohydrates.	Contains about 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.
Lactose Level	Contains minimal lactose from the small milk amount.	Contains significant lactose from 8-10 ounces of milk.
Caffeine Boost	Provides a quick, sharp energy spike.	Provides a slower, more sustained energy release.
Customization Options	Limited to syrup drizzles or extra foam.	Accepts syrups, alternative milks, and temperature tweaks.
Milk Alternatives	Works with oat, almond, or soy milk foam.	Works with any milk alternative for steaming.
Regional Variations	Italian style uses a tiny foam cap only.	American style adds more milk and often syrup.
Typical Serving Cup	Served in a small 2-3 ounce demitasse cup.	Served in a tall 8-12 ounce glass or ceramic mug.
Popular Additions	Often paired with caramel drizzle or a raw sugar packet.	Frequently paired with vanilla, hazelnut, or caramel syrup.
Ideal Consumption Time	Best consumed mid-morning or after lunch.	Commonly enjoyed during breakfast or brunch.
Typical Users	Preferred by espresso purists and black-coffee drinkers.	Chosen by those who prefer sweet, milky beverages.
Limitations	Offers little milk to mask bitter espresso notes.	Milk can dilute espresso flavor significantly.
Scalability	Hard to scale up without losing the foam ratio.	Easy to scale to larger cup sizes with milk.
Maintenance	Requires quick cleanup of the demitasse cup.	Requires rinsing the steam wand and glass.
Best-Fit Scenario	Ideal for a quick, strong coffee hit without milk heaviness.	Perfect for a leisurely, creamy, low-acid coffee drink.

What Is Macchiato?

Macchiato is an espresso-based coffee drink topped with a small amount of steamed milk or foam. The name means "stained" or "marked" in Italian, referring to the milk marking the espresso. It exists to deliver bold espresso flavor with just a touch of creaminess.

Definition of Macchiato

A macchiato is a two-ingredient beverage consisting of a single or double shot of espresso "stained" with a small dollop of steamed milk foam or a thin layer of hot milk. The milk softens acidity without diluting the espresso's intensity, preserving a coffee-forward profile.

Key Characteristics of Macchiato

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Small serving	Typically 2-3 ounces total, served in a demitasse cup rather than a large mug.
High coffee ratio	Milk is a garnish, not a base, so espresso dominates the flavor profile.
Minimal milk	Only 1-2 tablespoons of foam or milk are added to the shot.
Bold bitterness	Undiluted espresso keeps bitter and acidic notes fully present.
Distinct layering	Dark espresso sits below a visible white foam cap, creating clear visual separation.
Quick preparation	Baristas make it in under a minute because no milk steaming volume is needed.
Low calories	Contains roughly 5-15 calories, depending on the foam amount used.
Strong caffeine	Delivers about 63-75 mg of caffeine per single shot, concentrated in small volume.
No added sugar	Traditionally served unsweetened, with no syrups or flavorings included.
Regional variation	Latte macchiato inverts the ratio, but the classic stays espresso-forward.

Common Examples of Macchiato

Espresso Macchiato – the Italian original, a single espresso shot topped with one spoonful of milk foam.
Latte Macchiato – steamed milk with an espresso shot poured on top, creating a white drink with a dark mark.
Caramel Macchiato – a Starbucks-style version with vanilla syrup, milk, espresso and a caramel drizzle.
Short Macchiato – a double ristretto shot with foam, served in a small 3-ounce glass.
Long Macchiato – a double espresso pulled longer over hot water, then topped with foam.
Dry Macchiato – uses only thick, dry foam with no liquid milk, keeping the shot even more concentrated.
Wet Macchiato – uses steamed liquid milk instead of foam, making it closer to a small cappuccino.
Iced Macchiato – cold milk over ice with espresso poured on top, popular in fast-food coffee chains.
Mocha Macchiato – adds chocolate syrup to the classic recipe, blending bitter and sweet profiles.
Honey Macchiato – a café specialty that stirs honey into the espresso before adding foam.

