Cappuccino vs. Coffee: What’s the Difference and Which Is Better?

Coffee and cappuccinos are two of the most popular beverages in the world, each with their own dedicated following. While they share a common base ingredient—coffee beans—the way these drinks are prepared and consumed results in some major differences.

In this guide, I’ll dive deep into the differences between regular coffee and cappuccinos, exploring everything from brewing methods and flavors to caffeine content and cultural influences. Get ready to become an expert on these beloved brews!

What Is Coffee?

At its core, coffee is a brewed beverage made from roasted coffee beans, which are the seeds found inside “stone fruit” from certain coffee plant varieties. The art of coffee brewing involves extracting the aromatic compounds and flavor notes from these beans after they’re roasted through various methods.

The most common way to enjoy coffee in the United States is through a drip coffee maker, which automates the brewing process. However, drip coffee’s origins can be traced back to the 1800s, when different manual brewing devices like the French press and pour over cones were first introduced. The first commercially successful drip coffee maker, the Geometric Coffee Maker, was patented in 1954 by Gottlob Widmann. This paved the way for the rise of automated drip machines in households across America.

How Is Coffee Made?

While drip machines are undoubtedly the most widespread method for brewing coffee, there’s a wide variety of techniques that coffee enthusiasts employ to extract those sought-after flavors from their beans. Each method has its own unique characteristics and can highlight different aspects of the coffee’s taste profile.

Drip Machine: This is the most common and convenient way to make coffee at home. You simply add ground coffee to a filter basket, add water to the reservoir, hit brew, and let the machine do the rest. The hot water is distributed over the grounds, allowing the flavors to extract as the coffee drips into a carafe below. Drip coffee tends to strike a balance between highlighting the bean’s origin flavors and its roast characteristics.

French Press: A French press, also known as a press pot, is an immersion brewing method where the coarsely ground coffee steeps directly in hot water for several minutes. After the desired brew time, a plunger with a metal filter is pressed down, separating the grounds from the coffee. French press coffee tends to have a richer, fuller-bodied flavor that emphasizes the roast characteristics of the beans.

Pour Over Cone (V60): With this manual brew method, hot water is slowly poured over a bed of ground coffee in a cone-shaped filter. The water passes through the grounds and into a vessel below, resulting in a clean, bright cup that highlights the coffee’s origin flavors and acidity.

Chemex: Similar to the pour over cone, the Chemex is a stylish glass vessel with a conical top. You place a thicker filter in the cone, though, which pulls out more of the coffee oils and fine coffee grounds than a traditional pour over cone. The brewing process involves carefully pouring water over the grounds in a spiral motion, allowing the coffee to slowly drip into the bottom of the Chemex. Chemex brews are known for their clarity and nuanced flavor profiles, which include bright acidity and fruitiness.

Aeropress: This compact, portable device uses immersion and pressure to produce a concentrated shot of coffee, similar to espresso. Grounds are steeped in hot water, and then a plunger is pressed down to force the coffee through a paper filter into your cup. Aeropress coffee can have a rich, smooth body with low acidity. Much like other immersion methods, the mouthfeel is thick, and the flavor is robust.

Clever Dripper: This hybrid brew method combines elements of immersion and drip brewing. The grounds are steeped in hot water like a French press, but a paper filter and a plunger separates them from the coffee as it drains into a carafe below. The result is a clean, well-balanced cup with qualities of both immersion and drip brewing.

Cold Brew: As the name implies, cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground beans in cold or room temperature water for an extended period (usually 12 to 24 hours). This slow, low-temperature extraction process results in a smooth, low-acidity coffee concentrate that can be diluted with water or milk and served over ice.

What Is a Cappuccino?

While regular coffee focuses solely on extracting flavors from coffee beans, a cappuccino is an espresso-based beverage that combines the bold taste of espresso with steamed milk and velvety milk foam. This Italian classic has a rich history deeply intertwined with the development of coffee culture across the globe.

