Cappuccino and mocha are both popular espresso-based beverages, but they have several key differences in terms of ingredients, flavor, and presentation. Here’s a comparison between the two:

Origins

Cappuccino

Italy: The cappuccino has its roots in Italian coffee culture, with its name derived from the resemblance of the drink’s color to the brown robes of the Capuchin monks.

Mocha

Yemen: The mocha is named after the port city of Mocha in Yemen, which was once a major center for the coffee trade. The term “mocha” originally referred to a specific type of coffee bean with a distinct chocolatey flavor profile. Over time, the mocha has evolved into the chocolate-flavored espresso drink that we know today.

Ingredients

Cappuccino

Espresso: Typically, a cappuccino has a single or double shot of espresso.
Steamed milk: The espresso is topped with steamed milk to create a rich, creamy texture.
Milk foam: A layer of frothy milk foam is added on top, which gives the cappuccino its distinctive appearance and mouthfeel.

Mocha

Espresso: Like a cappuccino, a mocha also starts with a single or double shot of espresso.
Chocolate: A mocha contains chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, which sets it apart from a cappuccino.
Steamed milk: Steamed milk is added to the espresso and chocolate mixture, giving it a creamy texture.
Whipped cream: Many mochas are topped with whipped cream, although this is optional.

Flavor

Cappuccino

A cappuccino has a balanced flavor profile, with the bitterness of the espresso balanced by the sweetness and creaminess of the steamed milk and milk foam. The foam adds a light, airy texture to the drink.

Mocha

A mocha has a richer, sweeter taste due to the addition of chocolate. The flavor is a combination of bold espresso, chocolate, and creamy milk. The whipped cream topping (if used) can add an extra layer of sweetness and decadence to the beverage. The chocolate in the mocha appeals to those who prefer a sweeter, dessert-like coffee drink.

Presentation

Cappuccino

A traditional cappuccino is served in a 6-ounce cup with equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam. Baristas may create latte art on the foam, such as hearts, rosettas, or other designs, adding an aesthetic touch to the drink.

Mocha

Mochas are typically served in larger cups or glasses, ranging from 8 to 12 ounces, due to the added ingredients. The presentation may include a layer of whipped cream on top, which can be garnished with a drizzle of chocolate syrup, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even chocolate shavings.

To summarize, a cappuccino is a classic espresso-based beverage that offers a balanced flavor profile with the bitterness of espresso complemented by the sweetness and creaminess of steamed milk and milk foam. A mocha, on the other hand, is a sweeter, dessert-like coffee drink that combines espresso with chocolate and steamed milk, often topped with whipped cream. While both drinks start with a base of espresso and steamed milk, adding chocolate and whipped cream in a mocha sets it apart from a cappuccino regarding flavor, sweetness, and presentation.