Espresso Macchiato
Global • Vegan
How to Make Espresso Macchiato (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Espresso Macchiato is a classic Italian coffee beverage that has gained immense popularity across the globe, including India’s thriving cafe culture. The name ‘macchiato’ means ‘marked’ or ‘stained’ in Italian, referencing the shot of espresso ‘marked’ with a dollop of milk foam. In India, coffee is deeply rooted in regions like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where filter coffee reigns supreme, but modern espresso-style drinks are now loved by urban youth for their intense flavor and energy boost. This recipe for Espresso Macchiato combines the authentic Italian method with a health-conscious approach, using quality coffee beans and minimal dairy to keep calories in check. The taste is bold and invigorating, with a delicate layer of creamy foam that balances the robust espresso. Perfect for a quick snack or a mid-day energy lift, it’s a refined alternative to sugary drinks and a delightful way to enjoy coffee the healthy way.
Ingredients(for 1 small cup (about 60 ml) macchiato)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh espresso coffee beans (Use high-quality Arabica or Robusta)
- 120 ml Water (Filtered, for brewing espresso)
- 2 tablespoons Low-fat milk (For frothing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Jaggery powder (Optional, for Indian flavor) - optional
- Pinch Ground cinnamon (Optional, for garnish) - optional
- Pinch Cardamom powder (Optional, for aromatic touch) - optional
- A few drops Stevia (For sugar-free version) - optional
- 2 cubes Ice cubes (Optional, for iced macchiato) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Grind the espresso coffee beans to a fine consistency using a coffee grinder.
2 minutes
Use freshly ground beans for maximum aroma and flavor.
- 2
Add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee to your espresso machine or stovetop moka pot.
1 minute
Ensure the coffee is evenly packed for a balanced extraction.
- 3
Pour 120 ml filtered water into the machine and brew the espresso.
5 minutes
Use filtered water to avoid bitterness and impurities.
- 4
Heat the low-fat milk in a small pan until just warm. Froth the milk using a milk frother or whisk until you get thick foam.
3 minutes
For best foam, use chilled milk and froth vigorously.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy espresso macchiato recipe avoids heavy cream and excess sugar, focusing on quality coffee and minimal dairy. It’s vegetarian and can be adapted for vegan diets. The use of Indian spices like cardamom and cinnamon adds antioxidants and flavor without calories. Enjoying this in moderation supports metabolism and is a smart choice for those tracking calories, weight loss, or managing blood sugar.
Espresso Macchiato is low in calories compared to creamy coffees and sugary drinks. Using low-fat milk keeps saturated fat in check, while espresso provides antioxidants and a natural energy boost. Coffee is a source of magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins. By skipping sugar or using jaggery or stevia, you reduce the glycemic load, making this drink suitable for most diets. The macchiato’s small serving size also helps moderate caffeine intake.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly ground coffee beans for the best crema and flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Froth cold milk for thicker, longer-lasting foam.
- 💡Tip 3: Experiment with spices like cardamom for an Indian twist.
- 💡Tip 4: Adjust milk foam to taste—less for a true macchiato, more for creaminess.
- 💡Tip 5: Clean your espresso maker regularly to avoid bitterness.
Storage & Serving
Best served fresh. Can be kept for up to 1 hour at room temperature. Not recommended for long storage.
Best served: Mid-morning snack or afternoon pick-me-up
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 7.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3.0 g |
| Total Fat | 1.8 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugars | 2.8 g |
| Sodium | 30.0 mg |
| Potassium | 120.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 7.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 40.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Calcium | 55.0 mg |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
| Magnesium | 10.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 38.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.2 µg |
| Folate | 5.0 µg |