The origins of the cappuccino can be traced back to the early 20th century in Italy, where it was initially known as a “kapuziner” after the distinctive brown hoods worn by Capuchin friars. As the drink gained popularity, it became a staple in Italian coffee houses and a symbol of the country’s vibrant café culture.

When the cappuccino made its way to America in the 1950s and 60s, it was initially met with skepticism by a country accustomed to drip coffee. However, as more Italian immigrants opened cafés and espresso bars, the allure of this frothy, indulgent beverage gradually won over American coffee enthusiasts.

Today, the cappuccino is a beloved staple in coffee shops throughout the U.S., representing the perfect marriage of espresso’s bold intensity with the creamy richness of steamed milk.

How Do You Make a Cappuccino?

Crafting the perfect cappuccino is an art form that requires skill, precision, and a deep understanding of the interplay between espresso and milk. While the basic components are simple—espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam—the execution is far more complicated.

The first step is pulling a shot of high-quality espresso, which involves forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans at high pressure. This concentrated shot forms the base of the cappuccino and provides its signature bold, slightly bitter flavor.

Next, cold milk is aerated and steamed until it reaches a velvety, micro-foamed consistency. This process not only heats the milk but also incorporates tiny bubbles that create the cappuccino’s luxurious, creamy texture.

Once the espresso and steamed milk are prepared, the barista carefully combines them in a specific ratio. Traditionally, the ratio is one part espresso, one part steamed milk, and one part milk foam. The foam is gently poured over the top, creating a thick, frothy cap that not only looks inviting but also helps insulate the beverage and preserve its temperature and aroma.

To finish, the cappuccino is sometimes dusted with cocoa powder or cinnamon, adding a subtle aroma and visual flair.

Coffee vs. Cappuccino: What’s the Difference?

Now that we’ve covered the basics of each beverage, let’s dive into the key differences between regular coffee and cappuccinos in several key areas.

Preparation

The preparation processes for regular coffee and cappuccinos are wildly different, both in terms of the techniques involved and the level of skill required.

With regular coffee, especially if you’re using a drip coffee machine, the brewing process is relatively straightforward: measure out the desired amount of ground beans, add hot water, and let the extraction occur. While some methods like pour over or French press require more hands-on involvement, even novice coffee enthusiasts can produce an outstanding cup of regular coffee with minimal practice.

Cappuccinos, on the other hand, involve a multi-step process that demands precise technique and a deep understanding of espresso and milk steaming. Pulling a proper shot of espresso alone requires dialing in factors like grind size, dose, tamp pressure, brewing pressure, and shot time to achieve the desired flavor extraction. Then, the milk must be steamed to the perfect temperature and texture, incorporating just the right amount of microfoam.

Finally, the espresso and milk components must be combined in the correct proportions, with the milk foam gently poured over the top to create that signature thick, creamy cap. It’s a delicate balance that can take practice to master.

In terms of convenience, regular coffee is undoubtedly the winner. With automatic drip machines or simple immersion methods like a French press, you can have a hot cup of coffee in minutes with minimal effort and experience. Cappuccinos, however, require special espresso equipment and a more involved preparation process, making them better suited for coffee shops or dedicated home baristas.

Ease of Preparation

With regular coffee, the barrier to entry is relatively low. Even with a basic drip machine, you can achieve a decent cup by simply using the right coffee-to-water ratio and fresh, high-quality beans. Adjusting grind size, water temperature, and brew time can further refine the flavors, but the learning curve is minimal.

Cappuccinos, on the other hand, present a much steeper learning curve. Pulling a great shot of espresso requires dialing in numerous variables, from grind size and dose to tamp pressure and extraction time. Small deviations in any of these factors can result in a sour, under-extracted shot or bitter, over-extracted coffee.

Then there’s the art of milk steaming. Getting that perfect microfoam texture takes practice, and even slight variations in technique can mean the difference between a beautifully textured cappuccino and a subpar, bubbly mess.

In my experience, the first time I used a drip machine, I made a pretty decent cup of coffee. However, it took me at least 20 attempts before I could consistently produce a truly great cappuccino at home. Espresso is simply far more involved and has more brewing parameters to get right compared to regular coffee brewing. Espresso in general is much more finicky due to the short brew time of just 25 to 30 seconds.

