How to Make a Macchiato

Make the espresso: Use an espresso machine or manual espresso maker to make one shot of espresso* and pour it into a mug (or try our Aeropress Espresso ).

Steam the milk (espresso machine) or heat the milk to scalding: Start with ½ cup milk (you’ll only use ¼ cup foam.) Heat the milk to 150 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot to the touch but not simmering. Measure with a food thermometer, or you can approximate by testing with your finger.

Froth the milk: Use the espresso machine or a milk frother , French press or whisk to froth milk into small, even bubbles. You’ll want lots of “dry foam” for a macchiato: the fluffy stuff! The milk frother is great for this type of foam. We highly recommend reading How to Froth Milk if this is your first time frothing.

Spoon the foam on top: Use a spoon to remove the top of the foam (dry foam) and gently place it on top of the espresso. You should use about ¼ cup foam for one drink.