Advantages and Limitations of Macchiato

Advantages	Limitations
Preserves full espresso flavor without milk dilution, ideal for purists.	Very small serving size, roughly 2 ounces, leaves many drinkers wanting more volume.
Low in calories and carbohydrates, fitting keto and low-sugar diets.	Too bitter and intense for people who prefer sweet or milky coffee drinks.
Quick to make, so it suits busy cafés and short customer waits.	Easy to confuse with a latte macchiato, causing order errors for newcomers.
Uses minimal milk, so it is cheaper to produce and price lower.	Offers no milk-based creaminess, so it fails as a dessert or comfort drink.
High caffeine concentration per ounce gives a fast energy boost.	Contains around 63-75 mg caffeine per shot, less total caffeine than larger drinks.
Clear visual layering makes it attractive for Instagram-style presentation.	Foam collapses quickly, so it must be consumed within minutes of preparation.
Works well as a post-meal digestif in Italian dining culture.	No customization room for milk types, syrups or sweeteners in traditional form.
Easy to taste espresso bean quality since milk does not mask defects.	Harsh acidity in low-quality beans becomes unpleasantly prominent.
Serves as a base for experimenting with alternative milks like oat or almond.	Alternative milks foam poorly, often collapsing into a watery mess.
Strong cultural authenticity, tied directly to Italian espresso tradition.	Caramel versions are often 200+ calories, destroying the low-calorie advantage.

What Is Latte?

Latte is an espresso-based drink made with one or two shots of espresso and a large amount of steamed milk, topped with a thin layer of microfoam. It exists to deliver a smooth, milky coffee that softens espresso's intensity, making it a popular, approachable daily choice.

Definition of Latte

Latte is a coffee beverage composed of approximately one part espresso to three parts steamed milk, finished with a 1-centimeter layer of velvety microfoam. The high milk-to-espresso ratio produces a mildly caffeinated, creamy drink that is typically served in a 240-milliliter glass or cup.

Key Characteristics of Latte

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
High milk ratio	Contains roughly two parts steamed milk per one part espresso, creating a mild coffee flavor.
Thin microfoam	Has a fine, glossy foam layer of about 1 centimeter, not stiff or dry.
Large serving size	Served in a 240-milliliter glass, which is bigger than a cappuccino or macchiato.
Mild coffee taste	Espresso is heavily diluted, so the milk flavor dominates the overall profile.
Low caffeine punch	Contains one or two espresso shots, yielding roughly 63 to 126 milligrams of caffeine.
Smooth texture	Steamed milk creates a creamy, silky mouthfeel without the stiffness of dry foam.
Highly customizable	Accepts syrups, alternative milks, and flavorings without losing its balanced base structure.
Latte art canvas	Its thin foam allows baristas to pour rosetta and heart patterns with ease.
Temperature range	Typically steamed to 55 to 65 degrees Celsius, preserving milk sweetness.
Not espresso-forward	Lacks the bitter, concentrated punch of straight espresso or a macchiato's boldness.

Common Examples of Latte

Caffè Latte – the classic Italian version, served in a glass with just espresso and hot milk.
Vanilla Latte – adds vanilla syrup to the base, making the drink sweet and aromatic.
Caramel Latte – blends caramel sauce into the milk, giving a buttery, sweet finish.
Pumpkin Spice Latte – a seasonal fall drink mixing pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Matcha Latte – replaces espresso with green tea powder, creating a vibrant, earthy drink.
Chai Latte – uses spiced black tea concentrate instead of espresso, offering a fragrant alternative.
Honey Latte – sweetened with honey, offering a natural, floral flavor without refined sugar.
Flat White Latte – a denser, stronger latte with ristretto shots and less foam.
Oat Milk Latte – substitutes dairy with oat milk, giving a naturally sweet, creamy texture.
Mocha Latte – adds chocolate syrup to the classic latte, producing a dessert-like coffee.

