National Cappuccino Day on November 8th serves up a deliciously frothy, hot cup of cappuccino, perfect for a chilly morning, a cozy chat with friends, or simply savoring a creamy, comforting drink.

A traditional cappuccino is an Italian coffee beverage crafted from espresso, hot milk, and steamed milk foam. Its rich and balanced flavor has made it a favorite around the world.

The term “cappuccino” is derived from the Capuchin friars. It originates from the Italian word cappuccio, meaning “hood” or “cover.” Interestingly, the drink wasn’t named after the friars’ headwear but rather after the color of their hooded robes, which resembles the warm, tan-brown color of a well-made cappuccino. The Capuchin friars are an order within the Catholic Church, branching from the Franciscans.

In 1945, Achille Gaggia revolutionized coffee brewing with the invention of the modern espresso machine, helping to further popularize cappuccinos.

• Mid-1990s: Cappuccino became more widely available in North America as upscale coffee shops began appearing.
• Late 1990s to Early 2000s: Cappuccinos gained immense popularity in the U.S. alongside the rise of the American coffee culture.
• 21st Century: Fast-food chains introduced a shortcut version of the cappuccino, making it more accessible to the masses.

Achieving the perfect cappuccino requires careful attention to the milk-steaming process to ensure the ideal foam-to-milk ratio, making it one of the more challenging espresso-based drinks to master. Skilled baristas often elevate the experience by creating artistic designs in the milk foam, turning each cup into a small work of art.

National Cappuccino Day Timeline​

​1683​: ​​The early cappuccino was born

The earliest versions of cappuccino were recorded during the Battle of Vienna.

​​1901: ​​Espresso machines patented

​​Luigi Bezzera of Milan patented the first espresso machine, though different than today’s espresso machines.

​​1930s: ​​”Cappuccino” defined

​​As we call it today, this drink was first documented in Italy as a coffee topped with whipped cream and sprinkled with cinnamon or chocolate.

​​1950s: ​Cappuccinos take on a new form

​​The first small cups appear alongside milk-steaming espresso machines.

​​1990s: ​​Coffee shops become a hot trend

​​As the coffee shop trend catches on, so does the love and consumption of cappuccinos.