The learning curve for cappuccinos can be mitigated somewhat by investing in a high-quality, automatic espresso machine. While these machines take some of the guesswork out of shot pulling and milk steaming, they still require some technique and rarely match the quality of what you’d get from a manual lever espresso maker like the Flair Pro 2 or a good espresso machine that lets you tinker with brewing parameters.

In my opinion, a semi-automatic machine like the Rancilio Silvia Pro strikes the best balance between convenience and quality for home cappuccino enthusiasts.

Flavor

When it comes to flavor, regular coffee and cappuccinos offer distinctly different taste experiences, each with its own unique characteristics and nuances.

Regular coffee, whether brewed via drip, pour over, or immersion methods, showcases a wide range of flavor notes that can vary dramatically depending on the bean origin, roast level, and brewing technique. From bright, fruity flavors to deep, chocolatey notes, regular coffee offers a diverse flavor spectrum that allows enthusiasts to explore and experiment.

There’s also an ongoing debate about whether regular coffee or espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos offer more flavor customization. On one hand, espresso has numerous variables that can be tweaked to dial in the desired flavor profile, from grind size and dose to extraction time and pressure. This level of control allows for fine-tuning and can produce incredibly nuanced, complex flavors when done well.

On the other hand, regular coffee has a multitude of brewing methods to choose from, each of which can highlight different aspects of the bean’s flavor. Pour over techniques tend to accentuate origin characteristics and acidity, while immersion methods like French press emphasize body and roast notes.

In my opinion, while espresso might have more depth and intensity of flavor when prepared perfectly, regular coffee offers a broader range of flavor possibilities due to the variety of brewing methods available.

As for cappuccinos, specifically, their flavor is largely defined by the quality of the espresso shot and the harmonious balance between the coffee’s bold intensity and the rich, creamy notes imparted by the steamed milk. A well-made cappuccino should deliver a perfect interplay of espresso’s robustness and the sweet, velvety texture of the milk, creating a decadent, satisfying flavor experience.

Caffeine Content

One of the key differences between regular coffee and cappuccinos lies in their caffeine content, which can have significant implications for those sensitive to the stimulant effects of caffeine.

A typical 8-ounce cup of regular drip coffee contains between 95 and 130 milligrams of caffeine, though this can vary based on factors like bean variety, roast level, and brewing method. For example, a light roast coffee brewed using a pour over method may have a higher caffeine content than a darker roast brewed in a French press.

In contrast, a standard cappuccino made with a single shot of espresso—about 1 ounce—contains around 65 milligrams of caffeine. It’s important to note that caffeine content can vary significantly based on the specific espresso blend used and the shot volume.

For those looking to limit their caffeine intake, regular drip coffee may be the more controlled option, as it’s easier to adjust the brew strength and serving size. With cappuccinos, it’s essential to be mindful of the espresso shot volume and any additional shots added, as these can quickly ramp up the caffeine levels.

Ounce for ounce, though, a regular coffee will have about double the caffeine of a single-shot cappuccino.

Equipment Needed

The equipment required for brewing regular coffee versus making cappuccinos is another area where these two beverages differ substantially, both in terms of complexity and cost.

For regular coffee, the equipment needed can range from relatively simple and inexpensive to more elaborate and pricey, depending on your brewing method of choice.

At the most basic level, you can brew decent drip coffee with an automatic drip machine, which you can buy for as little as $20 for a basic model or up to $400 for a high-end drip coffee maker like the Breville Precision Brewer (which I highly recommend).

Other common coffee brewing equipment includes the following:

• French press ($20-$50)
• Pour over cone and filters ($20-$40)
• Chemex ($40-$50)
• Aeropress ($30-$40)

Note that for pour over methods, you should also invest in a good gooseneck kettle, which can cost between $30 and $60.

While some of these manual brewing devices may require a bit more technique, they’re generally affordable and easy to maintain.

In contrast, making cappuccinos at home requires an espresso machine, which is a significant investment both in terms of upfront cost and ongoing maintenance.