Advantages and Limitations of Latte

Advantages	Limitations
Very approachable for new coffee drinkers because the milk masks espresso's bitterness.	Contains a high amount of milk, which can be heavy, high in calories, and hard to digest.
Highly versatile, accepting syrups, spices, and alternative milks without breaking structure.	Its mild flavor means the espresso quality is often hidden, so low-grade beans go unnoticed.
Larger volume than other espresso drinks, making it last longer and feel more satisfying.	Dilutes the caffeine concentration, so each sip delivers less coffee impact than a macchiato.
Thin foam makes it ideal for practicing latte art, improving barista skill.	Steamed milk can mask a stale or burnt espresso shot, hiding quality issues from the drinker.
Pairs well with breakfast foods, pastries, and desserts due to its neutral, creamy base.	Requires a proper espresso machine and steam wand, making it impractical to make at home.
Can be served hot or cold, giving year-round flexibility for seasonal preferences.	Its large size means it cools down quickly, losing the intended warmth within minutes.
Milk adds protein and calcium, making it more nutritionally substantial than black coffee.	Lactose-intolerant drinkers need alternative milks, which alter the taste and cost more.
Offers a blank canvas for syrups and spices, encouraging creative flavor combinations.	Too many add-ons can turn it into a dessert, masking the coffee entirely.
Widely available at every coffee shop, including fast-food chains, ensuring easy access.	Overheating milk above 65°C destroys its sweetness, creating a flat, scorched taste.
Its mild flavor works well for those who want coffee's ritual without its sharpness.	Offers less coffee flavor per ounce than a cappuccino, flat white, or macchiato.

Similarities Between Macchiato and Latte

Shared Aspect	How Macchiato and Latte Are Alike
Espresso Base	Both macchiato and latte start with a foundational shot of espresso as their primary coffee ingredient.
Dairy Component	Both macchiato and latte traditionally include steamed milk, making them milk-based espresso beverages.
Milk Foam	Both macchiato and latte feature frothed milk, though the macchiato uses less foam than the latte.
Coffee Category	Both macchiato and latte belong to the espresso-based drink family served in cafés worldwide.
Hot Serving	Both macchiato and latte are typically served hot, with the espresso and milk heated to serving temperature.
Morning Use	Both macchiato and latte are popular morning choices for people seeking a caffeine boost.
Caffeine Source	Both macchiato and latte derive their caffeine exclusively from the espresso shots they contain.
Barista Craft	Both macchiato and latte require a barista to pull espresso and steam milk using professional equipment.
Milk Steaming	Both macchiato and latte use milk that is steamed to create a creamy, aerated texture.
Italian Origin	Both macchiato and latte trace their roots to Italy, where espresso culture first defined these drinks.
Customizable Milk	Both macchiato and latte can be made with dairy, oat, almond, or soy milk alternatives.
Sweetener Addition	Both macchiato and latte accept added sugar, syrup, honey, or flavored sweeteners for taste.
Small Serving	Both macchiato and latte are served in smaller cups compared to drip coffee servings.
Flavor Profile	Both macchiato and latte offer a balanced, smooth flavor that softens espresso bitterness.
Espresso Ratio	Both macchiato and latte contain espresso as the dominant coffee element in their recipes.
Temperature Range	Both macchiato and latte are served between 140°F and 160°F for optimal drinking comfort.
Preparation Time	Both macchiato and latte take roughly two to three minutes for a skilled barista to prepare.
Equipment Needs	Both macchiato and latte require an espresso machine with a steam wand for proper creation.
Menu Presence	Both macchiato and latte appear on nearly every café and coffee chain menu globally.
Consumer Base	Both macchiato and latte appeal to coffee drinkers who prefer milk over black coffee.
Calorie Range	Both macchiato and latte contain similar calorie counts when made with the same milk type.
Fat Content	Both macchiato and latte carry comparable fat levels based on the milk percentage selected.
Protein Source	Both macchiato and latte provide protein from the milk, contributing a small nutritional value.
Quality Standards	Both macchiato and latte rely on fresh espresso beans and properly steamed milk for quality.
Freshness Factor	Both macchiato and latte degrade quickly and must be consumed within minutes after preparation.
Barista Skill	Both macchiato and latte test a barista's ability to control milk texture and espresso extraction.
Temperature Control	Both macchiato and latte depend on precise temperature management to avoid burnt milk.
Flavor Variation	Both macchiato and latte can be flavored with caramel, hazelnut, or vanilla syrups.
Cultural Role	Both macchiato and latte serve as everyday coffee rituals in café culture across many countries.
Long-Term Habit	Both macchiato and latte are repeat-purchase staples for regular coffee drinkers over years.

