How do you make a Cappuccino differently from a Hot Latte?

Making a cappuccino differs from preparing a hot latte primarily in the texture and amount of milk foam used. In a cappuccino, a key characteristic is the generous layer of foam that sits atop the espresso and steamed milk. This foam creates a balanced texture and visual appeal that distinguishes it from a latte, which consists of more steamed milk and typically only a thin layer of foam on the surface.

When you do not hold back on foam while making a cappuccino, you ensure that the drink has that signature frothy top, which is lighter and airier compared to a latte's creamier consistency. This difference in foam is what defines the cappuccino and contributes to its unique flavor profile and drinking experience.

Adding more sugar, using less espresso, or stirring less do not capture the essence of how cappuccinos are traditionally crafted in comparison to lattes, as each has different configurations of milk and foam that prioritize the drink's characteristics.