Entry-level espresso machines can start around $200, but these basic models often struggle to produce high-quality shots and come nowhere close to the microfoam you need for a good cappuccino. For a true enthusiast-level machine capable of pulling great shots and steaming milk properly, you’re looking at a much higher price point, usually close to $1,000 unless you go with a manual lever machine (which is MUCH harder to master).

One of the best home espresso machines I recommend for coffee connoisseurs is the Rancilio Silvia Pro, which retails for around $2,000. While this may seem steep, it’s a semi-automatic machine that allows for a high degree of control over shot parameters and steam wand performance, producing results on par with many commercial machines.

Beyond the machine itself, you’ll also need a high-quality coffee grinder ($200-$600+) to ensure a consistent, even grind for optimal espresso extraction. With automated espresso machines, you’ll also need maintenance every now and then, whereas French presses and pour over cones will literally never need any maintenance other than cleaning.

So, while you can start enjoying regular coffee with a relatively modest investment, crafting high-quality cappuccinos at home requires a serious commitment in terms of both equipment costs and the time/effort required to learn proper technique.

Popularity

In terms of popularity, regular drip coffee remains the clear winner among American consumers, with cappuccinos and other espresso-based drinks occupying a smaller but dedicated niche.

Based on our coffee consumption statistics, a staggering 41% of Americans who make coffee at home use a drip machine, making it by far the most popular brewing method. This is likely due to the convenience and ease of use that drip machines offer, as well as their relatively low cost compared to other brewing methods.

In contrast, only 9% of at-home coffee drinkers reported using an espresso machine at home, underscoring the more niche appeal of espresso-based beverages like cappuccinos.

However, it’s important to note that while cappuccinos may not be as widely consumed at home, they remain a popular choice at coffee shops and cafés across the country.

Influence on Coffee Culture

Both regular coffee and cappuccinos have played significant roles in shaping coffee culture, albeit in different ways and on different scales.

Regular coffee, especially drip-brewed coffee, has been deeply woven into the fabric of American daily life for decades. The iconic image of a brewing pot of coffee in the morning, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma, is a cultural touchstone that resonates with millions of households across the country.

Drip coffee’s influence extends far beyond the home, however. It has been a staple in offices, diners, and social gatherings, serving as a catalyst for conversation, productivity, and camaraderie. The act of “grabbing a cup of coffee” has become a universal shorthand for taking a break, catching up with friends or colleagues, and savoring a moment of respite in our fast-paced lives.

On a larger scale, the rise of coffee shop chains like Starbucks has transformed the way we consume and think about coffee. These establishments have elevated coffee from a mere beverage to an experience, complete with their own lingo, customization options, and lifestyle branding. They’ve also played a significant role in introducing the public to more diverse brewing methods and specialty coffee offerings.

Cappuccinos, on the other hand, have had a more modest influence on American coffee culture, primarily within the realm of cafés and espresso bars. While not as ubiquitous as regular coffee, cappuccinos have come to represent a certain level of sophistication and indulgence.

In Italy, the birthplace of the cappuccino, the drink has long been a cornerstone of the country’s vibrant café culture. Sipping a perfectly crafted cappuccino while people-watching at an outdoor café is an integral part of the Italian experience, a ritual steeped in tradition and leisurely enjoyment.

As cappuccinos gained popularity in the United States, they helped fuel the growth of the specialty coffee movement, which emphasized high-quality beans, expert preparation, and a deeper appreciation for the art of coffee-making. With their complex blend of espresso and steamed milk, cappuccinos became a symbol of this more refined, artisanal approach to coffee.

Today, the influence of cappuccinos can be seen in the proliferation of independent coffee shops and third-wave cafés, where skilled baristas take pride in their ability to craft intricate latte art and perfectly textured microfoam. These establishments have elevated the cappuccino (and other espresso-based drinks) to a level of culinary artistry, attracting a dedicated following of coffee enthusiasts seeking out the best examples of this time-honored Italian tradition.

