Is a Latte Better Than a Cappuccino or a Flat White?

A caffe latte, or simply latte coffee, is a well-loved coffee drink in Malaysia, often found in trendy cafés and home kitchens.

It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy a milder coffee taste without the bitterness of a strong black coffee, consisting of a smooth, creamy texture and perfect balance of espresso and steamed milk.

In Malaysia, the café culture has been booming, with more people appreciating the art of coffee-making and seeking out the best latte experiences.

Whether you’re sipping on one at a cosy café in KL, grabbing a quick cup from a local barista, or making your own at home, the caffe latte is a versatile and comforting choice for many coffee lovers.

If you're wondering what is latte coffee, how it differs from cappuccino or flat white, or how to make the perfect cup, this guide will break it all down for you.

Key Takeaways

• A caffe latte is an espresso-based coffee drink made with steamed milk and a light layer of foam.
• The latte originated in Italy, where "caffè latte" means "milk coffee," and became globally popular through modern café culture.
• A caffe latte has a smooth, creamy texture with a mild espresso flavour, balanced by the natural sweetness of steamed milk.
• The calorie content varies by milk type, with whole milk lattes averaging 150 kcal per cup, while plant-based options offer lighter alternatives.
• Ideal for those who prefer a mild, balanced coffee, enjoy customisation with flavours, or are new to espresso-based drinks.
• Lattes have more milk and a creamier texture than cappuccinos and flat whites, making them smoother and less intense.
• Brew a strong espresso, steam or froth your preferred milk, and pour it over the espresso for a perfect homemade latte.
• Use freshly ground coffee, steam milk to the right temperature, and pour smoothly for a rich, velvety texture.
• Pair it with pastries or savoury treats, customise it with flavours, enjoy it hot or iced, and set a cosy atmosphere for the best experience.

Is Latte a Coffee? Understanding Caffe Latte and Its Rich Flavour 

A latte is a classic espresso coffee drink that combines a shot (or two) of espresso with steamed milk and a thin layer of microfoam on top.

The result is a smooth, creamy, and well-balanced beverage that is less intense than a straight espresso but still rich in flavour.

It contains more steamed milk, making it milder and creamier. This makes it a favourite among those who enjoy a more balanced coffee experience without an overpowering espresso kick.

In Malaysia, lattes have become a staple in local and international coffee chains, with many cafés offering customised flavours such as vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut lattes.

The Origins of Caffe Latte 

The caffe latte has a long history, tracing its roots back to Europe, particularly Italy, where the term caffè latte literally means “milk coffee” in Italian.

Traditionally, Italians enjoyed a simple combination of coffee and milk at home, especially during breakfast. The version we recognise today—a perfectly balanced mix of espresso, steamed milk, and a light layer of foam—evolved much later.

While Italy popularised the term, caffe latte as a café-style drink gained international recognition in the United States. In the 1980s and 1990s, with the rise of specialty coffee culture, American coffee shops started serving lattes with beautifully textured milk and even latte art, making it a signature offering.

The drink quickly became a global favorite, spreading to cafés worldwide, including Malaysia, where café culture has thrived in recent years.

Today, the caffe latte is enjoyed in countless variations, from classic Italian-style lattes to modern twists like flavoured lattes, matcha lattes, and even plant-based alternatives. 

Mild, Creamy, and Velvety: Why Latte Coffee is the Ultimate Comfort Drink

Malaysians love a caffe latte because of its smooth, creamy, and well-balanced flavour.

Unlike stronger espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos or Americanos, a latte offers a milder coffee experience thanks to the higher milk-to-espresso ratio.

The taste of a latte depends on three key components:

• Espresso: The base of a latte, providing a rich, slightly bitter, and aromatic coffee flavour.
• Steamed Milk: Softens the bitterness of the espresso, adding a velvety texture and natural sweetness.
• Microfoam: A thin layer of foam on top, giving a light, airy finish and allowing for latte art.

For those who enjoy less acidity and bitterness in their coffee, a caffe latte is the perfect option.

Caffe Latte Calories and Nutritional Facts

If you’re wondering about the calories in a caffe latte, the answer depends on the type of milk used and serving size. 

Since a latte is made with espresso and steamed milk, most of its calories come from the milk.

Here’s a general breakdown of caffe latte calories based on different milk choices (for a standard 240ml/8oz serving with one shot of espresso):

(Source: CalorieKing, NutritionValue.org, and SnapCalorie)

While a plain caffe latte can be a relatively healthy coffee choice, added sweeteners and flavoured syrups can increase the calorie count.

Whether you prefer a full-cream indulgence or a light, plant-based version, a latte is a versatile drink that can be customised to fit your dietary preferences.

