Deciding what to order can be difficult when you're at a coffee shop.
Sure, there are drinks like Americanos and lattes that are almost universal, but there are plenty of other options to consider.
Two of the most popular, the iced cappuccino and iced latte, share some similarities but also have major differences.
Quick Answer: What is the difference between an iced cappuccino and an iced latte?
The main difference between an iced cappuccino and an iced latte is the milk and foam ratio. An iced cappuccino uses equal parts espresso, milk, and foam, creating a stronger, frothier drink. An iced latte uses 180-240 ml of milk with light foam, producing a smoother, creamier, and more milk-forward flavor.
Many differences make these iced coffees unique and flavorful in their own way.
In this article, I'll go over all the differences so you can make an informed decision about which drink suits you best!
Iced cappuccino vs. iced latte, how do they differ?
Iced cappuccinos and iced lattes are very similar, as they both use the same ingredients. Although they share many similarities, there are also many differences.
Below, I've listed a quick overview of all the differences between an iced cappuccino and an iced latte:
| Comparison: | Iced cappuccino: | Iced latte: |
| Espresso? | Yes, single or double espresso shot | Yes, two espresso shots |
| Milk? | 1/2 cup (0.12 l) of 2% fat milk | 3/4 cup (0.18 l) of 2% fat milk |
| Flavor notes | Creamy, frothy, and espresso-forward flavor | Subtle, mellow, and milk-forward flavor |
| Caffeine content | 68mg or 136mg of caffeine | 136mg of caffeine |
| Number of calories | 61 calories | 92 calories |
| Add-ins? | A dusting of cinnamon, coffee syrup | Optionally a coffee syrup |
Now that you know about all the differences between these delicious iced coffees, let's go into more depth about each difference.
Which is stronger, an iced cappuccino or an iced latte?
An iced cappuccino is stronger because it has a higher espresso-to-milk ratio. On the other hand, an iced latte has a higher ratio of milk to espresso, resulting in a milder, weaker flavor overall.
Just like its hot counterpart, the iced cappuccino uses equal parts espresso, milk, and milk foam.
To achieve those equal parts, two espresso shots are used, just like the iced latte. However, the iced latte uses 1/4 cup (0.06 L) more milk than the iced cappuccino.
If you're not a big coffee fan, the iced latte might be a better choice, as it has more milk.
You can also order (or make) both drinks with a single espresso shot to make them less powerful in flavor.
What is the difference in caffeine between these drinks?
Both the iced cappuccino and iced latte use two espresso shots.
However, the iced cappuccino can also be made with a single espresso shot, resulting in less caffeine per serving.
An espresso shot has 68mg of caffeine. If both drinks use a double espresso shot, they'll have 136mg of caffeine. (source)
Do you like strong coffee? Then, you might like to add more espresso coffee to your iced drinks, which will also increase the caffeine content.
Tip: Learn how to make red eye coffee here if you like to drink high-caffeinated coffee!
Is there a difference in calories between an iced cappuccino and an iced latte?
Yes, there is a difference in calories between an iced cappuccino and an iced latte. An iced cappuccino has fewer calories because it contains less milk than an iced latte. An iced latte uses more milk, which means it has more calories.
When comparing these drinks without any add-ins, they'll have the following number of calories:
- An iced cappuccino has 61 calories per serving
- While an iced latte has 92 calories per serving
Depending on the cafe you go to, the number of calories can be higher. Most cafes add coffee syrup to their iced coffees.
You can also make these coffee syrups very quickly if you're at home. Although they will increase the calorie count, they'll take your iced coffee game to the next level.
Vanilla syrup is one of my all-time favorites. You can check out this recipe to try it yourself.
Do you prefer a different flavored syrup? Have a look at all the coffee syrups you can make at home!
Iced cappuccino vs. iced latte, what is the flavor difference?
An iced cappuccino has more chocolate flavor because it has a higher espresso-to-milk ratio, making it stronger and offering wonderful flavor notes. An iced latte is made with more milk and has a more subtle flavor.
The iced cappuccino is more espresso-based, while a latte is more milk-based. Iced cappuccinos usually have a stronger coffee flavor, while iced lattes have a creamier and smoother flavor.
It all depends on the flavor notes you're looking for in your drink to decide which might suit you best.
Both drinks are made with cold-foamed milk, so they have some texture. However, the iced cappuccino has a thicker foam top, so it has a more textured mouthfeel.
Below, I'll give you my final thoughts on which drink I prefer the most and which is ultimately the better choice for you:
Which is better, an iced cappuccino or an iced latte?
It depends on what you're looking for. An iced cappuccino is more textured and has more foam, while an iced latte is smoother and creamier.
Maybe you've already chosen which coffee suits you better. If that's not the case, I suggest the following:
- Go with the iced cappuccino if you're looking for something creamier, frothier, and stronger in flavor.
- An iced latte is better if you want an iced drink with less coffee flavor and a more milk-forward taste.
Personally, I prefer the iced cappuccino. This is mainly because it has a more robust coffee flavor, which I prefer.
However, both drinks are equally refreshing, and you can't go wrong with either.
I especially like that you can customize it to your liking by using various add-ins!
Related coffee comparison articles
Are you wondering how the iced cappuccino and iced latte compare to other coffees?
Great! Check out the articles below for more in-depth coffee comparisons:
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Americano
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Coffee
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Espresso
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Macchiato
- Iced Latte vs. Iced Mocha
And to compare more coffees, visit the coffee comparison hub!
Conclusion
So there you have it, the difference between an iced cappuccino and an iced latte.
I hope this article has helped clear up any confusion about these two drinks and that you'll be able to order your favorite cold coffee drink with confidence next time you're at your favorite cafe.
Do you like reading about new coffee recipes you can try? Have a look below for some more coffee recipes I've written!