Health Benefits and Risks

Both regular coffee and cappuccinos offer potential health benefits and risks, with some key differences worth considering.

From a nutritional standpoint, regular black coffee is relatively low in calories and free from added sugars or fats. A typical 8-ounce cup of black coffee contains only around 5 calories and provides a range of beneficial compounds, including antioxidants and polyphenols, which have been linked to potential health benefits like improved cognitive function, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, and protection against certain types of cancer.

However, it’s important to note that the health benefits of coffee can vary depending on the brewing method used. Coffee brewed without a paper filter, such as in a French press or Turkish coffee, retains more of the naturally occurring oils present in coffee beans. Coffee oils like cafestol and kahweol have been associated with increased cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol.

Espresso is almost always brewed without a paper filter, so it more often has normal concentrations of these coffee oils. If you choose a method of brewing for regular coffee that uses a filter—like standard drip coffee, but especially Chemex, which uses an extra thick paper filter—the amount of coffee oils is dramatically reduced, making a technically healthier cup.

Cappuccinos also contain additional ingredients beyond just coffee, namely milk and often sugar or flavored syrups. While milk provides valuable nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamins, it also contributes fat and calories to the beverage. A standard 12-ounce cappuccino made with whole milk can contain upwards of 120 calories and 6 grams of fat, not including any added sweeteners or syrups.

From a caffeine perspective, both regular coffee and cappuccinos can provide a moderate dose, which has been linked to potential benefits like increased alertness, improved mood, and enhanced physical and cognitive performance (in moderation). However, as discussed earlier, the caffeine content in cappuccinos can vary significantly based on the number of espresso shots used and the serving size.

Overall, both regular coffee and cappuccinos can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation and with an awareness of their respective nutritional profiles. For those seeking the potential health benefits of coffee without added calories or fats, regular black coffee may be the better choice. However, cappuccinos can still be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, especially when made with lower-fat milk alternatives and minimal added sweeteners.

Cost

The cost of regular coffee and cappuccinos can vary widely depending on whether you’re brewing at home or purchasing from a coffee shop or café. In general, however, regular coffee tends to be the more cost-effective option, especially when made at home.

To make a standard 12-ounce cup of coffee, you’ll use around 21 grams of ground coffee. To make a 12-ounce cappuccino, you’d need a double shot of espresso, which would use around 30 to 35 grams of ground coffee. Regular coffee is more affordable in terms of beans alone, especially if you consider the grams-to-milligrams-of-caffeine ratio you get in return.

You will need to invest in paper filters for most regular coffee brewing methods, but the cost is unlikely to outweigh the difference in the amount of coffee you’ll go through.

The cost of making cappuccinos at home can also be significantly higher due to the required equipment investment. As mentioned earlier, a quality espresso machine like the Rancilio Silvia Pro can set you back around $2,000 upfront, which pales in comparison to the $20 to $30 you’d spend on a good French press or pour over set-up.

When purchasing from a café or coffee shop, there’s also a small cost difference in favor of regular coffee. A regular drip coffee typically ranges from $3 to $5, depending on the establishment and size. In contrast, a cappuccino will usually cost $4 to $6 or more, especially at higher-end specialty coffee shops.

Of course, the higher cost of cappuccinos at coffee shops is reflective of the skill, labor, and high-quality ingredients required to produce a truly excellent espresso-based beverage. But for those on a tighter budget or looking for a more cost-effective daily coffee fix, regular drip coffee is undoubtedly the more economical choice.

Sustainability

In today’s environmentally conscious world, the sustainability of our daily habits and consumer choices has become an increasingly important consideration. When it comes to regular coffee and cappuccinos, there are some key differences in their environmental footprints worth exploring.

One of the primary sustainability disadvantages of regular coffee is the prevalence of paper filters used in many brewing methods, such as drip machines, pour over cones, and Chemex brewers. Paper is biodegradable or compostable, but you still produce waste every time you brew a batch of coffee

It’s worth noting that some regular coffee brewing methods, such as French press or Turkish coffee, are unfiltered and produce no waste other than the spent coffee grounds.