6 Types of Coffee Lovers Who Will Love a Caffe Latte

Its mild flavour and balanced taste appeal to a wide range of coffee drinkers.

Here’s who would enjoy a caffe latte the most:

1. Coffee Beginners & Casual Drinkers 

A latte is a great starting point if you're new to coffee or prefer a less intense taste.

The steamed milk softens the bitterness of espresso, making it easy to enjoy.

2. People Who Prefer a Milder Coffee Taste 

Compared to black coffee or strong espresso coffee shots, a caffe latte offers a creamy and smooth texture, making it a great choice for those who prefer a milder, less bitter drink.

The higher milk-to-espresso ratio creates a more balanced flavour.

3. Those Who Love Customisation

A latte serves as a great base for flavour experimentation. 

The latte can be easily customised with different syrups and sweeteners, such as vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or matcha.

It can be made with plant-based milk like oats, almonds, or soy for a healthier option.

4. People Who Enjoy Comforting, Warm Drinks

The velvety texture and mild espresso flavour make it a comforting drink for relaxing mornings or cosy evenings.

It pairs well with breakfast foods, pastries, and desserts, making it a go-to choice for coffee breaks.

5. Latte Art Enthusiasts 

If you love the visual appeal of coffee, a latte is the perfect choice for latte art.

The microfoam on top allows baristas (and home brewers) to create beautiful hearts, rosettas, and tulips.

6. Malaysians Who Enjoy Kopitiam Coffee but Want Something Smoother

Love Kopi C or Kopi Susu? A caffe latte offers a similar milky coffee experience but with a more refined, velvety texture.

Many local cafés now offer Asian-inspired latte variations, such as Gula Melaka latte, Pandan latte, and Hojicha latte, which blend traditional flavours with the classic latte.

Want to explore different coffee flavours? Learn more about the rich, creamy Spanish Latte and the bold, classic Americano, and how they compare to other popular coffee drinks.

Caffe Latte Showdown: How It Stacks Up Against Other Coffee Favorites

A caffe latte is one of many espresso-based drinks, but how does it compare to other popular choices like cappuccino and flat white? 

Here’s a breakdown of the key differences to help you choose the perfect coffee for your taste.

Caffe Latte vs Cappuccino

If you prefer a richer, creamier drink, go for a latte. If you love a stronger coffee taste with a frothy texture, cappuccino is the better choice.

Caffe Latte vs Flat White

A latte is a great choice if you enjoy a smooth balance of espresso and milk. Opt for a flat white for a bolder coffee with a richer espresso presence.

Caffe Latte vs Latte (Terminology Confusion)

When travelling, always say “caffe latte” instead of “latte” to ensure you get a proper coffee.

Explore the world of specialty coffee with HWC COFFEE, a top coffee Malaysia brand offering premium blends and expertly crafted brews, including Americano Coffee and Iced Spanish Latte.

How to Make a Caffe Latte at Home

Making a caffe latte at home is easier than you think! 

Using an espresso machine or other brewing methods, you can still enjoy a smooth and creamy latte without heading to a café.

1. Making a Caffe Latte with an Espresso Machine

If you have an espresso machine with a steam wand, follow these steps to create a perfectly textured latte:

What You’ll Need

• Freshly ground espresso beans
• Espresso machine with a steam wand
• Milk of your choice (whole, skim, oat, almond, soy, etc.)
• Milk frothing pitcher
• Coffee cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pull an Espresso Shot

• Grind fresh coffee beans to a fine espresso grind.
• Use 18g of coffee for a double shot.
• Tamp the grounds evenly in the portafilter and pull a 1:2 espresso shot ratio (e.g., 18g coffee to 36g liquid espresso).

2. Steam the Milk

• Pour cold milk into a frothing milk jug (about ¾ full).
• Submerge the steam wand just below the surface and aerate for 2-3 seconds to create a microfoam.
• Position the wand deeper into the milk to heat it to 55-65°C (130-150°F) for a smooth, silky texture.
• Swirl the pitcher to create a uniform microfoam before pouring.

3. Pour and Serve

• Hold the cup at an angle and pour the steamed milk in a slow, steady stream, starting from a height and bringing it closer as the cup fills.
• Finish with a light foam layer on top, or try latte art if you’re feeling creative.

Pro Tip: Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, while oat milk is the best plant-based option for frothing.

2. Making a Caffe Latte Without an Espresso Machine

No espresso machine? No problem! You can still make a delicious homemade latte using other brewing methods.

