If you’ve ever looked at a creamy, milky latte and wondered, “does latte have coffee in it,” you’re not alone. It’s a common question, and the simple answer is yes, a traditional latte absolutely contains coffee. But there’s more to the story than just a yes or no, especially with the rise of milk alternatives and coffee-free versions.
This guide will explain exactly what a latte is, what’s in it, and how it’s made. We’ll also look at popular variations so you can order or make your next latte with complete confidence.
Does Latte Have Coffee In It
Yes, a classic latte is a coffee drink. Its full name is “caffè latte,” which is Italian for “milk coffee.” The coffee in a latte comes in the form of espresso, which is a strong, concentrated coffee made by forcing hot water through finely-ground beans. Without espresso, it’s not technically a latte—it’s just steamed milk.
The standard build for a latte is quite straightforward: one or two shots of espresso combined with a generous amount of steamed milk and a thin layer of milk foam on top. The coffee flavor is present but mellowed by the milk, making it a popular choice for those who find straight espresso too intense.
The Core Ingredients of a Traditional Latte
Every latte is built on three key components. The ratio of these ingredients is what defines the drink.
- Espresso: This is the coffee base. A single latte typically uses 1-2 shots (about 1-2 ounces) of espresso. This provides the caffeine and the rich coffee flavor.
- Steamed Milk: This is the largest component by volume, usually making up about 2/3 of the drink. The milk is steamed to about 150-155°F, which creates a smooth, slightly sweet texture without scalding.
- Milk Foam: A small amount (about 1/2 inch) of light, airy foam tops the drink. It’s created during the steaming process and adds a pleasant mouthfeel.
How a Barista Makes a Latte: Step-by-Step
Understanding the process shows why the coffee is essential. Here’s how it’s done in a coffee shop.
- Grind and Pull the Espresso: Fresh coffee beans are ground finely and tamped into a portafilter. The espresso machine then pulls 1-2 shots directly into your cup.
- Steam the Milk: Cold milk is poured into a metal pitcher. The barista inserts the steam wand, turning it on to introduce air and create a vortex, heating and texturing the milk simultaneously.
- Combine: The steamed milk is poured directly into the cup with the espresso. The goal is to mix the milk and espresso thoroughly while preserving some foam.
- Top with Foam: The remaining light foam is spooned or poured on top. While latte art is common, it doesn’t change the ingredients—it just shows skillful pouring.
Latte vs. Other Coffee Drinks: A Quick Comparison
It’s easy to mix up lattes with other cafe staples. The main difference lies in the milk-to-espresso ratio and foam texture.
- Cappuccino: Has equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and thick, dry foam. It feels lighter and frothier than a latte.
- Flat White: Originating from Australia/New Zealand, it uses a strong espresso base (often a ristretto shot) and velvety microfoam with little to no loose foam on top. It’s stronger and milkier than a cappuccino but with a more intense coffee taste than a latte.
- Macchiato: An “espresso macchiato” is just espresso “stained” with a tiny dollop of foam. A “latte macchiato” is steamed milk “stained” with a shot of espresso poured on top, creating layered effect.
- Americano: Just espresso diluted with hot water, with no milk unless you add it seperately.
What About Caffeine? How Much is in a Latte?
The caffeine in your latte comes solely from the espresso shots. Since espresso shots are standardized, it’s easy to estimate.
- A single shot of espresso contains about 64 milligrams of caffeine on average.
- A double-shot latte therefore has about 128 milligrams.
- Compare this to a typical 8-ounce drip coffee, which has about 95 milligrams. So a large double-shot latte can actually have more caffeine than a regular cup of coffee.
Remember, the size of the drink doesn’t change the espresso content—a 16-ounce and a 20-ounce latte might both have two shots, meaning the larger one just has more milk.
Popular Latte Variations That Still Contain Coffee
Many flavored drinks are built on the latte foundation. They add syrups or sauces but keep the essential espresso + milk structure.
- Flavored Lattes: Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, and pumpkin spice lattes are all classics. A pump or two of syrup is added to the espresso before the milk is poured.
- Mocha: Essentially a chocolate latte. Chocolate sauce or syrup is mixed with the espresso, then combined with steamed milk. It’s sometimes topped with whipped cream.
- Iced Latte: This is simply espresso poured over cold milk and ice. It’s not blended, and it always contains coffee unless specifically requested otherwise.
When a “Latte” Might NOT Have Coffee
This is where the confusion often arises. The term “latte” has been adopted to describe other drinks that mimic the preparation style but swap out the espresso.
- Chai Latte: The most common coffee-free version. Instead of espresso, a concentrated chai tea mix or brewed spiced tea is combined with steamed milk.