On the cappuccino side of things, the sustainability equation becomes a bit more complex. Espresso machines, which are essential for making cappuccinos, tend to have a larger environmental footprint due to their energy consumption, water usage, and the need for regular maintenance and eventual replacement. But espresso is unfiltered and doesn’t require the use of paper filters.

Another consideration is milk waste. Cappuccinos require steamed milk, and any unused milk may end up being discarded, contributing to food waste. Coffee shops and cafés that prioritize sustainability often have systems in place to minimize milk waste, but this is still a potential issue for home cappuccino enthusiasts.

Ultimately, both regular coffee and cappuccinos can be enjoyed in a more sustainable manner by making conscious choices about sourcing, brewing methods, and waste reduction. For those prioritizing a lower environmental impact, regular drip coffee brewed with a reusable filter and certified sustainable beans may be the greener option overall.

Tips for Making Better Coffee

Regardless of your preferred brew method, there are a few key tips that can help elevate your regular coffee game at home:

1. Invest in a quality burr grinder: Freshly ground beans make a world of difference in terms of flavor and aroma. Opt for a burr grinder over a blade grinder for a consistent, even grind.
2. Use the right coffee-to-water ratio: A common guideline is 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water, but it’s far better to be precise with a good coffee scale and weigh by volume. Water-to-coffee ratios between 15:1 and 17:1 usually make for delicious coffee.
3. Pay attention to water temperature: For optimal extraction, your water should be between 195 and 205 degrees (F). Many drip machines don’t quite reach this range, so consider using a gooseneck kettle for pour over or French press brewing.
4. Experiment with different brew methods: Each method (drip, pour over, French press, etc.) will highlight different flavor characteristics in your coffee. Try a few and see what suits your taste preferences.
5. Store your beans properly: Keep your beans in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and moisture. Proper storage will help preserve their freshness and flavor for longer.

Tips for Making a Better Cappuccino

Crafting a truly excellent cappuccino at home takes practice, but these tips can help you get started:

1. Invest in a quality espresso machine: Look for a semi-automatic or automatic machine with adjustable settings for shot volume, pressure, and temperature.
2. Use freshly roasted, high-quality coffee: The quality of your beans has a huge impact on the flavor of your espresso and, ultimately, your cappuccino.
3. Dial in your grind size and dose: Experiment with different grind settings and shot volumes to find the perfect balance of flavor and extraction for your espresso.
4. Master milk steaming: Practice your milk steaming technique to achieve that velvety, micro-foamed texture. Pay attention to the temperature, aeration, and incorporation of foam.
5. Nail the layering: When combining the espresso and milk, gently pour the steamed milk into the espresso, then top with the foamed milk for that signature cappuccino look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make cappuccinos without an espresso machine?

While an espresso machine is the traditional and preferred method for making cappuccinos, there are some alternatives for those without access to one. You can use a stovetop moka pot or an Aeropress to brew a strong, concentrated coffee shot as a substitute for espresso. Then, froth milk using a hand frother or frother wand to create the foamed milk component. The results won’t be quite the same as a true cappuccino from an espresso machine, but it can provide a reasonable approximation in a pinch.

Is it healthier to drink regular coffee or cappuccinos?

From a nutritional standpoint, regular black coffee is generally considered the healthier choice compared to cappuccinos. Black coffee is low in calories and free from added sugars or fats, while cappuccinos contain milk and often sweeteners, adding calories, fat, and sugar to the beverage. However, both can be part of a healthy diet in moderation. If opting for a cappuccino, choose low-fat milk and minimal sweeteners to reduce the calorie and sugar content.

What is the best milk alternative for cappuccinos?

While whole cow’s milk is the traditional choice for cappuccinos, there are several plant-based milk alternatives that can work well for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. One of the best options include oat milk, which froths nicely and has a creamy texture, but almond milk and soy milk can work as well. Coconut milk can also be used, but its higher fat content may affect the foam’s texture and the overall taste of your cappuccino. Ultimately, it comes down to personal taste preferences and how well the milk alternative steams and holds foam.