Alternative Methods to Brew Espresso-Like Coffee

1. French Press – Add finely ground coffee, pour hot water, let it steep for 4 minutes, then press.
2. AeroPress – Use an espresso-style AeroPress method by steeping coffee for 30 seconds before pressing.
3. Moka Pot (Stovetop Espresso Maker) – Brew a strong, concentrated coffee similar to espresso.

How to Froth Milk Without a Steam Wand

1. French Press: Heat the milk, then pump the plunger up and down until foamy.
2. Handheld Milk Frother: Warm and froth the milk using a battery-powered frother.
3. Mason Jar Method: Shake hot milk vigorously in a sealed jar, then microwave for 15 seconds to stabilise the foam.

Final Steps

• Brew your strong coffee using one of the above methods.
• Heat and froth the milk using one of the non-machine techniques.
• Pour the frothed milk over your coffee and enjoy your homemade latte!

Pro Tip: If you love an iced latte, skip steaming the milk—add cold milk and ice cubes over your coffee for a refreshing treat.

Brew the perfect caffe latte at home with HWC COFFEE’s coffee gift set in Malaysia! Get yours today and enjoy café-quality coffee anytime.

7 Tips for Making the Perfect Caffe Latte

Achieving a barista-quality caffe latte at home requires the right techniques for espresso extraction, milk steaming, and pouring.

Here are seven tips to help you make a smooth, creamy, and flavourful latte every time.

1. Use Freshly Ground Coffee Beans

Always use fresh, high-quality coffee beans for a richer and more aromatic espresso base.

Medium or dark roast beans work best for lattes as they pair well with steamed milk.

Use a fine espresso grind for proper extraction—too coarse will make it weak, too fine will over-extract and taste bitter.

2. Master the Espresso Shot

Use 18g of ground coffee for a double shot (for a standard 240ml latte).

Pull the espresso shot using a 1:2 ratio (e.g., 18g coffee to 36g liquid espresso).

A properly extracted shot should have a rich golden crema on top.

Ensure the right grind size and pressure to avoid under-extraction (too sour) and over-extraction (too bitter).

3. Steam the Milk to the Right Temperature

The perfect milk temperature should be between 55°C - 65°C (130°F - 150°F) for a smooth, naturally sweet taste.

Overheating above 70°C (160°F) will burn the milk and create a scorched flavour.

For iced lattes, skip the steaming—use chilled milk over ice.

4. Create Velvety Microfoam

Use a steam wand to introduce air for the first 2-3 seconds, then fully submerge for a silky texture.

The ideal milk foam should be smooth, glossy, and free of large bubbles.

Swirl the milk in the pitcher before pouring to maintain consistency.

Pro Tip: If using plant-based milk, oat milk froths the best, followed by soy and almond milk.

5. Perfect the Pouring Style

Pour slowly and steadily from a height to mix the milk with the espresso.

Lower the pitcher as you pour to create a smooth, creamy texture.

To practice latte art, start by making simple hearts or tulips with controlled wrist movements.

The milk-to-coffee ratio in a caffe latte is typically 2:1, meaning two parts steamed milk to one part espresso.

For a standard 240ml (8oz) caffe latte

• Espresso: 30-60ml (1-2 shots)
• Steamed Milk: 180ml
• Microfoam: A thin layer (about 1-2cm)

This ratio creates a smooth, creamy texture while maintaining a balanced coffee flavour. Adjusting the milk volume can make the latte richer or lighter, depending on your preference.

6. Experiment with Different Milk Options

The type of milk you use in a caffe latte significantly affects its milk texture, taste, and milk volume, influencing the overall creaminess and frothing quality.

Here’s a breakdown of the best milk choices and how they affect your latte experience.

Tip: Try steaming and frothing different milk types separately to compare their texture, sweetness, and foam quality before choosing your perfect latte base.

7. Clean Your Equipment Regularly

Always purge the steam wand before and after steaming milk to prevent residue buildup.

Rinse and clean the portafilter to maintain espresso quality.

Wipe the milk frothing pitcher immediately to avoid dried milk residue.

Want to master espresso and latte art? Join HWC COFFEE's Coffee Academy, the go-to place for barista training in Malaysia.

4 Ways to Enjoy Your Caffe Latte

Having your caffe latte is a moment of comfort and indulgence.

Here’s how to make the most of every sip in a cosy cafe or at home.

1. Pairing Your Caffe Latte with Food

A latte’s smooth, creamy texture makes it perfect for pairing with sweet and savoury treats. 

Pair your caffe latte with these great combinations:

• Classic Pastries – Croissants, muffins, or Danish pastries complement the latte’s mild sweetness.
• Breakfast Pairings – Toast with butter & jam, eggs benedict, or avocado toast.
• Sweet Treats – Chocolate-based desserts, biscotti, or cinnamon rolls enhance the latte’s creamy profile.
• Savoury Pairings – Cheese platters, sandwiches, or smoked salmon bagels add a rich contrast to the latte’s mild flavour.

