National Macchiato Day

Next Wednesday, 19 November 2025

National Macchiato Day observed on November 19th every year is the most ideal excuse for coffee connoisseurs to dive into the delightful blend of bold espresso and a richly, luxurious foamed milk. 

Whether you are an avid lover of the classic espresso macchiato or you enjoy it sweet with a hint of caramel, national macchiato day gives us an opportunity to cherish the artistry behind every cup. 

The inaugural National Macchiato Day was celebrated on November 19, 2015, when coffee enthusiasts worldwide shared their love for this tasty beverage on social media. What began as a lighthearted online event soon evolved into an annual celebration, honoring macchiatos in all their delicious variations.

cup of macchiato

What is A Macchiato?

The word “macchiato” means “stained” or “spotted” in Italian, which refers to how the beverage is made. A traditional espresso macchiato is a shot of espresso that’s “stained” with a small amount of milk, balancing the bold coffee flavor with a touch of creaminess. Latte macchiatos, on the other hand, reverse the ratio by adding a shot of espresso to a glass of steamed milk, resulting in a milder, layered drink.

a macchiato with leaf art

History of the Macchiato

The history of the macchiato dates back to the 1930s when baristas in Italy started adding a splash of milk to espresso to create a smoother, milder version of the bold coffee. 

This variation of coffee quickly took coffee lovers by storm who enjoyed the balance of flavors without losing the boldness of the espresso. 

In the 1980s, the macchiato evolved further in the United States with the introduction of the caramel macchiato and this sweeter version made with espresso, steamed milk and caramel drizzle quickly became a popular beverage.

Coffee chains like Starbucks helped popularize it globally in the 1990s and today people all over the world enjoy macchiato. 

a glass of macchiato with heart and whipped cream

Most Popular Macchiato Variations

  • Espresso Macchiato features a bold shot of espresso with just a touch of milk.

espresso macchiato

  • Latte Macchiato is made by pouring a shot of espresso over steamed milk.

latte macchiato

  • Caramel Macchiato combines espresso, steamed milk, vanilla syrup, and caramel drizzle for a sweet taste.

caramel macchiato

  • Cortado blends equal parts espresso and steamed milk for a smoother, balanced flavor.

cortado

Celebrating National Macchiato Day

The best way to celebrate National Macchiato Day is by visiting your favorite café to enjoy a cup of classic macchiato or other flavors like caramel or vanilla. 

You can even try to brew your own macchiato at home with an espresso machine or a moka pot and add syrups to customize your drink according to your preferences. 

Host a macchiato tasting party with friends to explore different styles and flavors while learning about coffee preparation.

National Macchiato Day celebrates the delicious variety of macchiatos, from bold espresso to sweet caramel.

macchiato in an aesthetic background

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National Macchiato Day - Next years

Thursday, 19 November 2026

Friday, 19 November 2027

Sunday, 19 November 2028

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