Macchiato or Latte: Which Should You Choose?

The one variable that decides it for most people is milk volume. A macchiato is a bold espresso shot with a dollop of foam, while a latte is a mild, milky drink. If you want coffee flavor to dominate, choose a macchiato; if you want a smooth, creamy beverage, choose a latte.

When to Use Macchiato

Choose Macchiato when you want a strong coffee flavor without dilution. It suits those who prefer a quick, intense espresso experience, often in a small 2-3 ounce serving. It is also the ideal pick when you are watching calories, since a traditional macchiato contains less than one ounce of milk.

When to Use Latte

Choose Latte when you want a large, comforting drink that lasts longer, typically 8-12 ounces. It is perfect for pairing with flavored syrups like vanilla or caramel, as the milk softens the espresso. It is also the better choice if you prefer a low-caffeine, high-volume drink that is easier on your stomach.

Common Misconceptions About Macchiato and Latte

Common Myth	The Reality
A macchiato is just a smaller latte with less milk.	A macchiato is espresso stained with a small milk dollop, while a latte is mostly steamed milk with a single espresso shot.
A latte contains more espresso than a macchiato.	A latte uses one or two espresso shots, but a macchiato uses the same amount; the ratio of milk to coffee differs, not the coffee volume.
Macchiato means "stained" because it has chocolate on top.	Macchiato means “stained” in Italian, referring to espresso marked with a small amount of milk, not chocolate.
Latte is an Italian word for a specific coffee drink.	In Italy, latte means plain milk; ordering a “latte” there gives you a glass of milk, not a coffee beverage.
A macchiato is always served hot.	Traditional macchiatos are hot, but iced caramel macchiatos exist at chains, making temperature a style choice rather than a fixed rule.
A latte has a strong coffee flavor because it has more shots.	A latte contains 1-2 shots but 8-12 ounces of milk, which dilutes the espresso flavor significantly compared to a macchiato.
All macchiatos are the same worldwide.	Traditional Italian macchiatos are espresso-based, but Starbucks’ caramel macchiato is a latte with vanilla syrup and caramel drizzle.
A macchiato has no foam.	A traditional macchiato includes a small dollop of milk foam, which is the key marker that distinguishes it from a plain espresso.
A latte is stronger than a macchiato.	A macchiato is stronger because it has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio, while a latte is milk-dominant and milder in caffeine intensity per ounce.
Macchiato means “stained” because of coffee stains on the cup.	Macchiato means “stained” because the espresso is stained by a small amount of milk, not because of any cup residue.
You can make a latte without an espresso machine.	A latte requires espresso as its base, so you need a machine or strong coffee substitute; instant coffee won’t produce a true latte.
A macchiato contains more caffeine than a latte.	Both drinks typically use the same number of espresso shots, so caffeine is equal, but the macchiato tastes stronger due to less milk.
A latte is a type of cappuccino with more foam.	A latte has more milk and less foam than a cappuccino, which has equal parts espresso, milk, and foam.
Macchiato is a dessert drink with caramel.	Traditional macchiato is unsweetened espresso with milk, but caramel macchiatos are a commercial variation, not the original style.
A latte must be served in a glass cup.	Lattes are often served in ceramic cups, but glass is common for iced versions; the cup material is not a defining factor.
You can order a macchiato with oat milk and still call it traditional.	Oat milk alters the texture and flavor, so it’s a modern adaptation, not a traditional macchiato which uses dairy milk.
Latte art is exclusive to lattes.	Latte art is possible on any espresso-based drink with micro-foam, including macchiatos, though the smaller surface area limits designs.
A macchiato is a latte with extra espresso.	A macchiato is espresso with a tiny milk stain, whereas a latte is milk with espresso; they are structurally opposite drinks.
Latte and cappuccino are the same drink with different names.	A latte has more milk and less foam, while a cappuccino has equal parts espresso, milk, and foam, making them distinct.
A macchiato is always served in a small glass.	Traditional macchiatos are served in small cups, but commercial versions come in large glasses, so the vessel is not a fixed rule.
Latte is a low-calorie drink.	A latte is high in calories due to 8-12 ounces of milk, whereas a macchiato is lower in calories because it uses only a small milk dollop.
Macchiato is a type of latte with caramel syrup.	Traditional macchiato is a distinct espresso drink, and caramel macchiato is a chain invention, not a category of latte.
A latte has no foam at all.	A latte has a thin layer of micro-foam, about 1-2 cm, but it’s less foamy than a cappuccino’s thick foam layer.
You can use any coffee beans for a macchiato.	Macchiato traditionally uses espresso roast beans, but any coffee can be used, though the flavor profile changes significantly.
Macchiato is a newer invention than latte.	Macchiato dates back to the 20th century in Italy, while latte as a coffee drink is a modern adaptation from the 1980s in the US.
A latte is a breakfast drink, but a macchiato is for dessert.	Both are coffee drinks consumed any time; a macchiato is not a dessert, though caramel versions are sweeter.
Macchiato has no milk at all.	A macchiato has a small amount of milk, typically 1-2 teaspoons, which is enough to stain the espresso but not dilute it.
Latte is a type of espresso.	A latte is an espresso-based drink, but it is not a type of espresso; espresso is the base ingredient, not the final drink.
A macchiato is a latte with no foam.	A macchiato has a small foam dollop, while a latte has a thin foam layer; the key difference is the milk-to-espresso ratio, not foam presence.
Macchiato is a flavor, not a drink type.	Macchiato is a drink type defined by espresso and milk ratio, but caramel macchiato adds flavor, confusing people into thinking it’s a flavor.

