If you’re an espresso lover, you’ve probably seen these two coffee drinks in coffee shops around the world.
You might have even been confused as to what separates a mochaccino and a macchiato. So, what is the difference?
The main difference between a mochaccino and a macchiato is that a mochaccino contains chocolate, while a macchiato does not. A mochaccino is made from espresso, steamed milk, and chocolate syrup, while a macchiato is made from espresso with just a dollop of milk foam on top.
This article will give you an overview of both drinks, as well as a few helpful tips for deciding which is better for you.
Mochaccino vs. macchiato, how do they differ?
Now that you know the main difference between these coffee drinks, you can have a look below at the key differences that make them different from one another:
| Comparison: | Mochaccino: | Macchiato: |
| Coffee? | Yes, one espresso shot | Yes, two espresso shots |
| Milk used? | Yes, 2 oz (60 ml) of milk | Yes, 1 oz (30 ml) of milk |
| Flavor notes | Rich, chocolaty, and creamy flavor | Slightly creamy and espresso-forward flavor |
| Caffeine content | 68mg of caffeine | 136mg of caffeine |
| Number of calories | 110 calories | 17 calories |
| Sweetener used? | Chocolate syrup | No sweetener is added |
| Topping? | Whipped cream | Milk foam topping |
Now that you have a good idea about the differences between a mochaccino and macchiato, let’s go in-depth about each difference.
You’ll have all the information needed to decide which is the better drink for you at the end of the article!
What is a mochaccino?
A mochaccino is a coffee-based beverage that typically contains espresso, chocolate syrup, and steamed milk. It is similar to a cappuccino but with more chocolate flavor.
It’s usually topped with a good serving of whipped cream and some chocolate curls for extra flavor and decadency.
If you love a sweet coffee drink that isn’t overpowering, then you’ll love the mochaccino.
You can check out this complete recipe to make a mochaccino at home.
What is a macchiato?
A macchiato is a coffee drink made with espresso and milk, in which the milk is “marked” or “stained” with the espresso.
It is made by combining espresso coffee with a small amount of steamed milk, and it’s then topped with milk foam.
You can make a macchiato with any type of milk, but most commonly, it is made with steamed whole milk.
If you’re interested in making a macchiato at home, you can check out this easy-to-make recipe.
Is there a flavor difference between these coffees?
Mochaccinos and macchiatos both contain espresso and milk, but the main difference is in how much milk is used.
- A mochaccino has more milk than a macchiato, giving it a creamier texture and flavor. Most mochaccinos are also topped with some whipped cream and a few chocolate curls.
- On the other hand, a macchiato is espresso coffee with just a little bit of milk foam on top, making it more robust and having an espresso-forward flavor.
The type of milk used can also affect the flavor. Whole milk is mostly used in recipes that require the milk to be steamed and foamed.
Whole milk makes the most long-lasting foam for hot drinks, while lower-fat milk is best used when making cold foam.
Tip: You can check out this guide to learn about six ways you can froth milk at home!
What is the difference in calories between a mochaccino and macchiato?
The calories in a mochaccino and macchiato vary depending on the recipe, but generally speaking, a mochaccino has more calories because it includes chocolate syrup.
A macchiato typically has fewer calories as it is simply espresso with a small amount of steamed milk.
The homemade mochaccino has 110 calories, while a macchiato has just 17 calories per serving.
Both coffees use whole milk in their recipe, so it’ll be higher in calories than low-fat milk or a milk alternative.
Using different kinds of milk in homemade recipes is great because it’ll change the flavor of your drink slightly, and you can decide if you want to use a low-fat kind.
Mochaccino vs. macchiato, is there a caffeine difference?
There is a difference in caffeine when comparing the mochaccino and macchiato.
A mochaccino uses one shot of espresso, which contains 68mg of caffeine, while a macchiato uses two espresso shots, coming in at 136mg of caffeine. (source)
The macchiato has more caffeine because it includes an extra espresso shot. So if you’re looking for a bigger caffeine kick, go for the macchiato.
But if you’re just looking for a delicious coffee drink, either one will do the trick.
Which is better, a mochaccino or macchiato?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question, as it depends on personal preference.
However, a mochaccino is typically made with espresso, milk, and chocolate syrup, while a macchiato is made with espresso and a small amount of milk.
If you’re not quite sure which of the two coffees fits you better, I recommend the following:
- If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, then the macchiato would be the better choice.
- But if you prefer a sweeter taste, then the mochaccino would be a better fit for you.
In my opinion, a mochaccino in the early morning is a great start to the day, while a macchiato is a delicious treat after lunch or after dinner (made with decaf coffee).
Some people might prefer one over the other because of the different flavors and textures, but they are both quite tasty. Try them both out and see which you like best!
Related coffee comparison articles
Are you wondering how the mochaccino and macchiato compare to other coffees?
Great! Check out the articles below for more in-depth coffee comparisons:
- Caramel Macchiato vs. Caramel Latte
- Macchiato vs. Americano
- Macchiato vs. Cappuccino vs. Latte
- Macchiato vs. Mocha
- Macchiato vs. Piccolo
And to compare more coffees, visit the coffee comparison hub!
Conclusion
So there you have it – the lowdown on mochaccinos and macchiatos. I hope this article has helped to clear up any confusion about these two coffee drinks.
If you’re still unsure which one is right for you, why not try both? They’re both delicious!
You can’t go wrong with either of them, as they’re both made with delicious espresso coffee as the basis.
Do you like reading about the difference between various coffees? Then you can check out some more coffee comparisons below.
