Cappuccino

What is Cappuccino?

Cappuccino is a coffee drink made by pouring espresso into a small cup, then adding steamed milk and topping it with a thick layer of milk foam. The drink is light brown to beige in color, reflecting the mix of dark coffee and white milk. Its texture is creamy, with a velvety foam on top. Sometimes, it is finished with a dusting of cocoa or cinnamon. The balance of strong espresso and sweet, airy milk foam gives it a rich but smooth taste.

Where does Cappuccino come from?

Cappuccino comes from Italy, but its roots trace back to the Habsburg monarchy, where a similar drink called Kapuziner appeared in Viennese coffee houses in the late 1700s. The name refers to the brown color of the Capuchin friars' robes. In Italy, the word 'cappuccino' was used in the 19th century for coffee with a little milk or cream. The modern version with espresso and steamed milk developed in the 20th century, after espresso machines became common.

How is Cappuccino made?

To make a traditional cappuccino, a shot of espresso is poured into a small cup. Steamed milk is added, followed by a thick cap of milk foam. The milk is steamed to create a stable, velvety foam, which is key to the drink's texture. In some countries, a sprinkle of cocoa or chocolate powder is added on top. The drink is usually served in a cup holding about 150 to 180 ml.

How and when is Cappuccino eaten?

In Italy and much of Europe, cappuccino is mainly a breakfast drink, often enjoyed with a pastry. Italians typically drink it before 11:00 am, as milk-based drinks are considered too heavy for later in the day. In other countries, it is consumed throughout the day. Cappuccino is served hot in a small cup with a handle, and is not usually paired with meals.

Kinds of Cappuccino

Variations include using cream instead of milk, non-dairy milk substitutes, or adding flavorings like cocoa powder (common in Europe and Australasia) or cinnamon (in the US and South Korea). In Greece and Cyprus, a cold version called freddo cappuccino is made by pouring espresso over ice and topping it with cold milk foam. Commercial chains in the US often serve larger sizes.

What Cappuccino means

Cappuccino is a symbol of Italian coffee culture and is closely linked to breakfast traditions. In Italy, it is rarely drunk after the morning. The drink has spread worldwide, becoming popular in coffee shops from the United States to South Korea. The World Barista Championships require competitors to prepare cappuccinos, highlighting its role in professional coffee making.

Questions people ask about Cappuccino

Good reading and sources

• Cappuccino on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data