- Matcha Latte: Made with finely powdered green tea (matcha) and steamed milk.
- Turmeric Latte (Golden Milk): A warm drink made with turmeric, spices, and steamed milk.
- Steamed Milk: Sometimes, especially for kids, you can just order a cup of plain steamed milk. A good barista won’t call this a latte, but customers sometimes do.
The key takeaway: if the menu item just says “latte,” it almost certainly contains coffee. If it’s a coffee-free version, it will usally be labeled as “chai latte,” “matcha latte,” etc. Always ask if you’re unsure!
How to Order a Latte Exactly How You Like It
Knowing the basics gives you the power to customize. Here’s your ordering cheat sheet.
- Choose your size: Small (8-12oz), Medium (12-16oz), or Large (16-20oz). Ask how many shots are standard for that size—many shops put two shots in a large, but some charge extra.
- Pick your milk: Whole milk is standard and creates the creamiest foam. You can choose skim, 2%, or alternatives like oat, almond, soy, or coconut milk. Each changes the flavor and foam quality.
- Add flavor (optional): Specify the type and number of syrup pumps. Vanilla and caramel are always safe bets.
- Decaf is an option: You can always request decaffeinated espresso shots if you want the taste without the caffeine.
- Temperature: You can ask for it “extra hot” or “kids’ temperature” (warmer than room temperature but not scalding).
Making a Latte at Home Without an Expensive Machine
You don’t need a fancy setup to make a decent latte. Here are a few methods.
With an Espresso Machine
This is the ideal method. Use fresh beans, grind them fine, tamp firmly, and pull your shot. Steam your milk until the pitcher feels warm to the touch and has small, shiny bubbles.
With a Moka Pot and a French Press
- Brew strong coffee using a Moka pot (it makes a strong, espresso-like coffee).
- Heat your milk on the stove until simmering, then pour it into a clean French press.
- Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for 30 seconds until the milk is frothy and doubled in volume.
- Pour the Moka pot coffee into your mug, then add the frothed milk.
With Instant Coffee and a Jar
- Mix 2 teaspoons of instant coffee (or espresso powder), 2 teaspoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of hot water in a tall jar.
- Whisk or shake vigorously for a minute until it becomes a thick, pale foam.
- Heat your milk, then pour it over the foam in your mug. Stir gently to combine.
Common Myths About Lattes Debunked
Let’s clear up a few misconceptions.
- Myth: Lattes are just for people who don’t like coffee. Truth: They are a coffee drink. The milk complements and mellows the espresso, but the coffee flavor is central.
- Myth: A latte is the same as a cappuccino. Truth: As explained above, the ratios of milk and foam are different, leading to a distinct taste and texture.
- Myth: Lattes are always high in calories. Truth: A plain latte with skim milk is relatively low in calories. The calories come from added syrups, whole milk, and whipped cream toppings.
FAQs About Lattes
Does a latte always have caffeine?
A traditional latte made with regular espresso does have caffeine. If you want a caffeine-free version, you must request decaffeinated espresso or order a coffee-free alternative like a herbal tea latte.
What is the difference between a latte and coffee?
“Coffee” usually refers to drip or brewed coffee. A latte is a specific drink made with espresso (a concentrated form of coffee) and steamed milk. All lattes contain coffee, but not all coffee is a latte.
Can you get a latte without coffee?
Yes, but it will be called something else. You can order a steamer (steamed milk), or a specific tea-based latte like a chai latte. If you ask for a “latte” at a coffee shop, they will assume you want espresso.
Is a latte stronger than regular coffee?
In terms of flavor, espresso is more concentrated, but a latte dilutes it with milk. In terms of caffeine, a single-shot latte has less caffeine than a cup of drip coffee, but a double-shot latte often has more. It really depends on the number of shots.
Why are some lattes served in a glass?
This is traditional in some parts of Europe. It allows you to see the beautiful layers between the espresso, milk, and foam. Many cafes still serve lattes in glasses, though paper cups are common for takeaway.
What’s the best milk for a latte?
Whole milk is the barista standard because its fat content creates a rich, sweet, and stable foam. For non-dairy options, oat milk is widely regarded as the best alternative because it steams and textures remarkably similar to cow’s milk.
Final Thoughts on Your Latte Questions
So, does a latte have coffee in it? Absolutely. The espresso is its defining feature. Whether you enjoy it plain, flavored, iced, or with alternative milks, that coffee base is what makes it a latte. The world of lattes is versatile, but now you know the core truth: no espresso, no latte.
Next time you’re at a cafe, you can order with the knowledge of exactly what you’re getting. And if you want something without coffee, you know to look for the specific “chai” or “matcha” label. Enjoy your perfectly tailored next cup—you’ve earned it after all this learning.