Conclusion

Difference Between Macchiato and Latte comes down to milk volume and intensity. A macchiato is mostly espresso with a small milk dollop, delivering bold, strong coffee flavor. A latte is mostly steamed milk with a light espresso base, offering a smooth, mellow drink. Choose macchiato for intensity, latte for creaminess.

FAQs on Difference Between Macchiato and Latte

What is the main difference between a macchiato and a latte?: The main difference is the milk-to-espresso ratio, with a macchiato using mostly espresso and a dollop of foam, while a latte uses mostly steamed milk with a thin layer of foam.
Which drink is stronger, a macchiato or a latte?: The macchiato is stronger because it contains a full shot of espresso with only a small amount of milk, whereas a latte dilutes the same shot with a large volume of steamed milk.
Is a macchiato just a smaller latte?: No, a macchiato is not a smaller latte because its composition is espresso-forward with minimal milk, while a latte is milk-forward with a much higher milk-to-espresso ratio.
Which drink is more expensive, a macchiato or a latte?: A macchiato is typically less expensive than a latte because it uses the same espresso shot but far less milk and no additional flavoring, reducing the ingredient cost.
Is a macchiato safe for people who are lactose intolerant?: Yes, a traditional macchiato is safer for lactose intolerance because it contains only a small foam dollop, whereas a latte contains a large amount of milk that can trigger symptoms.
What is the most common mistake when ordering a macchiato?: The most common mistake is expecting a caramel-flavored drink, because a traditional macchiato is just espresso with milk foam, not the sweet layered beverage sold by some chains.
Can you substitute a macchiato for a latte in a recipe?: You can substitute a macchiato for a latte in a recipe, but the result will be much stronger and less creamy, so you must add extra milk to match the latte's texture.
Are macchiato and latte interchangeable for a morning coffee?: They are not interchangeable for a morning coffee because a macchiato delivers a bold, intense flavor in a small cup, while a latte offers a smooth, mild, and larger drink.
Which drink should I choose if I want a creamy coffee?: You should choose a latte for a creamy coffee because it is mostly steamed milk with a velvety texture, while a macchiato is primarily espresso with only a small foam topping.
Can I switch from drinking lattes to macchiatos for fewer calories?: Yes, you can switch from lattes to macchiatos for fewer calories because the macchiato contains only a few tablespoons of milk, while a latte contains a full cup of milk that adds significant calories.