Tip: For a healthier option, pair your latte with granola, fruit, or whole-grain toast.

2. Personalising Your Latte

One of the best things about a caffe latte is its versatility. You can customise it to match your personal taste with:

• Flavoured Syrups – Add vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, or pandan syrup for a twist.
• Spices & Toppings – Sprinkle cinnamon, cocoa powder, or nutmeg for an aromatic boost.
• Sweetener Alternatives – Swap sugar for honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a natural touch.
• Unique Latte Variations – Try a dirty chai latte (espresso + chai tea) or a matcha latte for something different.

Tip: If you love iced lattes, simply pour over ice for a refreshing version.

3. Creating the Perfect Atmosphere 

Enjoying a latte is about the moment beyond savouring this comforting drink.

Here’s how to elevate your coffee experience:

• Set a cosy vibe – Play soft music, grab a warm blanket, and enjoy your latte in your favourite mug.
• Sip outdoors – Have your coffee on the balcony, by the beach, or at a scenic café for a fresh experience.
• Pair with a good read or podcast – A caffe latte and a good book make the perfect combo!

Tip: Use a ceramic cup instead of a paper cup to keep your latte warmer longer.

4. Latte Rituals for Every Mood

A caffe latte can fit any time of the day:

• Morning Energiser – Start your day with a hot latte and a nutritious breakfast.
• Afternoon Pick-Me-Up – A refreshing iced latte to beat the midday slump.
• Evening Relaxation – A decaf latte with almond or oat milk as a soothing nightcap.

Tip: If you're having a late-night latte, use decaf espresso to avoid caffeine jitters.

HWC COFFEE Caffe Latte – A Perfectly Balanced Coffee Experience

If you're looking for a rich, smooth, and well-crafted caffe latte, HWC COFFEE delivers just that.

Our signature Coffee Latte is carefully prepared using high-quality specialty coffee beans, ensuring a perfect balance of bold espresso and creamy steamed milk.

With subtle hazelnut and cocoa aromas, this latte offers a luxurious yet comforting coffee experience that appeals to casual drinkers and coffee enthusiasts.

1. Premium Coffee Beans for Exceptional Flavour

HWC COFFEE is known for sourcing high-grade specialty coffee beans, which result in a more refined, aromatic, and flavourful espresso base.

This means every sip of their caffe latte delivers a rich coffee taste without overpowering bitterness.

2. Perfect Espresso-to-Milk Ratio

A well-made caffe latte is about balance, and HWC COFFEE gets it just right. Their latte has:

• A smooth and velvety texture from perfectly steamed milk
• A light microfoam layer that enhances the overall mouthfeel
• A mild yet bold espresso taste with hints of hazelnut and cocoa

3. Ideal for Both Coffee Enthusiasts and Beginners

If you love a classic, well-balanced latte, HWC COFFEE’s version won’t disappoint.

For those new to coffee, this latte is a gentle introduction to espresso-based drinks—not too strong, not too light.

Prefer it cold? HWC COFFEE’s Iced Caffe Latte is just as smooth and refreshing.

4. Affordable Indulgence

At RM11.90, HWC COFFEE’s Caffe Latte offers great value for a specialty coffee.

You get a premium-quality drink compared to high-end café prices without breaking the bank.

5. Conveniently Available

HWC COFFEE has multiple outlets across Malaysia (such as Sabah and Kuantan coffee shop), and you can also order your favorite Caffe Latte online for ultimate convenience.

Whether you need a morning boost, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a relaxing cup to unwind, place an order online and enjoy a high-quality latte for coffee delivery to your doorstep or ready for pickup.

Conclusion

The caffe latte remains one of Malaysia's most beloved coffee choices, thanks to its smooth, creamy texture and perfect balance of espresso and milk.

This versatile drink caters to every taste and preference, from a rich, full-bodied latte to a lighter, plant-based alternative. Its ability to be customised with different milk options, flavours, and textures makes it a favourite among casual coffee drinkers and enthusiasts.

If you love coffee, why not make your caffe latte at home? You can create a barista-quality latte in your kitchen with the right beans, milk, and technique.

Want to enjoy a professionally crafted latte? HWC COFFEE offers a perfectly balanced, premium-quality Caffe Latte that you can enjoy in-store or order online for ultimate convenience.

A caffe latte is  a daily comfort, a moment of relaxation, and a delicious coffee experience worth savouring.

Discover what makes HWC COFFEE a leading Malaysia specialty coffee chain—from premium beans to expertly crafted brews.