Inside the Lab

What is a Cappuccino?

A Cappuccino is a timeless Italian Classic. Few coffee drinks are as well-known and as loved as the cappuccino. Originally it’s from Italy, and has become a staple of café menus all over the world. Traditionally, it’s made from three equal parts: espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. This balance gives the drink its signature creamy texture and harmonious flavor. While the recipe sounds simple, the beauty of a cappuccino lies in the craft of making it – and the ritual of enjoying it.

The Anatomy of a Cappuccino

A classic cappuccino is usually served in a 200-250 ml cup, smaller than a latte but larger than a macchiato. Our cappuccino cup is 250 ml and you can check it out here. The structure of the Cappuccino is:
Espresso: The strong base.
Steamed milk: Adds smoothness and sweetness.
Foamed milk: A thick, airy layer on top, often used for latte art.
The foam is what sets cappuccino apart. It should be dense and velvety, not dry or bubbly. When done right, you get an indulgent but balanced drink where no element overpowers the other.

Cappuccino vs other coffee drinks

It’s easy to confuse cappuccino with other milk-based espresso drinks. Here’s how they compare some of the most common:
Latte: Served in a larger cup with more steamed milk and a thinner layer of foam – milder and creamier.
Flat white: Similar to a latte but smaller – smoother, more velvety.
Cortado: Equal parts espresso and milk, but no foam – more intense, with a silky texture.
You can read more about the different types via the links above.

A Cappuccino in the morning

In Italy, cappuccino is considered a morning drink, often paired with a pastry like a croissant or brioche. Locals rarely order it after 11 a.m., as milk-heavy drinks are traditionally seen as breakfast-only. Outside Italy, the rules are more relaxed – in our cafés you’ll find cappuccinos enjoyed any time of day, whether it’s a morning pause, an afternoon treat, or a cozy evening ritual. Part of the charm lies in the experience: the warmth of the cup in your hands, and the aroma of espresso. It’s as much about comfort as it is about caffeine.

How to brew a great Cappuccino at home

Brewing a cappuccino like in our cafés doesn’t require a professional setup – just attention to detail:
1. Pull a double shot of espresso – we can recommend our Campo das Vertentes or Finca Ceylan which we normally use in our own cafés.
2. Steam the milk to around 65°C – aim for a velvety texture with dense foam.
3. Pour in layers – espresso first, then steamed milk in a circle to mix the espresso and milk, and finally top with foam. When you have tried it a couple of times and nailed the milky foam, try to finish with latte art.
As for any coffee drink, the quality of the beans makes all the difference. Choose freshly roasted coffee with flavor notes you love – whether chocolatey, nutty, or fruity. When you order on our webshop, we always make sure that the coffee you get is roasted freshly – ready to brew.

The cappuccino has earned its place as a coffee icon for good reason. Its recipe hasn’t changed much in decades, and yet it continues to feel timeless. It’s comforting, perfectly balanced, and flavorful. For anyone curious about espresso-based drinks, the cappuccino is a must-know – and once you try it, it just might become your go-to.