A standard cappuccino is an espresso-based beverage defined by a balanced composition of three equal parts: espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. This traditional ratio creates strong coffee flavor, creamy texture, and a light, airy cap. The terms “wet” and “dry” specify variations of this drink, indicating a shift in the ratio between liquid steamed milk and aerated milk foam. These descriptors allow customization of the texture and overall intensity by controlling the volume of the milk components.
The “Dry” Cappuccino: A Focus on Foam
A dry cappuccino has a significantly higher proportion of milk foam and minimal liquid steamed milk. Baristas achieve this variation by introducing more air into the milk during steaming, keeping the steam wand tip closer to the surface for a longer duration. The resulting foam is light, stiff, and meringue-like, with larger air bubbles creating a distinct layer on top of the espresso.
Because the espresso is less diluted by liquid milk, the coffee flavor is more intense and pronounced. The thick, airy foam also acts as an insulator, helping the drink retain its heat for a longer period. For those who enjoy a bold espresso taste with textural contrast, the dry cappuccino allows the coffee’s inherent bitterness to be more forward.
The “Wet” Cappuccino: Closer to a Latte
Conversely, a wet cappuccino contains a higher volume of liquid steamed milk and a thinner layer of foam. Baristas incorporate less air during the initial steaming phase, focusing instead on heating the milk to create smooth, velvety microfoam. This technique results in a creamy and silky milk texture that blends seamlessly with the espresso base.
The increased liquid milk content makes the wet cappuccino taste milder and noticeably sweeter, as the milk’s natural sugars are enhanced by the heat and integrated with the espresso. This profile is often compared to a latte, though a wet cappuccino still maintains a distinct, albeit thin, layer of foam, unlike a latte which is typically topped with only microfoam. The smoother texture and sweeter flavor appeal to those who prefer a less intense coffee experience.
Ordering and Customization
When ordering, simply specifying “wet” or “dry” communicates your preference for the milk-to-foam ratio. For those seeking the maximum amount of foam, the term “bone dry” requests a drink consisting of only espresso and foam, with no liquid steamed milk. On the opposite end, an “extra wet” cappuccino is a request for a drink that is nearly a latte, with only a whisper of foam on top.
Other customizations can influence the texture, such as the choice of milk. Non-fat milk tends to produce a drier, stiffer foam due to its protein structure, while whole milk creates a richer, creamier texture. Understanding these terms allows you to tailor your cappuccino to your preferred balance of texture, sweetness, and espresso intensity.